In a historic step for the use of quantum computing in the defense sector, the U.S. government has incorporated a quantum pilot program in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), signed into law by President Biden on December 22, 2023. This program marks a significant commitment to harnessing quantum technology for national security and defense purposes.
The initiative, which emphasizes the development of near-term quantum computing applications, is designed to address critical challenges faced by the Department of Defense (DOD), including the Armed Forces. The focus is on practical applications that can immediately benefit military and national security operations. Key areas include supporting warfighters’ needs and employing annealing quantum computing and quantum-hybrid technologies.
D-Wave Quantum (NYSE: QBTS), a pioneering company in quantum computing systems, software, services, and a commercial supplier of quantum computers, lauds this significant step by U.S. policymakers. Dr. Alan Baratz, CEO of D-Wave, commends Congress and the Administration for accelerating the use of quantum technologies in solving critical defense challenges. He notes that this bipartisan action aligns the U.S. with other global leaders already advancing national security applications using quantum technology.
Proofs of Concepts
The goal of the pilot program is to create proofs of concepts (POCs), pilots, and demonstrations using a variety of quantum computing platforms. This would guarantee that the Department of Defense of the United States uses the best technology possible to accomplish its goals. D-Wave has a well-established track record in this area; the firm has developed applications, proofs of concept, and demonstrations for several governments and corporations throughout the globe.
D-Wave has used annealing quantum computing technology to optimize cargo port operations at the Port of Los Angeles via SavantX, therefore tackling global supply chain difficulties. This is one noteworthy application of the technology. Additional noteworthy achievements include creating apps for the Australian Army’s last-mile resupply in times of emergency, lowering carbon emissions, improving tsunami evacuation routes in Japan, and creating defense-related apps like missile interceptor assignment and radar scheduling.
Additionally, the new legislation would promote cooperation between non-traditional military contractors, small enterprises, academic institutions, and the Department of military. This strategy would acknowledge the critical role that startups like D-Wave play in advancing quantum innovation.
In the long run, the pilot program is in line with larger Congressional efforts related to quantum technology, with a focus on developing near-term applications and ensuring that annealing, gate-model, and quantum-hybrid technologies are inclusive, stated D-Wave. This action would represent a major step toward the integration of cutting-edge quantum computing technologies into the American military strategy, which might completely change the way that national security issues are handled in the age of quantum technology.
