Latest news with #EPB
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
IonQ Announces Intention to Acquire Lightsynq, Expediting Quantum Computing, Quantum Internet, and Offering Clear Path to Millions of Qubits
"We're excited to work alongside the world-class quantum computing and networking teams at IonQ. Together we intend to move faster than any other player in the industry to deliver data-center-scale quantum computers that can deliver transformative value to customers," said CEO of Lightsynq, Dr. Mihir Bhaskar. "Our photonic interconnect will integrate with IonQ's quantum processing units (QPUs) to boost connection speeds and ensure long term market-leading scale and power in quantum computing. Our interconnect will also be critical for IonQ to build the quantum internet, enabling entirely new applications for customers in the financial, telecommunications, aerospace, and defense sectors." "IonQ's vision has always been to scale our quantum networks through quantum repeaters, and scale our quantum compute power through photonic interconnects. Today's announcement of our intention to acquire Lightsynq helps accelerate both roadmaps," said Niccolo de Masi, CEO of IonQ. "We are pleased to welcome Lightsynq founders Dr. Mihir Bhaskar, Dr. Bart Machielese, Dr. David Levonian and the rest of the Lightsynq team to IonQ. Their groundbreaking technology will accelerate IonQ's commercial quantum computer delivery to 10,000s and ultimately millions of qubits." Story Continues IonQ will also acquire ownership of Lightsynq's portfolio of over 20 technology patents and patent applications related to quantum memory, further strengthening IonQ's growing intellectual property position. The acquisition of Lightsynq follows IonQ's recent quantum computing and networking momentum, including the recently announced joint development of a new quantum computing innovation center with EPB in Chattanooga, TN, housing the first quantum computing and networking hub in the U.S. IonQ has also recently acquired Qubitekk and ID Quantique, two leaders in the quantum networking industry, and signed networking contracts with defense and intelligence organizations like the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security (ARLIS) and the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). Advisor Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is serving as legal counsel to IonQ. Goodwin Procter LLP is serving as legal counsel to Lightsynq. About IonQ IonQ, Inc. is a leader in the quantum computing and networking industries, delivering high-performance systems aimed at solving the world's largest and most complex commercial and research use cases. IonQ's current generation quantum computers, IonQ Forte and IonQ Forte Enterprise, are the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems, boasting 36 algorithmic qubits. The company's innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in Newsweek's 2025 Excellence Index 1000, Forbes' 2025 Most Successful Mid-Cap Companies list, and Built In's 2025 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in Washington DC and Seattle, respectively. Available through all major cloud providers, IonQ is making quantum computing more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at About Lightsynq Lightsynq is a quantum interconnect company founded by Harvard quantum networking experts and former AWS research leads Dr. Mihir Bhaskar (CEO), Dr. Bart Machielse (CTO) and Dr. David Levonian (CPO). Lightsynq's founders built the first-ever quantum repeater capable of extending the range of quantum networks, a key technology enabling quantum devices to connect together in a future Quantum Internet. Lightsynq's core mission is to use this same technology to build the world's best quantum interconnects to link quantum processors at high speeds and overcome the bottleneck of single-system scaling. IonQ Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Some of the forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words. Statements that are not historical in nature, including the words "anticipate," "develop," "vision," "intention," "will," "accelerate," "enable," "eventually," "goal," "advance," "unlock," "growing," "ultimately," and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include the anticipated closing of the acquisition; those related to IonQ and Lightsynq's quantum computing and internet capabilities and plans; IonQ and Lightsynq's technology driving commercial quantum advantage or delivering scalable, fault-tolerant quantum computing in the future; the relevance and utility of quantum algorithms and applications run on IonQ and Lightsynq's quantum computers; the necessity, effectiveness, and future impacts of IonQ and Lightsynq's offerings available today; Lightsynq personnel joining IonQ; the ability of Lightsynq's technology to accelerate the development and scale of IonQ's systems and offerings; the potential impact of photonic interconnect technology on IonQ and Lightsynq's systems and offerings; and the scalability, fidelity, efficiency, viability, accessibility, effectiveness, importance, reliability, performance, speed, impact, practicality, feasibility, and commercial-readiness of IonQ and Lightsynq's offerings. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections, and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to implement their technical roadmap; changes in the competitive industries in which IonQ and Lightsynq operate, including development of competing technologies; IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to deliver, and customers' ability to generate, value from IonQ and Lightsynq's offerings; IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to deliver higher speed, fidelity gates, and multi-nodal qubit operations with fewer errors, enhance information transfer and network accuracy, or reduce noise and errors; IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to sell effectively to government entities and large enterprises; changes in laws and regulations affecting IonQ, Lightsynq, and their suppliers' businesses; IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to implement their business plans, forecasts, roadmaps and other expectations, to identify and realize partnerships and opportunities, and to engage new and existing customers; IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to effectively enter new markets; IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to deliver services and products within currently anticipated timelines; IonQ's and Lightsynq's inability to attract and retain key personnel; IonQ's ability to effectively integrate its acquisitions of Qubitekk, Inc. ID Quantique and Lightsynq's assets and close its acquisition of Lightsynq; IonQ's ability to hire and maintain the services of Lightsynq personnel; IonQ and Lightsynq's customers deciding or declining to extend contracts into new phases; the inability of IonQ and Lightsynq's suppliers to deliver components that meet expectations timely; changes in U.S. government spending or policy that may affect IonQ and Lightsynq's customers; and risks associated with U.S. government sales, including availability of funding and provisions that allow the government to unilaterally terminate or modify contracts for convenience; changes in laws and regulations affecting IonQ and Lightsynq's patents; and IonQ and Lightsynq's ability to maintain or obtain patent protection for its products and technology, including with sufficient breadth to provide a competitive advantage. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the IonQ's filings, including but not limited to those described in the "Risk Factors" section of IonQ's most recent periodic financial report (Forms 10-Q or 10-K) filed by IonQ with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and IonQ assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. IonQ does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations. IonQ may or may not choose to practice or otherwise use the inventions described in the issued patents in the future. View source version on Contacts IonQ Media contact: Jane Mazur press@ IonQ Investor Contact: investors@
Associated Press
25-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
IonQ Announces $22M Deal with EPB Establishing Chattanooga, Tennessee as the First Quantum Computing & Networking Hub in the U.S.
COLLEGE PARK, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Apr 25, 2025-- IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), the leading commercial quantum computing and networking company, today announced the joint development of a new quantum innovation center with EPB of Chattanooga, a leading energy and communications company. This strategic partnership will further establish Chattanooga as the catalyst in Tennessee's emergence as the national hub for quantum innovation. The EPB Quantum Center will house a state-of-the art IonQ Forte Enterprise quantum computer that will be shared by both companies. In addition, the Center will house the existing EPB Quantum Network which IonQ already supports – establishing Chattanooga, Tennessee as the first quantum computing & networking hub in the U.S. Through the partnership, IonQ will establish an office in Chattanooga to provide quantum computing, networking, and application development support and training. This will allow IonQ to provide specialized training for quantum developers and the two companies to work closely in jointly creating quantum computing algorithms designed for energy grid optimization. 'This partnership represents more than just a technological milestone, it's a pivotal step in building a quantum economy and IonQ ecosystem in Tennessee,' said Niccolo de Masi, President and CEO of IonQ. 'By delivering our Forte Enterprise-class quantum capabilities to Chattanooga, we're expanding our quantum access to customers across the state and working together to drive long-term economic growth for Chattanooga.' 'By establishing Chattanooga as the first U.S. hub for quantum computing and networking, we stand ready to work with companies and researchers across the nation to accelerate the development of real-world applications for quantum technology,' said David Wade, EPB CEO. 'Our mission-driven effort to enhance quality of life for our community by playing a catalytic role in the development of new quantum technologies aligns with the national priority of developing quantum technologies for security, business optimization and global competitiveness.' IonQ's Forte Enterprise system is a powerful, data center-ready quantum computer designed with a low energy profile, rack-mounted form factor and minimal environmental isolation requirements. As IonQ's highest performing quantum computer, Forte Enterprise delivers an algorithmic qubit count of #AQ36 and industry-leading gate and measurement accuracy that enable Forte Enterprise to tackle large problems and real-world commercial applications that drive business value. The addition of an IonQ quantum computer in the EPB Quantum Center adds to IonQ's growing global footprint, with quantum systems in Basel, Switzerland and Rome, NY, and IonQ data centers in Maryland, Washington state and Switzerland. Today's news marks the latest step in IonQ's continued presence in Tennessee and builds on the company's longstanding partnerships with local companies and academic institutions, including the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. IonQ and Ansys achieved a major quantum computing milestone with quantum computing outperforming classical computing when designing important life-saving medical devices. The quantum optimization method which this achievement was based on was pioneered at the Tennessee-based Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and successfully implemented on IonQ quantum computers. The company is also the primary technology partner for the EPB Quantum Network further expanding its role in advancing regional quantum networking technologies. To learn more about IonQ and its latest innovations, visit About IonQ IonQ, Inc. is a leader in the quantum computing and networking industries, delivering high-performance systems aimed at solving the world's largest and most complex commercial and research use cases. IonQ's current generation quantum computers, IonQ Forte and IonQ Forte Enterprise, are the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems, boasting 36 algorithmic qubits. The company's innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in Newsweek's 2025 Excellence Index 1000, Forbes' 2025 Most Successful Mid-Cap Companies list, and Built In's 2025 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in Washington DC and Seattle, respectively. Available through all major cloud providers, IonQ is making quantum computing more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at About EPB EPB is a customer-focused technology company that delivers innovative energy and communications solutions to the Chattanooga area in pursuit of its mission to enhance the quality of life for the community it serves. In 2010, EPB completed a 100% fiber optic network accessible to all its customers as the basis for launching America's first community-wide Gig speed internet. The company still operates the world's fastest community-wide internet service today at speeds up to 25 Gig. EPB also utilizes Chattanooga's fiber optic network as the communications backbone for the most advanced and highly automated power distribution system in the United States. In 2022, EPB continued its commitment to keeping Chattanooga on the cutting edge by establishing our nation's first commercially available quantum network—EPB Quantum Network℠ . This effort aligns local job creation efforts with the national priority to accelerate the commercialization of quantum technology. Since switching the lights on for its first electric customer in 1939, EPB has grown to serve nearly a half a million people across a 600-square-mile service area with cutting-edge infrastructure that integrates power distribution and telecommunications. At the same time, EPB keeps customer benefit at the center of all its efforts, earning recognition from J.D. Power as the #1 Mid-Sized Utility in the South for the last nine consecutive years based on customer satisfaction ratings. Learn more at IonQ Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Some of the forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words. Statements that are not historical in nature, including the terms 'will,' 'further,' 'building,' 'creating,' 'expanding,' 'long term' and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include those related to EPB and the region becoming a national leader in quantum innovation, computing and networking; the expected collaboration between IonQ and EPB; expansion of the market for access to IonQ's systems and the Tennessee economy; IonQ's quantum computing capabilities and plans; and the potential benefits of IonQ's strategic partnerships. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: IonQ's ability to implement its business plans and technical roadmap; changes in the industries in which IonQ operates, including development of competing technologies; changes in laws and regulations affecting IonQ's business; market adoption of quantum computing solutions and IonQ's products, services and solutions; any disruptions and other problems with IonQ's operations including research and development, hardware, systems, components or facilities; IonQ's ability to attract and retain its key employees and other personnel with specialized knowledge; any changes or inadequacies in IonQ's quantum computing and networking capabilities and plans; IonQ's relatively limited history in development quantum networking technologies; and the capability of our quantum systems and quantum networks to provide certain capabilities and advantages. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's filings, including but not limited to those described in the 'Risk Factors' section of IonQ's most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and other documents filed by IonQ from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and IonQ assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. IonQ does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations. IonQ may or may not choose to practice or otherwise use the inventions described in the issued patents in the future. View source version on CONTACT: IonQ Media contact: Jane Mazur [email protected] Investor Contact: [email protected] Contact: Sophie Moore [email protected] KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA TENNESSEE MARYLAND INDUSTRY KEYWORD: AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING OTHER SCIENCE AUTOMOTIVE RESEARCH SOFTWARE NETWORKS INTERNET HARDWARE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGY OTHER ENERGY UTILITIES ALTERNATIVE ENERGY ENERGY OTHER MANUFACTURING GENERAL AUTOMOTIVE SOURCE: IonQ Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 04/25/2025 09:50 AM/DISC: 04/25/2025 09:52 AM
Business Wire
25-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
IonQ Announces $22M Deal with EPB Establishing Chattanooga, Tennessee as the First Quantum Computing & Networking Hub in the U.S.
COLLEGE PARK, Md.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), the leading commercial quantum computing and networking company, today announced the joint development of a new quantum innovation center with EPB of Chattanooga, a leading energy and communications company. This strategic partnership will further establish Chattanooga as the catalyst in Tennessee's emergence as the national hub for quantum innovation. The EPB Quantum Center will house a state-of-the art IonQ Forte Enterprise quantum computer that will be shared by both companies. In addition, the Center will house the existing EPB Quantum Network which IonQ already supports – establishing Chattanooga, Tennessee as the first quantum computing & networking hub in the U.S. Through the partnership, IonQ will establish an office in Chattanooga to provide quantum computing, networking, and application development support and training. This will allow IonQ to provide specialized training for quantum developers and the two companies to work closely in jointly creating quantum computing algorithms designed for energy grid optimization. 'This partnership represents more than just a technological milestone, it's a pivotal step in building a quantum economy and IonQ ecosystem in Tennessee,' said Niccolo de Masi, President and CEO of IonQ. 'By delivering our Forte Enterprise-class quantum capabilities to Chattanooga, we're expanding our quantum access to customers across the state and working together to drive long-term economic growth for Chattanooga.' "By establishing Chattanooga as the first U.S. hub for quantum computing and networking, we stand ready to work with companies and researchers across the nation to accelerate the development of real-world applications for quantum technology,' said David Wade, EPB CEO. 'Our mission-driven effort to enhance quality of life for our community by playing a catalytic role in the development of new quantum technologies aligns with the national priority of developing quantum technologies for security, business optimization and global competitiveness.' IonQ's Forte Enterprise system is a powerful, data center-ready quantum computer designed with a low energy profile, rack-mounted form factor and minimal environmental isolation requirements. As IonQ's highest performing quantum computer, Forte Enterprise delivers an algorithmic qubit count of #AQ36 and industry-leading gate and measurement accuracy that enable Forte Enterprise to tackle large problems and real-world commercial applications that drive business value. The addition of an IonQ quantum computer in the EPB Quantum Center adds to IonQ's growing global footprint, with quantum systems in Basel, Switzerland and Rome, NY, and IonQ data centers in Maryland, Washington state and Switzerland. Today's news marks the latest step in IonQ's continued presence in Tennessee and builds on the company's longstanding partnerships with local companies and academic institutions, including the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. IonQ and Ansys achieved a major quantum computing milestone with quantum computing outperforming classical computing when designing important life-saving medical devices. The quantum optimization method which this achievement was based on was pioneered at the Tennessee-based Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and successfully implemented on IonQ quantum computers. The company is also the primary technology partner for the EPB Quantum Network further expanding its role in advancing regional quantum networking technologies. To learn more about IonQ and its latest innovations, visit About IonQ IonQ, Inc. is a leader in the quantum computing and networking industries, delivering high-performance systems aimed at solving the world's largest and most complex commercial and research use cases. IonQ's current generation quantum computers, IonQ Forte and IonQ Forte Enterprise, are the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems, boasting 36 algorithmic qubits. The company's innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in Newsweek's 2025 Excellence Index 1000, Forbes' 2025 Most Successful Mid-Cap Companies list, and Built In's 2025 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in Washington DC and Seattle, respectively. Available through all major cloud providers, IonQ is making quantum computing more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at About EPB EPB is a customer-focused technology company that delivers innovative energy and communications solutions to the Chattanooga area in pursuit of its mission to enhance the quality of life for the community it serves. In 2010, EPB completed a 100% fiber optic network accessible to all its customers as the basis for launching America's first community-wide Gig speed internet. The company still operates the world's fastest community-wide internet service today at speeds up to 25 Gig. EPB also utilizes Chattanooga's fiber optic network as the communications backbone for the most advanced and highly automated power distribution system in the United States. In 2022, EPB continued its commitment to keeping Chattanooga on the cutting edge by establishing our nation's first commercially available quantum network—EPB Quantum Network℠ . This effort aligns local job creation efforts with the national priority to accelerate the commercialization of quantum technology. Since switching the lights on for its first electric customer in 1939, EPB has grown to serve nearly a half a million people across a 600-square-mile service area with cutting-edge infrastructure that integrates power distribution and telecommunications. At the same time, EPB keeps customer benefit at the center of all its efforts, earning recognition from J.D. Power as the #1 Mid-Sized Utility in the South for the last nine consecutive years based on customer satisfaction ratings. Learn more at IonQ Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Some of the forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking words. Statements that are not historical in nature, including the terms 'will,' 'further,' 'building,' 'creating,' 'expanding,' 'long term' and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include those related to EPB and the region becoming a national leader in quantum innovation, computing and networking; the expected collaboration between IonQ and EPB; expansion of the market for access to IonQ's systems and the Tennessee economy; IonQ's quantum computing capabilities and plans; and the potential benefits of IonQ's strategic partnerships. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: IonQ's ability to implement its business plans and technical roadmap; changes in the industries in which IonQ operates, including development of competing technologies; changes in laws and regulations affecting IonQ's business; market adoption of quantum computing solutions and IonQ's products, services and solutions; any disruptions and other problems with IonQ's operations including research and development, hardware, systems, components or facilities; IonQ's ability to attract and retain its key employees and other personnel with specialized knowledge; any changes or inadequacies in IonQ's quantum computing and networking capabilities and plans; IonQ's relatively limited history in development quantum networking technologies; and the capability of our quantum systems and quantum networks to provide certain capabilities and advantages. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties disclosed in the Company's filings, including but not limited to those described in the 'Risk Factors' section of IonQ's most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and other documents filed by IonQ from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and IonQ assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. IonQ does not give any assurance that it will achieve its expectations. IonQ may or may not choose to practice or otherwise use the inventions described in the issued patents in the future.
Straits Times
25-04-2025
- Automotive
- Straits Times
Torque Shop: How to use the electronic handbrake
Instead of a handbrake lever (right), most cars now have an electric switch. PHOTOS: CARGURUS, MAZDA Cars used to have that lever known as the handbrake. These days, it has been replaced by an electric switch. How does this work and can I use it in an emergency? As a regulated industry requirement, automotive manufacturers were obligated to fit a handbrake in every car in the past. It harnessed muscle power to mechanically actuate the brakes on at least one pair of wheels, usually the rear, through a system of steel-wire rope cables and linkage rods. The handbrake was lockable and served to ensure the vehicle was stationary, even on slopes. It functions primarily as a parking brake, but can be used in an emergency, such as when the foot brake fails. Rally and stunt drivers also use the handbrake lever to induce oversteer when negotiating hairpin bends or to spin the car around while in motion. Currently, the majority of cars incorporate a switch instead of a lever or pedal. Known as the electromechanical parking brake (EPB), it takes over the full function of locking one pair of wheels and must not be mistaken as duplicating the P-position transmission lock. When the switch is flicked, an electric drive mechanically actuates the brakes, be it shoes on a drum brake system or the pads on disc brakes. In either of these arrangements, the EPB shares the friction braking elements (shoes or pads) with the primary hydraulic system. On some cars, a separate, dedicated calliper and pad assembly is mounted on the hubs of the rear wheels to perform the EPB functions. Whenever the driver flicks the switch once, the locking function will be activated but only at speeds below 3kmh. Above this speed, EPB can be applied in an emergency by flicking and holding the switch. In such an event, the car's stability control system will immediately intervene, and by using its full network of dynamic sensors, even apply the front brakes selectively if necessary to maintain stability. This means that rally-style handbrake flicks or spins will not be possible with EPB. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Yahoo
DPS deploys new executive protection K-9
Feb. 20—AUSTIN — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is proud to announce its newly certified Executive Protection Bureau (EPB) K-9 Magnum, a one-year-old Belgian Malinois. Magnum came to DPS from Poland and is trained to detect threats, identify explosives and enhance security operations. As part of EPB, Magnum will play a vital role in safeguarding state officials and dignitaries. "Adding Magnum to the Executive Protection Bureau ensures we continue to provide the highest level of security for Texas leaders," DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin said in a news release. "This highly trained K-9 is an invaluable asset, solidifying both detection and deterrence capabilities in our security operations." Magnum replaces K-9 Jake, who made history in November 2018 as the first Explosive Ordinance Detection K-9 to be assigned to EPB. Jake retired in November 2024. Magnum completed a rigorous 12-week training program in explosive identification and will now be stationed with his handler in the Capitol region. More About DPS' K-9 Unit DPS houses one of the nation's top K-9 programs, consisting of 88 total personnel, including 76 handlers comprised of 52 narcotic detection, 10 explosive detection and 14 tracking canines. The teams include several German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds, Belgian Malinois, Labrador Retrievers and a Vizsla. Training is conducted by DPS' K-9 trainers, who bring years of expertise in canine behavior and tactical operations. These trainers are dedicated to shaping both handlers and their canine partners into cohesive, effective teams capable of excelling in high-pressure situations. The rigorous training meets the highest standard of operational readiness and public safety excellence. More About DPS' EPB Unit DPS' Executive Protection Bureau (EPB)—originally known as the Governor's Protection Detail—was established under former Governor Preston Smith in the early 1970s. Since its inception, EPB has expanded its mission under DPS Homeland Security Operations to focus on risk management, threat assessment and security planning for the Governor of Texas, the Governor's Mansion and other elected officials as well as visiting foreign, federal and state dignitaries traveling in the state of Texas. Assignments within EPB can take personnel all over the state, country and world as they protect the Governor and other state leaders both at home and abroad. Click here to view pictures of Magnum and his training.
