Beijing Solicits Bids for Major Quantum Hardware Initiative to Accelerate Tech Autonomy

Hefei National Laboratory issued a national directive calling for research proposals under China’s flagship quantum technology initiative, establishing strict operational rules and institutional caps to accelerate the domestic production of critical quantum materials, devices, and specialized equipment. Securing domestic autonomy in critical quantum hardware is vital to Beijing’s military modernization strategy, as quantum sensing, computing, and encryption directly underpin next-generation electronic warfare systems and unhackable defense communications. The solicitation outlines guidelines for the 2026 first-batch key special projects under the National Key Research and Development Program, titled “Research and Development of Key Materials, Devices, and Equipment for National Quantum Technology.”…