Honorable Emil Michael sworn in as Under Secretary of Defense (Research & Engineering)
Honorable Emil Michael sworn in as Under Secretary of Defense (Research & Engineering)
NEWS RELEASE: May 20, 2025
Arlington, VA — Mr. Emil Michael was sworn in as the new Under Secretary of Defense (Research & Engineering) (USD(R&E)) on Tuesday, May 20, 2025
Nominated to the position by President Trump on Inauguration Day, Mr. Michael’s mission is to drive innovation within the Department. As the Pentagon’s Chief Technology Officer, he will prioritize speed and efficiency, welcome novel innovative players, and seek asymmetric solutions to keep the U.S. ahead of the curve. These technologies include but are not limited to artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, quantum computing, directed energy, and hypersonic capabilities—cutting-edge tech that defines the future.
“The DOD needs to foster a more robust and competitive defense industrial base by providing more realistic requirements, inviting smaller and innovative companies with less burdensome processes, and becoming more agile in how and when we grant contracts. The private sector too should bear some more responsibility for the risks of their own failure. A healthy ecosystem will provide for weapons that are better, cheaper and faster,” said Michael in his written testimony.
A first-generation immigrant to the United States, Mr. Michael embodies the American dream. He graduated from Harvard University and earned a J.D. degree with honors from Stanford University. A businessman and former senior executive at Uber, he also made his mark as an investor and advisor to numerous, groundbreaking start-ups. His federal government experience includes serving as a White House Fellow and, later that same year, as a Special Assistant to then-Secretary of Defense Robert Gates at the Department of Defense.
"I’m excited about leading this office through the challenges that lie ahead, and we will meet those challenges head-on with more expedient innovation and efficiency, as an office, and as a department.”, said Michael.
"Mr. Michael’s confirmation marks an exciting new chapter for the R&E office. His leadership will drive innovation and accelerate breakthroughs in key defense technologies," said James Mazol, who until Michael’s confirmation, was performing the duties of the Under Secretary.
Office of the Under Secretary of Defense,
Research and Engineering (OUSD(R&E))
3030 Defense Pentagon, Washington, DC 20301-3030
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