Federal agencies would coordinate quantum research, technology, and workforce plans

The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology must update the National Quantum Strategy, and agencies must report how they aligned their work with it. The strategy covers quantum research, manufacturing, commercialization, deployment, and partnerships with U.S. industry. Related agency plans cover sensing, networking, supply chains, workforce training, and international cooperation. Agencies must act within their existing legal authority and available funding. Several plans may recommend or explore future actions rather than put those actions into effect. The strategy is due within 180 days of June 22, 2026. Agencies must report within 30 days after the updated strategy is published. Other required plans are due within 60 to 210 days of the order.

The Assistant to the President for Science and Technology must coordinate an effort to develop a large quantum computer for scientific applications, while agencies support related research and testing. The effort aims to deliver at least one quantum computer to a Department of Energy facility and make it available to researchers when possible. It also covers commercial and national-security applications, quantum sensors, and quantum networks. The computer is an intended goal, not a guaranteed delivery. Private-sector partnership models and commercial incentives must be explored or planned before any such arrangements are made. Agencies must provide resources only to the extent practicable and subject to available appropriations. The Energy Secretary must identify technical specifications within 90 days. Other planning and assessment actions are generally due within 180 days. The Defense Secretary must prioritize at least three sensor projects for fielding by September 30, 2028.

Federal agencies must take steps to support domestic quantum manufacturing, protect the field from security threats, build the workforce, and improve cooperation with allied countries. The directions cover federal research and grants, quantum companies and suppliers, academic and industry partners, workers, and countries considered like-minded or countries of concern. The order permits proposed staffing, prizes, advance market commitments, grants, and other tools but does not itself provide money or require every proposed tool. Security measures must protect sensitive information without unduly harming quantum innovation. International and trade actions include recommendations and coordination, not automatic changes to trade or export rules. Several supply-chain, workforce, and international plans are due within 90 to 210 days. Security, workforce, and international reports have deadlines ranging from 60 days to one year, with some reports required annually afterward.