Proposed Legislation Calls for Prioritization of Quantum Technology by Department of Defense

Last week, U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and U.S. Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-NY) introduced the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act to speed up the implementation of quantum technologies within the Department of Defense (DoD). Their goal with this legislation is to counter China’s advancements in this area and consolidate existing efforts that lack a unified approach in bringing these capabilities to soldiers on time.

Blackburn emphasized the importance of the U.S. advancing quantum technology to compete globally, especially since China aims to lead the industry by 2049. The legislation aims to help the DoD maximize its developmental resources and leverage the work being done at the local level in places like Chattanooga and Oak Ridge. The department will appoint a Principal Quantum Advisor to coordinate the understanding and deployment of relevant technologies such as quantum sensing, computing, annealing, communications, and more.

Stefanik expressed pride in leading this critical legislation to ensure the U.S. maintains a quantum technological advantage over adversaries like China. The impact of quantum technology on national security will be significant, and immediate action is needed to ensure the U.S. is the first nation to achieve quantum advantage. Proponents of the bill, including companies like D-Wave, IBM, and the Quantum Industry Coalition, see this move as beneficial for national security and essential for addressing complex issues facing the future of the DoD.