Russell I. Popkin

Russell I. Popkin is the Strategic Challenge lead executive for Enabling Space Superiority at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) as well as acting program area manager for Electronic Warfare within the Precision Strike Mission Area. He leads strategic efforts spanning advanced electronic warfare, survivability, autonomy, precision strike, and cross-domain capabilities for the Department of War. Recognized for his collaborative leadership, Mr. Popkin has become a Laboratory leader in integrating capabilities across disciplines and organizations. In fiscal year 2026, he co-led the Counter-C5ISR (command, control, computers, communications, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) sub-thrust for the Pacific Theater Strategic Challenge Team and led the Non-Kinetic Effects sub-thrust for Enabling Space Superiority. As Enabling Space Superiority lead executive, he now directs cross-Laboratory investments and initiatives, engages key national security stakeholders, and accelerates the development and transition of high-impact capabilities. Mr. Popkin holds degrees in computer engineering from the University of Maryland and electrical and computer engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He has completed executive education in national security leadership at Harvard Kennedy School and George Washington University.