Why it Matters
The defense drone company Auterion is enhancing its influence in defense technology funding by switching to the major lobbying powerhouse Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck. The company moved from Efrus Federal Advisors LLC on January 11, signifying its ambition to play a larger role in defense policy discussions.
By the Numbers
Auterion’s new team at Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP includes four experienced lobbyists:
- Brandt Garrett Anderson: Former National Security Adviser to Sen. Todd Young
- Jessica Ann Lewis: 15 years of congressional service, including Senate Foreign Relations Committee
- Greta Hanson Joynes: Nearly 15 years in the House, former Deputy Chief of Staff to Rep. John Shimkus
- Maxwell O’Neil Huntley: Eight years of congressional experience, including House Armed Services Committee
Auterion has been lobbying since 2019, consistently focusing on defense and homeland security issues.
Broader Context
Congress is concentrating on reducing Chinese drone dependence and enhancing domestic capabilities. Multiple bills are addressing supply chain security and domestic manufacturing incentives. Recent congressional hearings have underscored the urgency of scaling secure drone technology without Chinese components. The “Blue UAS” initiative is designed to accelerate the adoption of trusted drone systems.
The Agenda
Auterion is lobbying on issues related to funding and support for defense technologies and operating systems. The company develops open-source software platforms for drones and autonomous systems, focusing on avoiding vendor lock-in and promoting interoperability for military users. Their previous lobbying has covered supply chain security, U.S. drone manufacturing, and DOD software cyber resiliency.
Competitive Landscape
The drone lobbying arena is crowded with major defense contractors and specialized technology firms. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Shield AI Inc. are already lobbying heavily for autonomous systems funding, competing with smaller companies like Saronic Technologies and Firestorm Labs. The Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International advocates for the broader industry.
Between The Lines
Congress is presently considering multiple relevant bills, including the Drones for America Act and SkyFoundry Act. Recent hearings on Small Uas and Counter-Small Uas highlighted technology gaps and requirements. Rep. Pat Fallon has warned about falling behind China in defensive drone capabilities. Sen. James Lankford introduced border drone threat assessment legislation.
The Bottom Line
Auterion’s lobbying upgrade positions the company to influence defense technology policy discussions. The timing aligns with congressional urgency surrounding drone security and domestic manufacturing. Success will depend on navigating a competitive landscape while the FY2026 defense authorization process unfolds.
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