General Atomics Promotes Mike Rucker to Vice President of Weapons Programs

SAN DIEGO. General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA‑EMS), on March 4, 2026 announced the promotion of Mike Rucker to Vice President of the Weapons Programs Division. Rucker, who has held positions of increasing responsibility since joining General Atomics in 2003, will have overall leadership and day-to-day operations responsibilities for GA‑EMS’ Missile Defense and Advanced Weapons Systems portfolio. In addition, Rucker will be responsible for growth leadership and program management to transition next‑generation munitions and advanced weapons technologies into production to enhance the safety and effectiveness of US and allied forces. Rucker’s appointment reflects GA‑EMS’ continued commitment to accelerate development and delivery of advanced weapon systems.

“Mike’s leadership and industry expertise are central to GA‑EMS’ mission of delivering decisive capability to the warfighter. He understands the urgency of today’s threat environment and is driven to turn advanced technologies into field-ready weapons systems to meet the nation’s most urgent defense needs,” Scott Forney, GA-EMS President said.

“I’m proud to help guide GA‑EMS’ weapons programs at a time when transitioning advanced technologies into production is more important than ever. Our team is driving real capability into the hands of warfighters, and I’m eager to build on that momentum as we deliver systems that expand range, precision, and survivability,” Rucker said.

Rucker has more than 20 years of experience overseeing the development, integration and deployment of advanced weapon systems. He holds an MBA and bachelor’s degree in mathematics and computer science from the University of California, San Diego.