Congresswoman Stefanik to unveil Defense Quantum Acceleration Act
Congresswoman Stefanik is set to introduce the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act, aiming to enhance the Department of Defense’s role in quantum information science. The bill seeks to advance quantum technologies within the DoD, align with the National Defense Authorization Act, and establish a strategy for integrating quantum technology across military operations. This initiative follows significant quantum computing breakthroughs and includes measures to propel the DoD’s quantum capabilities forward.
Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-New York) confirmed she will formally introduce the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act to strengthen the United States Department of Defense’s (DoD) involvement in quantum information science.
During a ceremony at the Griffiss Institute in Rome, New York, Congresswoman Elise Stefanik announced the official introduction of the Defense Quantum Acceleration Act. Stefanik informed the audience that leadership in quantum research has global, national, and local implications.
Why does it matter?
Stefanik has advocated quantum technologies, especially in her home state of New York, with $415 million in Air Force Research Lab funding secured via the FY2024 appropriations process.
The bill is expected to direct the DoD to design and implement a comprehensive strategy for the adoption and integration of quantum technology across DoD operations, aligning with the priorities of the FY24 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
The text also says to include measures that ‘take this focus to the next level.’ The Defense Quantum Acceleration Act is expected to boost the DoD’s approach to quantum information science and create a framework for achieving a functional quantum computer. The announcement was made the same week Microsoft and Quantinuum claimed they had achieved a breakthrough in the reliability of quantum computing.
About author
Mouloud Khelif
Based in Geneva, Switzerland, Mr Mouloud Khelif is an independent digital strategy, policy, and governance advisor/consultant with over 25 years of international experience, spanning multiple industries across public, private, and non-profit sectors. Mouloud joined the Digital Watch Observatory as a Digital Knowledge Fellow in August 2023, contributing to the technology and economic baskets. His current interests span AI governance and policymaking, the impact of disruptive technologies on the future of work, and linking geoeconomics and geopolitics to digital innovation.