S.Amdt. 6616

SA 6616, submitted by Ms. Duckworth, aims to add a new section (Section 225) to bill S. 4784. The purpose of this amendment is to create a standardized approach for quantum radio frequency sensing technology across the joint force.

This amendment adds the following requirements and actions:

• Standardization: It requires the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering to work with military departments and the Joint Requirements Oversight Council to set joint requirements for this technology. These requirements cover performance thresholds, interoperability with existing systems, size and weight for various platforms, and scalability.

• Planning and Development: It mandates an updated Quantum Science Critical Technology Area roadmap. This roadmap must include development milestones, necessary investment levels from military departments, workforce needs, and an assessment of the industrial base for components.

• Implementation: The amendment requires the Secretary of Defense to pick a lead military department to manage the development and acquisition of a joint system. It also calls for a pilot program to test the technology on platforms such as aircraft, naval vessels, ground vehicles, and spectrum monitoring installations.

• Accountability: It establishes reporting requirements to congressional defense committees. This includes an initial report on requirements and the roadmap, followed by annual updates through fiscal year 2032 to track progress.