Ray Powell
Founder & Director
SeaLight
Ray Powell is the Founder and Director of SeaLight, a maritime transparency initiative at the Gordian Knot Center for National Security Innovation at Stanford University. His work focuses on increasing
awareness of maritime security dynamics, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. He is also the co-host of the podcast “Why Should We Care About the Indo-Pacific?”, which explores key geopolitical issues affecting the region.
Ray served 35 years in the U.S. Air Force, holding key diplomatic and operational roles worldwide. His assignments included posts in the Philippines, Japan, Germany, and Qatar and combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He also served as the U.S. Air Attaché to Vietnam and the U.S. Defense Attaché to Australia, strengthening military-to-military relations and advancing U.S. strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific.
Beyond his government service, Ray continues to shape maritime security discussions and policy. His expertise and insights contribute to the broader regional stability, transparency, and defense cooperation conversation.
Related Sessions
Salon Breakfast: HawkEye 360
Wednesday, April 9, 2025
7:15 am - 8:30 am
Track: By Invitation Only