S.Amdt. 3492

SA 3492, submitted by Mrs. BLACKBURN, aims to add a section to S. 2296 (the fiscal year 2026 military appropriations bill) that requires the Secretary of Defense to create a strategy on quantum readiness.

The purpose of this amendment is to ensure the Department of Defense identifies and addresses risks that quantum computing poses to its data and systems.

The proposed strategy must include:

• An assessment of quantum computing risks and a determination of the most vulnerable systems and data.
• Progress reports on moving cryptographic systems to post-quantum cryptography by 2035 or earlier.
• A plan to use automated tools for visibility, risk prioritization, and remediation of insecure cryptography.
• The methodology for validating cryptographic modules as quantum ready.
• Resource estimates to achieve readiness by 2035 or sooner.
• A breakdown of how funds from Public Law 119-21 will be spent on specific programs and activities.

The strategy must be submitted to congressional defense committees within 180 days of the Act's enactment in an unclassified form, though it can include a classified annex. Additionally, the Secretary must provide a briefing on the strategy within 240 days.