A new bill introduced in both the House and Senate aims to appoint a principal quantum advisor to the Secretary of Defense, aiming to bolster the Pentagon’s efforts in quantum technology.

“U.S. advancement of quantum technology is critical for our nation to compete on the global stage, as Communist China has made clear their goal to lead the world in this industry by 2049,” U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) said.

“Quantum’s impact on our national security will be considerable and we must take immediate steps to ensure the United States is the first nation to reach quantum advantage. This bill will ensure the DoD, led by the incredible work at Rome Labs, is able to outpace our adversaries and rapidly develop and transition quantum technologies to our service members,” Representative Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.) said.

The Defense Quantum Acceleration Act seeks to empower the designated quantum lead in crafting a strategic roadmap for effectively integrating quantum technology across the Department of Defense (DoD) in the immediate future.

“Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall designate a senior official of the Department of Defense to serve as the Principal Quantum Advisor for the Department,” the bill said.

The Defense Quantum Acceleration Act proposes to create a framework for the DoD to enhance its strategy for developing and implementing quantum technology. 

The bill specifies that this will be achieved by empowering the principal quantum advisor to formulate a strategic roadmap for quantum advancements, as outlined in the legislation.