National Quantum Readiness Act of 2026

This bill, known as the National Quantum Readiness Act of 2026, aims to accelerate the development and deployment of quantum technologies for national defense. It mandates the Secretary of Defense to identify and prioritize three next-generation quantum sensor projects for fielding by September 30, 2028, within 60 days of enactment.

Within 120 days, the Secretaries of Defense, Commerce, Energy, and the Director of the National Science Foundation must jointly develop a plan. This plan, in coordination with other federal offices, will focus on encouraging and partnering with the private sector to develop quantum-enabling component technologies domestically and identify necessary legislative or administrative actions to overcome quantum-specific market hurdles.

Finally, the legislation requires the Secretary of Defense, within 180 days, to take steps to increase domestic access to Department of Defense-sponsored quantum information science and technology foundry resources. This includes strengthening efforts to improve access to critical quantum information science and technology supply chains, thereby bolstering the nation's quantum readiness.