Trump Signs Quantum Orders, Sets 2030 Deadline for Post-Quantum Crypto Shift
Summary
- Trump signed Executive Orders 14409 and 14411 aimed at fostering quantum computing technology and responding to security threats.
- The U.S. government said it must shift cryptographic key systems for major systems to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) by the end of 2030 and move digital signature systems to PQC by the end of 2031.
- The move highlights analysis that cryptocurrency blockchains such as Bitcoin (BTC) and Ether (ETH) face future security threats tied to advances in quantum computers, along with concerns over Q-Day.
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President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at accelerating quantum computing development and addressing the security threats the technology could pose.
The Block reported on June 23 that Trump signed Executive Orders 14409 and 14411 the previous day. The measures are titled "Securing the Nation Against Advanced Cryptographic Attacks" and "Ushering In the Next Frontier of Quantum Innovation."
Executive Order 14409 centers on the risk that large-scale quantum computers could render existing encryption systems obsolete. It directs federal agencies to migrate critical information systems to post-quantum cryptography, or PQC, standards approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
Under the order, the U.S. government must transition the cryptographic key systems used in major systems to PQC by the end of 2030. Digital signature systems must also be replaced with PQC-based standards by the end of 2031. NIST is to begin pilot projects within 180 days and complete them by the end of 2027.
The move could also have implications for the cryptocurrency industry. Major blockchains including Bitcoin and Ether rely on public-key cryptography, raising concerns that they could become vulnerable if quantum computing advances enough to break current security systems.
Coinbase's quantum computing advisory council recently estimated that about 7 million Bitcoin could eventually be exposed to quantum attacks. Security firm Project Eleven has also projected that so-called Q-Day, when modern cryptography can be broken, could arrive around 2030.
Executive Order 14411 outlines a roadmap for strengthening U.S. competitiveness in quantum technology. Its core measures include developing quantum computers and quantum sensors, building supply chains, training specialized talent and expanding quantum technology use across scientific research and industry.
