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Billionaire Profile
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Global Rank
#751

Image: Various | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Neal Blue & family

CEO, Defense
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.498B
Estimated based on Defense stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
90
Source
Defense
Industry
Technology
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Neal Blue is an American billionaire businessman, chairman, and CEO of General Atomics, a defense and high-technology company. Born in 1935, he has led General Atomics since acquiring it with his brother Linden in 1986. His career has been marked by innovation in aerospace and technology, including the development of the MQ-1 Predator drone. Blue, a Yale University graduate and U.S. Air Force veteran, has grown General Atomics into a global leader in defense, energy, and advanced technologies. With an estimated net worth of $5.5 billion, Blue's leadership has solidified the company's position in the defense industry.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

James Neal Blue was born in 1935 in Meeker, Colorado. He attended Yale University and was a member of the Air Force Reserve Officers' Training Corps during college. Neal Blue and his brother, Linden Blue, owned Colorado and Western Properties in the 1970s.

Rise to Success

In 1986, Neal and Linden Blue acquired General Atomics from Chevron Oil for $60 million. Under Neal Blue's leadership as chairman and CEO, General Atomics transformed into a leading defense and technology company. The company is known for its development of unmanned aerial systems, including the MQ-1 Predator drone, and its work in nuclear energy and advanced technologies.

Key Business Strategies

General Atomics focuses on research, development, and manufacturing in defense, energy, and advanced technology sectors. The company has expanded its reach globally, supplying advanced technologies to the U.S. military and international clients. Blue's leadership has emphasized long-term investments in cutting-edge research and development.

Philanthropy

Information on Neal Blue's specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts is not readily available in the search results. However, Blue has been involved in supporting educational and community initiatives.

Career Milestones

1970s

Colorado and Western Properties

Owned Colorado and Western Properties firm with his brother Linden Blue.

1986

Acquisition of General Atomics

Acquired General Atomics from Chevron Oil for $60 million.

2013

International von Karman Wings Award

Received the award for innovation.

2023

John R. Alison Award

Received the John R. Alison Award.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

General Atomics Sciences Education Foundation

Undisclosed

Co-founder of the foundation.

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