Pentagon Sets 2030 Deadline for Quantum-Resistant Cybersecurity Upgrade
The Pentagon announced that all its systems must adopt post-quantum cryptography by the end of 2030 and be fully using it by the end of 2031, aligning with broader federal timelines.
The Department of Defense has established a firm schedule requiring its information systems to support quantum-resistant algorithms no later than December 2030, with mandatory use by the close of 2031. This follows the National Security Agency’s recent move to advance the post-quantum clock and a presidential executive order that accelerated the federal transition. Legacy equipment that cannot be upgraded is slated for phase-out by 2030. The deadlines are presented as essential milestones rather than immediate readiness tests.
Why it matters
Adopting quantum-resistant encryption is crucial to protect U.S. defense communications from future quantum computer threats.
In this story
