Episode 16: Quantum Computing with PJ Maykish and Olivia Armstrong

02/25/25 • 22 min

This memo outlines a plan to ensure the United States remains a global leader in quantum computing, through focused technological innovation, strategic organizational changes, and proactive policy measures.

To secure U.S. leadership in quantum computing, the following priorities must be addressed:

Achieve and Sustain Quantum Leadership: Moving out as a nation involves two organizational moves. First, the United States must prioritize quantum computing research and development through the promotion of the National Quantum Initiative. And second, additional federal funding is needed to ensure first-mover advantage in quantum computing which will directly impact critical sectors and the future of national security and economic growth.
Accelerate Public-Private Collaboration: A quantum moonshot and greater systematic collaboration to out-learn rival nations is needed to be more competitive. A moonshot naturally brings players together for a specific national security achievement. Existing collaborations like the Quantum Economic Development Consortium and Elevate Quantum (a national tech hub) are a promising start, but increased and systematic intra-governmental collaboration would place the nation on a more competitive footing.
Protect Quantum Security and Resilience: The United States must take proactive measures to view quantum information science as an “offensive and defensive” domain. One step would be establishing an offensive capabilities unit via the National Quantum Initiative or relevant agency. The focus would be to secure quantum technologies from adversarial threats and ensure the security of critical systems vulnerable to quantum-enabled cyberattacks.

A Bold Vision for Quantum Leadership

By small organization moves, an audacious goal, increased collaboration, and an offensive mindset, the United States can strengthen and sustain its leadership in quantum technologies, ensuring national security and economic prosperity for generations to come.

Read the Full Memo Here: https://scsp.ai/reports/memostothepresident/quantum

Memos to the President Podcast is a product of the Special Competitive Studies Project.

To secure U.S. leadership in quantum computing, the following priorities must be addressed:

Achieve and Sustain Quantum Leadership: Moving out as a nation involves two organizational moves. First, the United States must prioritize quantum computing research and development through the promotion of the National Quantum Initiative. And second, additional federal funding is needed to ensure first-mover advantage in quantum computing which will directly impact critical sectors and the future of national security and economic growth.
Accelerate Public-Private Collaboration: A quantum moonshot and greater systematic collaboration to out-learn rival nations is needed to be more competitive. A moonshot naturally brings players together for a specific national security achievement. Existing collaborations like the Quantum Economic Development Consortium and Elevate Quantum (a national tech hub) are a promising start, but increased and systematic intra-governmental collaboration would place the nation on a more competitive footing.
Protect Quantum Security and Resilience: The United States must take proactive measures to view quantum information science as an “offensive and defensive” domain. One step would be establishing an offensive capabilities unit via the National Quantum Initiative or relevant agency. The focus would be to secure quantum technologies from adversarial threats and ensure the security of critical systems vulnerable to quantum-enabled cyberattacks.

A Bold Vision for Quantum Leadership

Read the Full Memo Here: https://scsp.ai/reports/memostothepresident/quantum

Memos to the President Podcast is a product of the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Previous Episode

Episode 15: A Conversation with Michele Flournoy

Michèle served as the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy from February 2009 to February 2012, and serves as one of SCSP's Board of Advisors. Together, they discuss AI and the future of warfare, the U.S.-China-Taiwan security dynamic, and strategic guidance for the Secretary of Defense.
They reference the following article, AI is Already at War, Foreign Affairs.

Memos to the President Podcast is a product of the Special Competitive Studies Project.

Next Episode

Episode 17: Advanced Networks with David Lin and Ananmay Agarwal

The Advanced Networks Memo outlines four strategic recommendations to reclaim American leadership in network technologies and secure a competitive edge in the 5G and impending 6G races. This agenda calls for bold actions to boost innovation, streamline regulatory processes, dominate emerging concepts, and reposition the United States as the global leader in next-generation communications in the following ways:

Forge a Path to U.S. Preeminence in Network Technology:Accelerate innovation by eliminating bureaucratic hurdles and leveraging private sector capabilities to rapidly deploy secure, next-generation infrastructure. This objective is designed to counter China’s dominance by significantly upgrading our network base—from LEO satellite constellations to advanced data centers and robust cybersecurity frameworks—thereby reasserting American leadership on the global stage.
Lead in Advanced 5G Applications:Catalyze transformative breakthroughs by integrating AI with 5G, driving efficiencies across defense, manufacturing, healthcare, and beyond. By establishing a vibrant ecosystem for AI-powered 5G innovations, the United States can reinforce economic strength and enhance national security, ensuring that our technological edge propels us ahead of our adversaries.
Position for 6G Development: Invest proactively in early-stage research, talent development, and the creation of a “6G America” initiative to dominate the future of communication technologies. This forward-looking approach empowers the United States to shape and lead the next technological revolution, ensuring that we remain at the cutting edge of global network advancements for decades to come.
Assert U.S. Leadership in Advanced Networks Globally: Forge strategic alliances with allies to co-develop secure network technologies and establish international standards that reflect American values. By expanding trusted network initiatives from the first Trump Administration and incentivizing the global phase-out of Chinese equipment, this objective ensures that U.S. technological superiority and security imperatives define the future global network landscape.

Read the Full Memo Here: https://scsp.ai/reports/memostothepresident/networks/

Memos to the President Podcast is a product of the Special Competitive Studies Project.