U.S. Government Sets 2028 Goal for Quantum‑Computer Accelerator

The United States announced a coordinated effort to accelerate the development and deployment of quantum computers, aiming to field a system‑capable machine for research by 2028. The Department of Energy will be equipped with such a quantum computer, while a range of federal agencies—including NASA—are directed to draft five‑year plans for quantum‑technology applications.

The same directive calls for enhanced protection of critical infrastructure against threats posed by future quantum capabilities, urging a transition to quantum‑resistant cryptography across sectors such as energy and water. Experts note the potential impact on the cryptocurrency industry, citing research suggesting that fewer physical qubits than previously thought could jeopardize current elliptic‑curve encryption used by Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Tech firms, led by Google, are expected to deliver practical quantum computers by the end of the decade, intensifying competition in the emerging market and prompting other companies to develop quantum‑secure encryption methods.