S.Amdt. 6438

This amendment, submitted by Ms. Hassan and Mrs. Blackburn, aims to add a section to bill S. 4784 focused on National Security Quantum Coordination and Competition. Its purpose is to organize how the Department of Defense handles quantum technology to ensure the United States maintains a competitive advantage over other countries.

The amendment seeks to add the following to the bill:

• Establishment of a New Office: The Secretary of Defense must create or designate the Department of Defense Office of Quantum Capabilities and Competition within 180 days. This office will lead efforts regarding quantum technology research, development, application, and policy, specifically for quantum sensing, computing, and communications.

• Mission and Coordination: The office is tasked with advancing research, developing expertise for national security, and pursuing a competitive advantage against other countries. It will also include a subcomponent called the Quantum Coordination Office for National Security to work with other federal agencies and government entities.

• Accountability through Reporting: The Secretary must submit classified reports to specific House and Senate committees every three years. These reports must compare U.S. quantum capabilities against those of adversarial and competitor countries, specifically including assessments of China, Russia, and Iran.

• Specific Planning: The first report must include a detailed annex on quantum communication, providing an immediate two-year and a long-term ten-year plan to close gaps and outpace the capabilities of China, Russia, Iran, and other relevant countries.