The time is now to start the transition to quantum-safe cryptography. The military must transition outdated cryptographic solutions to NIST-approved post-quantum cryptography (PQC) algorithms by the end of 2030.

To efficiently make the transition, agencies must understand the quantum threat and the current initiatives within government and industry designed to mitigate the associated risks. 

The November 2025 DoW memorandum, Preparing for Migration to Post Quantum Cryptography, outlines the military’s necessary steps for migration. The memorandum underscores security, interoperability, and department-wide coordination for PQC implementations.

This presentation will discuss best practices for the migration to quantum-resistant security including:

·         Designating PQC migration points of contact to ensure a successful migration

·         Utilizing crypto inventory tools to learn where and how encryption is currently deployed within an agency’s infrastructure

·         Prioritizing existing infrastructure for migration to post-quantum cryptography

·         Leveraging guidance from National Security Memorandum 10 and NCCoE’s Migration to Post-Quantum Cryptography Project

·         Deploying crypto-agile solutions for PKI, Data-at-Rest and in-Transit, and Identity and Access Management

·         Applying a Cryptographic Bill of Materials (CBOM)