Why It Matters
Simulation Technologies Inc.’s federal lobbying debut represents a strategic bet on sustained congressional demand for defense simulation capabilities. The company targets the most consequential funding vehicles—the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and defense appropriations bills—positioning itself to influence billions in annual defense spending.
The timing is critical. Congress is intensely focused on modernizing military readiness, integrating artificial intelligence into training systems, and developing digital twin technologies for military assets. Recent hearings on cyber capabilities, missile defense modernization, and information network defense underscore the Pentagon’s reliance on sophisticated simulation for developing and testing complex systems.
By hiring Maynard Nexsen PC—a firm already representing simulation and defense contractors—the company gains immediate access to established relationships on appropriations and armed services committees. However, competition is intense, with The National Center for Simulation, Ansys Inc., and numerous defense contractors competing for the same funding pool.
By the Numbers
Simulation Technologies Inc. registered its first lobbying engagement on January 27, 2025, with no prior federal advocacy history.
The company retained Maynard Nexsen PC, which has generated approximately $2.65 million in fees across 23 clients between 2023 and 2025. The firm represents several simulation companies, including Engineering and Computer Simulations Inc. and CFI Custom Military Solutions.
The lobbying team consists of James Carter Wells, who has no documented congressional experience and represents only Simulation Technologies Inc. as of 2025.
The Agenda
Simulation Technologies Inc. is targeting the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), defense appropriations, and discretionary grant opportunities within defense and science/technology sectors.
Key targets include the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for 2026, the Defense Technology Hubs Act of 2025, and cybersecurity modernization efforts. Recent congressional activity reflects strong bipartisan interest in simulation capabilities, with lawmakers pursuing missile defense modernization and AI integration into military operations.
Florida lawmakers have specifically advocated for the Army’s simulation programs in Orlando, highlighting the industry’s strategic importance.
Broader Context
Congressional focus on defense modernization and technological superiority directly aligns with simulation capabilities. The Senate Armed Services Committee held hearings on integrating AI into military cyber operations, while another hearing linked modeling and simulation with securing AI systems.
Key legislative vehicles authorize billions for defense procurement and research, while S.1978 aims to establish regional defense technology hubs. Senators Cramer and Sullivan introduced the GOLDEN DOME Act for missile defense modernization, requiring extensive modeling and simulation capabilities.
Between The Lines
Recent congressional hearings underscore simulation’s strategic importance. The Senate examined AI cyber capabilities, while the House explored securing artificial intelligence through modeling. The committee also held hearings on defending the DoD information network using zero-trust architecture—heavily reliant on simulation validation.
Member communications reveal strong political support. Florida lawmakers publicly advocated for maintaining the Army’s simulation office in Orlando, while Senator Fischer raised concerns about spectrum interference with military radar systems.
Competitive Landscape
The federal advocacy space is crowded. The National Center for Simulation consistently lobbies for modeling and simulation funding, while Ansys Inc. advocates for advanced simulation provisions in defense acts.
Other competitors include Trideum Corp., Torch Technologies Inc., and Parsons Corp.—all vying for simulation-related funding in the same legislative vehicles.
The Bottom Line
Simulation Technologies Inc. enters federal lobbying at a moment of elevated congressional interest in defense simulation capabilities. Congress is actively prioritizing simulation technology for military readiness, AI integration, and cybersecurity—areas directly aligned with the company’s focus. However, significant competition from established contractors already lobbying on similar issues means success will depend on effectively differentiating the company’s value proposition while navigating intense competition for defense dollars.
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