NSA Introduces QuantumEAGLe Program to Advance U.S. Quantum Computing

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Mohib Ur Rehman
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  • The NSA’s Laboratory for Physical Sciences and the U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Office have launched the QuantumEAGLe initiative to strengthen the U.S. quantum computing ecosystem and accelerate commercial and research progress.
  • The initiative focuses on industry collaboration, commercial roadmaps, domestic supply chains, quantum algorithms, error correction, and foundational quantum research.
  • QuantumEAGLe will work directly with U.S. quantum companies through flexible contracting mechanisms to align research with commercial needs and support national quantum capabilities.

Press release – The Laboratory for Physical Sciences (LPS) at the National Security Agency (NSA), in close collaboration with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Army Research Office (ARO), announces the launch of the Quantum Ecosystem Advancement, Growth & Leadership (QuantumEAGLe) initiative in support of the President’s Quantum Executive Order. This new program aims to accelerate the U.S. quantum computing ecosystem and strengthen the nation’s leadership in quantum technology.

QuantumEAGLe focuses on five key areas to drive innovation and growth in the U.S. quantum industry:

  1. Industry Engagement: Foster strong collaboration with the quantum industry to align research efforts with commercial needs and opportunities.
  2. Commercial Roadmaps: Enable the development of commercial roadmaps by working directly with industry partners to identify and address key challenges.
  3. Supply Chain Advancement: Enhance the performance, manufacturing, and commercial availability of specialized components essential for building quantum computers, ensuring a robust U.S. supply chain.
  4. Algorithmic Applications: Discover novel algorithms that provide a quantum advantage and develop error correction techniques to make fault-tolerant computation a reality.
  5. Foundational Research: Support research to solve fundamental challenges in qubit performance, simulation tools, and system characterization, laying the groundwork for future advancements.

“Building on LPS’s rich history in Quantum Information Science, which includes decades of foundational research and collaboration with the Department of War, QuantumEAGLe represents a significant expansion of NSA’s quantum computing efforts,” said Liji Samuel, NSA chief of the Laboratory for Physical Sciences. “This initiative is designed to cultivate a resilient U.S. industrial base capable of delivering on the promise of quantum computing for national and economic security.”

According to ARO Acting Director Dr. Purush Iyer, by combining the strengths of LPS and ARO in fundamental research and technical innovation, QuantumEAGLe will accelerate progress toward fault-tolerant quantum computing and ensure the United States remains at the forefront of this critical technology.

“Together, we are building the foundation for future breakthroughs that will benefit both national and economic security and the broader scientific community,” he said.

Dr. Michael Metcalfe, NSA chief of Quantum Information Science, emphasized that the QuantumEAGLe initiative represents a significant step in strengthening America’s quantum computing capabilities.

“By working closely with the quantum industry, we aim to enhance our supply chain, develop cutting-edge algorithms, and overcome fundamental research challenges,” he said. “This collaborative effort will help us maintain U.S. leadership in quantum technology and ensure the security and prosperity of our nation.”

The initiative will leverage flexible contracting authorities and work directly with the U.S. quantum industry to help align research with commercial needs and support stronger domestic capability.

The QuantumEAGLe Special Notice has been posted by the Army Contracting Command on SAM.gov.

To learn more about how you can support this mission or to join the effort, visit www.nsa.gov/careers.

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MENTIONED IN THE ARTICLE

Laboratory for Physical Sciences
GovernmentUnited States · 11-50 FTEs

The Laboratory for Physical Sciences is dedicated to advancing physical sciences research in future information technologies to prevent technological surprises.

National Security Agency (NSA)
GovernmentUnited States · 10001+ FTEs

The National Security Agency is a national-level intelligence agency of the United States Department of Defense, under the authority of the Director of National Intelligence. NSA views quantum-resistant (or post-quantum) cryptography as a more cost effective and easily maintained solution than quantum key distribution. For all of these reasons, NSA does not support the usage of QKD or QC to protect communications in National Security Systems, and does not anticipate certifying or approving any QKD or QC security products for usage by NSS customers unless these limitations are overcome. The Laboratory for Physical Sciences (LPS) at the National Security Agency is deeply engaged in Quantum Information Science (QIS) R&D, covering quantum computing, sensing, and communications, along with supporting technologies. Their programs include Quantum Computing in the Solid State (QC-5), Stable High Fidelity Trapped Ion Systems, and Quantum Characterization of Intermediate-Scale Systems. LPS collaborates with partners like the Army Research Office (ARO) to advance initiatives like QC-5, focusing on various aspects of qubit research. Through the Quantum Computing Fund (QCF), LPS facilitates access to advanced qubits for research groups. Established in 2020, the Laboratory for Quantum Computing (LQC) supports the National Quantum Initiative (NQI) Act, promoting collaboration across government, industry, and academia. LQC's "Super Semi Lab" is a dedicated facility for quantum materials and qubit research. Additionally, LPS conducts quantum sensing research to develop highly sensitive magnetometers for national security applications.

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