IonQ adds 'father of the Space Force' to board of directors

[Quantum computer in the lab.]
Peter Hansen/iStock via Getty Images

Quantum computing firm IonQ (NYSE:IONQ [https://seekingalpha.com/symbol/IONQ]) said on Monday that it has added General John Raymond — widely known as the “father of the Space Force” — to its board of directors.

General Raymond, who had a nearly 40 year career in the U.S. military and held leadership positions at every level across nuclear, space, air, and cyber operations, is currently a managing director at Cerberus Capital Management. He was named the first Chief of Space Operations and first member of the U.S. Space Force by President Trump.

“General Raymond’s career has been defined by innovation, service, and mission-critical leadership,” said IonQ CEO and Chairman Niccolo de Masi in a statement. “His strategic vision, trusted relationships, and deep understanding of complex global security challenges will be invaluable to IonQ as we continue to expand partnerships with governments and defense agencies across quantum computing, networking, and sensing — on the ground and in space.”

“IonQ is at the forefront of quantum innovation, with products that are vital for national security,” General Raymond added. “The commercial and national security sectors are intrinsically interconnected, therefore quantum solutions are necessary to protect assets, enable resilient communications, and unlock new capabilities in space operations. I’m honored to join IonQ’s Board and contribute to the company’s important mission.”

Earlier this month, IonQ signed [https://seekingalpha.com/news/4495792-ionq-honeywell-epb-partner-with-doe-to-boost-quantum-in-space-collaboration] a deal with the U.S. Dept. of Energy to advance the deployment of quantum technologies in space.

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