U.S. Government Accelerates Quantum Tech: Aims for Practical Quantum Computer by 2028 to Address Encryption Threats

July 12, 2026

Fast Company USA

Overview

Quantum computing is nearing a practical application breakthrough, demonstrating superiority over classical machines in fields like chemistry and drug discovery. The challenge lies in scaling qubits and implementing robust quantum error correction for fault-tolerant systems. Recent US government executive orders are designed to accelerate quantum innovation, mandating a quantum computer deployment for scientific research by 2028 and preparing for future quantum-enabled encryption attacks.

In Depth

Key Findings

Quantum computing is rapidly approaching a significant breakthrough for practical applications, moving beyond mere laboratory experiments to demonstrate superiority over classical machines in valuable fields such as chemistry and drug discovery. Notably, the U.S. government has issued executive orders to accelerate quantum innovation, aiming to deploy a quantum computer for scientific research by 2028 and proactively preparing for potential quantum-enabled attacks on current encryption standards.

Technical / Clinical Details

The primary challenges hindering the practical deployment of quantum computers involve scaling qubits and establishing robust quantum error correction (QEC) to mitigate errors. While current noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) devices show promise in specific tasks, achieving true ‘quantum advantage’ for complex problems necessitates a large number of stable qubits coupled with resilient QEC systems. The U.S. presidential executive orders form part of a broader national strategy to expedite quantum technology development and preemptively address the potential for quantum computers to compromise existing cryptographic systems. This includes promoting the transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and developing roadmaps for integrating quantum technologies across federal agencies.

Background & Context

Quantum computing holds the potential to deliver disruptive impacts across various industries, including drug discovery, materials science, financial modeling, and artificial intelligence. However, its inherent technical complexity makes R&D highly challenging. As nations worldwide compete for leadership in quantum technology, the U.S. government is bolstering its investments and policy support to secure national security and economic supremacy. The standardization of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) represents a critical step in shaping the future of cybersecurity.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The target of deploying practical quantum computers for scientific research by 2028 signifies a transition of quantum technology from theoretical possibility to concrete implementation. This will likely accelerate the development of the entire quantum ecosystem, from fundamental science to applied research and commercialization. Moreover, the evolution of quantum computers, while presenting new cybersecurity threats, simultaneously drives the need for more advanced security solutions. This technological revolution is expected to foster both international cooperation and competition, ultimately contributing to solving some of humanity’s most intractable challenges.

Source: https://www.fastcompany.com/91567589/quantum-computings-next-leap-may-be-closer-than-you-think

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