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Ballistic Ventures announced on August 1, 2024, that retired U.S. Army General Paul Nakasone had joined the firm as a strategic advisor. Ballistic said he would help assess investments and provide strategic support to portfolio companies. This is a 2024 appointment announcement, not a new 2026 announcement.
What is Paul Nakasone’s role at Ballistic Ventures?
In its August 1, 2024 announcement, Ballistic Ventures described Nakasone’s remit as assessing the firm’s investments and providing strategic support to companies in its portfolio. The announcement does not specify compensation, contract duration, meeting frequency, or particular investment decisions.
Ballistic characterizes itself as a venture capital firm focused on early-stage cybersecurity and cyber-related companies. Its announcement said Nakasone joined after the close of the firm’s second fund, which Ballistic reported was $360 million. That figure is the firm’s statement, not independently verified performance data.
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Ballistic’s announcement identifies Nakasone as a former commander of U.S. Cyber Command, director of the National Security Agency, and chief of the Central Security Service. His experience leading major U.S. national security and cybersecurity organizations is the background the firm cited in describing the appointment.
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In the release, Ballistic co-founder and general partner Ted Schlein said, “General Nakasone is uniquely familiar with the most pressing national security threats facing the U.S. today.” Nakasone said, “Throughout my career, I learned very quickly that partnerships between the public and private sectors can never be understated.” These are the speakers’ views as quoted by Ballistic.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What Ballistic’s current profile says
Ballistic’s current biography of Nakasone continues to describe him as an advisor. It also lists his service on OpenAI’s board and as founding director of Vanderbilt University’s Institute for National Defense and Global Security. The firm’s team roster lists him among its advisors. These are changeable profile details, distinct from the dated 2024 appointment announcement.
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