Trump signed executive orders on transitioning U.S. federal systems to post-quantum cryptography
On June 22, the U.S. President signed two executive orders aimed at ensuring the country's leadership in the upcoming quantum era. The documents define a strategy that not only protects against attacks using advanced cryptographic methods but also stimulates commercial and scientific innovation in this field. This is a key step that sets the development vector for the entire industry for years to come.
Cybersecurity: Strict Deadlines for PQC
The first executive order, "On Protecting the Country from Advanced Cryptographic Attacks", recognizes the immediate threat from the "harvest now, decrypt later" tactic actively used by foreign adversaries. The document establishes strict deadlines for federal agencies to transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) approved by NIST.
Key requirements and deadlines:
- Personnel: Each agency must appoint a PQC migration officer within 30 days.
- Deadlines: Migration of all valuable assets and high-impact systems to PQC for key establishment by December 31, 2030, and for digital signatures by December 31, 2031.
- NIST Pilot Project: The Department of Commerce, in coordination with NIST, will launch an internal PQC migration pilot within 180 days, which must be completed by December 31, 2027.
- Supply Chain Transparency: Within 270 days, guidelines will be issued defining minimum cryptographic component elements for automating risk assessments.
- Contractor Requirements: Federal contractors must comply with PQC standards by the end of 2030 and implement enhanced vulnerability disclosure policies.
Stimulating Innovation: Quantum Computers and Sensors
The second executive order, "Opening New Frontiers of Quantum Innovation", shifts focus to commercialization and domestic production. It recognizes that quantum technologies are on the verge of major breakthroughs and creates mechanisms to maintain U.S. leadership in this race.
Key initiatives include:
- QC-ADDS Initiative: Creation of the first quantum computer for applied development and fundamental science. The goal is to deploy at least one system at a Department of Energy facility and provide access to the scientific community.
- Quantum Sensors and Networks: Relevant agencies must present five-year plans for deploying these technologies. The Secretary of Defense is required to prioritize at least three projects for implementation by September 30, 2028.
- Counterintelligence: The FBI will expand activities to protect research from foreign espionage.
The Department of Commerce will conduct a supply chain analysis in the quantum sector and implement standards in the private sector. Pre-orders and competitive awards will be used to stimulate domestic component production, while increased tariff rates will be used to attract specialists.
My comment: These executive orders are not just a bureaucratic formality. They establish clear and strict timeframes that will affect not only the public sector but also the entire technology business working with the U.S. government. The cryptocurrency market and blockchain projects, especially those using current signature algorithms, must closely monitor this process — transitioning to quantum-resistant solutions is becoming a matter of survival, not just a technological choice.