Former Raytheon exec takes defense reins at Oshkosh

Oshkosh Corp. has named John Urias executive vice president and president of Oshkosh Defense.

He will lead all aspects of the Wisconsin company’s global defense segment, including all tactical wheeled vehicle programs, new product development, vehicle life-cycle sustainment and aftermarket services, according to an Oct. 7 company announcement.

Before joining Oshkosh, Urias worked for Raytheon Co., where he most recently served as vice president of programs for Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems. In that role, he served as an adviser to senior international and domestic government officials.

He also identified and developed new business opportunities, supported international business efforts and was a key participant in national theater and security programs.

Urias is a retired Army major general who served as commanding general of the Joint Contracting Command – Iran/Afghanistan in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Urias has a master’s degree in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College, a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School, and a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from the University of California, Davis.