Former SDA Director Fred Kennedy Named President of Momentus

Fred Kennedy, former director of the Space Development Agency and a more than 25-year defense and industry veteran, has been appointed president of Santa Clara, California-based space technology company Momentus.

Kennedy’s appointment comes as part of Momentus’ push to expand its satellite transportation portfolio, the company said Tuesday.

He most recently served as vice president of future missions at Atmospheric & Space Technology Research Associates and was named SDA’s inaugural director in March 2019.

He previously served across roles of increasing responsibility at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency including director of its Tactical Technology Office.

Earlier in his career, Kennedy spent more than two decades at the U.S. Air Force where he helped lead space technology initiatives in areas such as satellite servicing, spacecraft and space power and propulsion.

He also served in leadership capacities at the Department of Defense and National Reconnaissance Office and held a senior policy adviser position at the Office of Science and Technology Policy.

Currently, Kennedy holds advisory roles at General Dynamics’ mission systems business and Avascent.