Why it Matters

hypersonic lobbying has moved in-house at Hermeus Corp: the Atlanta-based hypersonic aircraft company spent $145,000 in Q3 2025 and has invested over $1.8 million since 2023 to press Congress and federal agencies for FAA waivers and research funding.

Hermeus brought its lobbying efforts in-house after years of hiring external firms. The company previously worked with Holland & Knight LLP and Forbes Tate Partners LLC, shifting to internal government relations to advocate directly to Congress and federal regulators.

By the Numbers

  • Q3 2025 spending: $145,000 in-house lobbying
  • Historical investment: Over $1.8 million since bringing lobbying in-house in 2023
  • Previous firms: Three external lobbying partnerships from 2019–2025
  • Lead lobbyist: Lawrence Meehan, who has managed over $6 million in lobbying expenditures across defense and aerospace clients including RTX Corp. and Airbus U.S. Space & Defense Inc.

Broader Context

Congress has ramped up attention on hypersonic technology amid strategic competition with China and Russia. Multiple bills and hearings address commercial hypersonic flight and missile defense; the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024 included provisions relevant to advanced aircraft operations. A January 2025 Senate Armed Services hearing acknowledged evolving hypersonic threats, and lawmakers continue to consider funding and oversight measures on this issue.

The Agenda

Hermeus lobbied for an FAA waiver under section 927 of the FAA Reauthorization Act, and pushed for funding in H.R.1 and the FY2026 defense appropriations bill. Key legislation cited by the company includes H.R.477 for hypersonic research, H.R.3410 for civil supersonic flight, and H.R.4107 for missile defense.

Competitive Landscape

Other aerospace companies are also lobbying on hypersonic issues. Examples include Starfighters Space Inc. for hypersonic testing equipment, Stratolaunch LLC on NDAA testing provisions, and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Inc. on hypersonic weapons technology.

Between The Lines

Legislative efforts such as the MACH Act and the Golden Dome Act reflect congressional interest in establishing testing programs and missile defense measures. The National Airport Supersonic Readiness Act also mandates FAA studies on airport readiness for high-speed operations.

The Bottom Line

Hermeus is investing heavily in direct government relations as hypersonic technology gains congressional attention. The company’s in-house approach reflects confidence in navigating Washington’s policy landscape for emerging aerospace technologies and demonstrates broader industry momentum on hypersonic policy and funding.

Sources: Legis1 lobbying filings and bill summaries; Congress.gov for bill texts and hearings.