Why it Matters

Apex Technology Inc., a defense tech newcomer, is intensifying its presence in Washington by hiring Anchor and Arrow Strategies for lobbying on key defense issues. This strategic move from one lobbying firm to two within just five months signals the company’s aggressive push into federal contracting as Congress debates historic levels of space defense spending.

By the Numbers

  • Lobbying Spend: $30,000 total through July 2025
  • All external lobbying conducted through two firms
  • Lobbying activities commenced in April 2025
  • No internal lobbying was reported

Lobbying Team

  • John O’Dwyer Noonan: Former senior adviser to Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR)
  • Tyler Christian Jensen: Former legislative assistant to Rep. Adam Smith (D-WA)
  • Two additional lobbyists from previous firm Tanagra Enterprises

Broader Context

Major space defense initiatives are transforming the sector, particularly with President Trump’s proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill” that aims to boost Space Force funding to nearly $40 billion in FY 2026—a significant $11.3 billion increase from current levels. The Golden Dome missile defense project is allocated $25 billion in proposed funding amidst rising international threats, highlighting the urgent need for robust defense capabilities.

The Agenda

Apex is focusing on defense appropriations and commercial space manufacturing issues, lobbying on FY 2025 and FY 2026 defense appropriations bills, as well as H.R.1968 and H.R.1 related legislation. While no specific new legislation was identified in the Anchor and Arrow registration, the firm emphasizes defense acquisition reform and innovation policies.

Competitive Landscape

Notably, top defense tech firms are also lobbying on similar issues, with Palantir Technologies spending $110,000 and Epirus Inc. investing $250,000 on defense acquisition reform, while Saronic Technologies allocated $160,000 on comparable defense issues—all leveraging the same lobbyist team, highlighting a concentrated lobbying network.

Between The Lines

The timing of Apex’s initiatives indicates that the company seeks to capitalize on major contracting opportunities ahead, particularly as Trump’s reconciliation bill must be passed by July 4, 2025. The Golden Dome program could introduce entirely new categories of procurement for space-based defense, prompting increased competition among providers.

The Bottom Line

Apex Technology is making a substantial bet on federal space defense contracts, capitalizing on unprecedented increases in Space Force funding. The company’s success will depend on effectively navigating complex appropriations processes while competing against established defense industry giants.