Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) became the first university to operate a quantum computer, with funding from IBM. Microsoft and Quantinuum also demonstrated reliable logical qubits. Despite these advancements, Congress has been slow to support quantum technology. The National Quantum Initiative, if passed, would allocate $3.6 billion for quantum research reports The Hill.
Quantum computing, a field that utilizes principles of quantum mechanics to process and transmit information, has been gaining attention from U.S. lawmakers. This technology has immense potential, with the ability to significantly accelerate calculations, far surpassing the growth seen in the recent AI revolution. However, the development and application of quantum computing also pose significant national security risks.
In April, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) became the first university globally to operate a quantum computer. This achievement was made possible through funding from the CHIPS and Science Act, which supported IBM, the company behind RPI’s quantum computer. Despite these advancements, Congress has been slow to embrace the potential of quantum technology fully.
The National Quantum Initiative and the Quantum Race
The National Quantum Initiative, first authorized in 2018, is awaiting Congress’s reauthorization. It would allocate $3.6 billion for quantum research, including funding for new quantum institutes and foundries if passed. This initiative aims to support basic research, secure quantum supply chains, and promote commercializing quantum applications.
However, the U.S. is not alone in its pursuit of quantum technology. Under President Xi Jinping, China has invested an estimated $15 billion in its National Quantum Initiative. In 2022, Chinese tech giant Baidu released an early quantum computer, indicating the effectiveness of this investment. Europe has also been proactive, investing over $8 billion in quantum initiatives over the past five years.
Quantum Computing: Challenges and Opportunities
Despite quantum computing’s potential, several challenges must be overcome before it can be fully realized. Researchers are working to exploit quantum properties like superposition and entanglement to create computers with thousands of qubits, the fundamental unit of quantum information. They are also developing processing units capable of correcting errors resulting from quantum noise.
Different companies and countries are experimenting with various physical models for quantum computing. For instance, Alphabet and IBM are focusing on superconducting qubits cooled to extremely low temperatures, while other startups are exploring a neutral atom approach, which uses lasers to manipulate atoms with no net electric charge.
Securing Quantum Supply Chains
As with semiconductors, securing quantum supply chains is critical for the U.S. and its allies to maintain a leading position in this field. However, this task is inherently challenging due to the various supply chains associated with different quantum computing models. For example, a computer built on superconducting qubits would require special helium refrigerators, while one using trapped-ion qubits would need advanced laser technology and specific isotopes.
To mitigate these risks, the U.S. should expand domestic production. The National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act could help scale quantum production through its support for specialized quantum foundries throughout the country.
Commercial Application of Quantum Technologies
Beyond computing, quantum technologies also have significant potential in other areas, such as sensing. Quantum sensors, which operate based on quantum properties, are sensitive to even the slightest perturbations. This makes them highly effective in various applications, from heart function monitoring to detecting earthquakes.
Quantum sensing could also have significant implications for national security and systems intelligence. Quantum sensors could detect anything from subterranean nuclear installations to submarines and electromagnetic emissions. While a fully functional, error-corrected quantum computer with sufficient qubits may still be decades away, quantum sensing technologies could revolutionize the battleground in the near term.
In conclusion, the National Quantum Initiative Reauthorization Act should be part of an integrated strategy that prioritizes quantum technologies on the national security and prosperity agenda. By supporting technology research, securing supply chains, and promoting commercialization, the U.S. can address the biggest bottlenecks in quantum technologies and maintain its leading position in this critical field.
External Link: The Hill
