Why it Matters

The Syracuse-based drone detection company just expanded its Washington influence. Hidden Level Inc. hired heavyweight firm Hogan Lovells US LLP to lobby on drone airspace management and security. The move adds serious political firepower as Congress actively debates counter-drone legislation. Hidden Level already spent $390,000 lobbying since 2022, showing sustained commitment to policy influence.

By the Numbers

Hidden Level’s lobbying spending totals $390,000 across two firms since 2022. The company previously worked with Hogan Lovells (9 disclosures, 2022-2025) on appropriations and homeland security. It also used Cornerstone Government Affairs Inc. (7 disclosures, 2024-2025) for UAS detection legislation.

The new lobbying team includes two heavy hitters. Norman Bertram Coleman Jr. served as U.S. Senator from Minnesota (2003-2009) on key committees. Lisa Michelle Ellman chairs Hogan Lovells’ global drone practice and served in the Obama administration.

Broader Context

Drone threats are escalating nationwide, prompting urgent congressional action. Recent incidents include unauthorized drone activity over U.S. military installations. Russian drone incursions into NATO airspace have heightened security concerns. The Pentagon remains “mystified” by new drone sightings over military bases.

Congress has responded with multiple hearings examining detection system gaps. Lawmakers are pushing comprehensive counter-drone legislation as threats multiply.

The Agenda

Hidden Level is lobbying on “drone airspace management and security capabilities.” The company specializes in passive radar and RF sensing for drone detection. Their technology serves NASA and the Department of Defense for protecting critical infrastructure.

Coleman’s experience with Anschutz Entertainment Group Inc. on drone rules for concert venues adds relevant expertise. Ellman previously lobbied for Major League Baseball and Apple Inc. on UAS regulation.

Competitive Landscape

Multiple drone companies are lobbying Congress on similar issues. WhiteFox Defense Technologies Inc. focuses on drone airspace security. Epirus Inc. lobbies on domestic counter-UAS authorities.

Detect Inc. works on counter drone detection and foreign object notification. SkySafe Inc. lobbies on FAA reauthorization and drone detection. The crowded field shows intense industry competition for policy influence.

Between The Lines

Congress is moving aggressively on counter-drone legislation this session. Key bills include H.R.5061 – Counter-UAS Authority Security, Safety, and Reauthorization Act and S.1250 – SHIELD U Act for airport protection.

Rep. Brad Finstad introduced legislation codifying Trump’s executive order on unauthorized drones. Sen. Mike Lee champions expanding counter-drone authorities to state and local levels. Sen. Kevin Cramer highlighted North Dakota’s defense testing ecosystem.

Multiple committee hearings examined small UAS threats and detection gaps. The Senate Judiciary Committee focused on law enforcement tools and safeguards.

The Bottom Line

Hidden Level’s lobbying expansion comes as Washington prioritizes drone security. The company’s technology aligns with congressional priorities for passive detection systems. With experienced advocates and growing legislative momentum, Hidden Level is positioned to influence emerging counter-drone policy. The investment reflects confidence in sustained government demand for detection capabilities.

All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!

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