US government sets 2028 target for fault‑tolerant quantum computer

The U.S. administration announced a coordinated strategy to deliver a scientifically relevant, fault‑tolerant quantum computer by 2028. Two executive orders signed by President Donald Trump direct the Department of Energy to define technical specifications, build the system at a national laboratory, and accelerate related quantum technologies, including sensors, networking, and post‑quantum cryptography (moving migration deadlines from 2035 to 2031).

The initiative, named Quantum Genesis, structures the effort into three divisions: a Q Competition requiring demonstrable low‑hundreds‑qubit hardware, a National Quantum Supercomputing User Facility that will link to existing exascale supercomputers and federal data networks, and an application‑mapping program that will pair the hardware with scientific problems in plasma physics, materials science, chemistry and high‑energy physics. The program also emphasizes domestic supply‑chain security, workforce training, and cooperation with allied nations.

Officials describe the 2028 milestone as a stepping stone toward larger, commercial quantum systems and a means to safeguard U.S. communications, finance and critical infrastructure against future quantum threats.