White House expected to direct intelligence agencies to protect quantum research from foreign threats

Key Points:

• A forthcoming executive order will direct the FBI and intelligence agencies to enhance protections against foreign espionage targeting U.S. quantum research, with possible signing as early as Monday.
• The order will also assign the Energy and Defense departments to develop a quantum computer for scientific research and instruct the Commerce Department to expand federal investments in quantum computing companies.
• Officials anticipate increased foreign adversary interest, particularly from China, in U.S. quantum research due to its strategic importance in economic competition and national security, especially as the threat of quantum computers breaking current encryption grows.
• Experts emphasize the need for robust counterintelligence measures, including insider-threat programs, stricter reviews of personnel and vendors, and increased threat-sharing with academic and commercial labs.
• The order underscores the U.S. government's commitment to leading in quantum technology development and defense, signaling to private investors a strategic priority that could accelerate innovation and commercialization.