The Supply Chain Chokepoints in Quantum

As quantum technologies move toward deployment, their supply chain resilience becomes a critical national security concern. Key vulnerabilities exist in components with few alternatives, such as cryogenic dilution refrigerators which are dominated by a few foreign suppliers, creating potential bottlenecks. Another significant chokepoint is the scarcity of Helium-3, an isotope essential for ultra-low temperature cooling that is primarily a byproduct of nuclear weapons programs. The processing of rare earth elements required for photonic and optical systems is also heavily concentrated outside of NATO territories, creating a significant dependency risk for the United States and its allies.