Quantum Space Appoints National Security Leader Richard Matlock to Advanced Space-Based Missile Defense

Rockville, MD – Quantum Space, a pioneer in high-maneuverability space infrastructure, today announced the appointment of Richard S. Matlock as Senior Vice President for National Security Space Programs. A nationally recognized missile defense expert and for U.S. Department of Defense official, Matlock will spearhead the company’s strategic expansion into advanced multi-orbit defense systems - including the highly anticipated Golden Dome solution – advancing a persistent, layered architecture designed to enable next-generation space-based missile defense.

Matlock brings over 40 years of experience across the U.S. Department of Defense, where he helped shape some of America’s most advanced missile defense programs. As Director of the Special Program for Missile Defense at the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), he was handpicked by the Deputy Secretary of Defense to lead a government-wide team to develop and implement a joint strategy to counter road-mobile ballistic missile threats—one of the nation's top strategic imperatives.

Previously, as Program Executive for Advanced Technology at the Missile Defense Agency, Matlock oversaw a portfolio that included:

• The development and deployment of a constellation of prototype missile tracking and discrimination satellites, leveraging commercial manufacturing to slash acquisition timelines;
• Development of boost-phase systems including the Space-Based Interceptor, the Lightweight Exoatmospheric Projectile and the Kinetic Energy Boost interceptor;
• Leadership of the Department of Defense’ Airborne Laser program, which achieved the first successful destruction of a boosting ballistic missile;
• Pioneered Next Gen capabilities like the multi-object Kill Vehicle, Electro-Magnetic railgun projectiles, high powered microwave devices, high efficiency, solid state lasers and other disruptive technologies.

“Rich has built a legacy of translating mission urgency into real, operational capability,” said Kerry Wisnosky, CEO of Quantum Space. “His arrival catapults Quantum Space into the national defense spotlight. He brings the clarity, experience, and vision to help architect the Golden Dome—a persistent, multi-orbit defense layer that integrates missile tracking, intercept capability, and real-time space domain awareness.”

At Quantum Space, Matlock will drive the company’s expanded focus on building responsive, layered space systems that outpace emerging threats and adversary capabilities.

“Throughout my career, I’ve worked at the intersection of strategy, technology, and urgency,” said Matlock. “Quantum Space has the right mix of vision, speed, and disruptive-technology to define the future of space-enable missile defense. I’m thrilled to join the team at such a critical time for national security.”

Quantum Space continues to position itself as a core player in the future defense architecture of the United States—advancing mission resilience, multi-domain deterrence, and strategic presence beyond GEO.

Media Contact:
Daniel Narea
Quantum Space
media@quantumspace.us