Ex-Mossad Chief Yossi Cohen Joins Quantum Tech Firm Quantum X Labs

Yossi Cohen, former head of Israel's external intelligence agency, the Mossad, has joined the quantum technology company Quantum X Labs as president of its scientific council. Cohen, who also serves as a strategic advisor to SoftBank, will focus on shaping the company's strategic and commercial direction in areas such as quantum computing, quantum error correction, software, quantum sensing, and cyber, with an emphasis on applications for the defense, aviation, homeland security, and critical infrastructure sectors.

In his new role, Cohen is expected to contribute beyond scientific advice, assisting in prioritizing defense applications, fostering international collaborations, and translating the company's intellectual property and developments into governmental programs and commercial ventures. His appointment comes as Cohen is also active in the technology investment landscape, having joined SoftBank's Vision Fund 2 in 2021 after leaving public service, focusing on investments in Israeli tech and cyber companies. He was appointed a strategic advisor to SoftBank in August, a role that includes work on AI infrastructure, data centers, and chip investments.

Quantum X Labs' work encompasses a quantum computing platform based on neutral atoms, an AI-integrated architecture for quantum error correction, and the development of a quantum gyroscope for navigation in GPS-denied environments, alongside precise atomic clocks and activities in quantum cyber, nuclear simulations, and life sciences. A key focus is the 'Quantum Gyro,' a chip-based quantum gyroscope technology designed for accurate navigation when GPS signals are blocked or jammed. The company also operates in precise measurement, secure communication, and computing systems with error correction mechanisms, targeting defense and critical infrastructure markets.

Yaki Berns, co-CEO of Quantum X Labs, stated that Cohen's appointment is not merely symbolic, emphasizing the company's development of real-world quantum sensing capabilities for navigation and timing, quantum error correction, and quantum cyber. Cohen himself cited the combination of human capital and technological potential as reasons for joining, drawing on his leadership experience, including at the Mossad, to identify the necessary blend of people, technology, and vision for significant impact.

Cohen led the Mossad from 2016 to 2021, previously serving as head of the National Security Council and deputy head of the Mossad. The company believes his expertise in security, intelligence, and technology will be crucial in bridging quantum research with practical applications in navigation, precise timing, secure communication, and environments with electromagnetic interference. Quantum X Labs also has parallel activities in digital advertising, enterprise software, and AI, with its quantum division focusing on algorithms for transportation, drug discovery, and security, alongside alternative navigation solutions and atomic precision-based systems.