LIS Technologies Inc. (“LIST” or “the Company”), a proprietary developer of advanced laser technology and the only USA-origin and patented laser uranium enrichment company, today announced that it has appointed General John M. Paxton Jr. USMC (Ret.) as its Executive Chair of Military and Defense.
General Paxton’s distinguished 42-year career in the United States Marine Corps culminated in his role as the 33rd Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps, a position he held from 2012 until his retirement in 2016. Throughout his career, General Paxton earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit.
“The United States is the home of nuclear power and the key to that is enriched uranium,” said Gen. John M. Paxton Jr., Executive Chair of Military and Defense of LIS Technologies Inc. “Recent geopolitical events have made it clear that it is no longer prudent to depend primarily on foreign governments for the critical resources needed in nuclear energy. LIST, a U.S.-based company headquartered in the cradle of America’s nuclear history, is poised to play a significant role in ensuring the United States remains a global leader in the nuclear energy sector, thanks to its innovative technology and forward-thinking management. I am honored to take on this role and continue serving the best interests of the American people.”
Figure 1 – LIS Technologies Inc. Appoints General John M. Paxton Jr. USMC (Ret.) as its Executive Chair of Military and Defense
General Paxton graduated from Cornell University and was commissioned as a Marine officer in 1974. His service included a wide range of command and staff assignments, at every level, from platoon to division, including serving as the Commanding General of the 1st Marine Division and successively as Commander of Marine Forces in Africa and Europe. He was also deeply involved in joint and multinational operations, holding significant positions such as the Director of Operations (J-3) for the Joint Staff, where he was responsible for overseeing global operations and crisis response.
“It is a pleasure to have Gen. Paxton’s support in our mission to bring innovative, proven technology back to the United States in this pivotal moment for the nuclear industry,” said Christo Liebenberg, Chief Executive Officer of LIS Technologies Inc. “His deep knowledge of the country’s energy requirements and unique understanding of geopolitical events will greatly enhance our efforts, enabling us to streamline our approach to commercialization. His extensive experience and leadership style will be invaluable, and the relationships he has cultivated over his career will play a crucial role as we continue to scale and pursue our goals.”
General Paxton joins the Company as part of its rapid expansion strategy and will oversee efforts to align its strategic initiatives with U.S. defense and military priorities, fostering partnerships with key government agencies and industry leaders to address critical energy needs. Despite the U.S. government’s pledge, alongside Canada, France, Japan, and the United Kingdom, of $4.2 billion in investments at COP28 for a reliable global uranium supply chain, domestic enrichment capabilities in the U.S. still lag projected demand. Additionally, the Biden Administration’s ban on importing low-enriched uranium (LEU) from Russia presents significant opportunities for companies like LIST to innovate and bridge the gap in domestic production capabilities.