Why It Matters

RTX Corp. is expanding its lobbying arsenal precisely when Congress is reshaping defense spending and acquisition rules. The aerospace giant faces a complex challenge: capitalizing on record defense budgets and a commercial aviation boom while navigating Pentagon procurement reforms that could disrupt traditional contractor hierarchies. By hiring O’Keeffe Shahmoradi Strategies LLC—a firm specializing in commercial aviation, transportation, and infrastructure policy—RTX is positioning its Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney divisions to influence critical FAA modernization, airport capacity, and air traffic control debates. The legislative solution RTX seeks involves ensuring favorable treatment in the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, robust funding for missile defense under the GOLDEN DOME Act, and streamlined acquisition pathways that don’t disadvantage established prime contractors.

By the Numbers

RTX Corp. has filed 377 lobbying disclosures totaling approximately $99.5 million over five years since April 2020. The bulk—$76.1 million—flows through its in-house team handling defense authorization, tax policy, and aviation regulation. RTX outsources additional work to 31 external firms, with top partners including American Defense International Inc. ($1.51 million), Invariant LLC ($1.63 million), and Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP ($1.44 million).

In the fourth quarter of 2025, RTX added O’Keeffe Shahmoradi Strategies LLC for $50,000—marking a strategic shift. While RTX’s existing external lobbyists focus on defense and tax issues, O’Keeffe Shahmoradi specializes in commercial aviation, transportation, and infrastructure. The firm represents American Association of Airport Executives, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, and Southwest Airlines Co.

The Agenda

RTX Corp. did not disclose specific issues for the O’Keeffe Shahmoradi engagement. However, RTX’s lobbying history shows the company prioritizes defense authorization and appropriations bills, weapons programs like the F-35 Lightning II and F135 engine, missile defense systems, and foreign military sales. RTX also lobbies on tax policy (GILTI, BEAT, FDII provisions and R&D tax credits) and regulatory issues including FAA reauthorization, aviation safety, spectrum allocation, and cybersecurity standards. The new firm’s commercial aviation expertise aligns with RTX’s Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney divisions, which supply the global airline industry.

Broader Context

The 119th Congress is actively advancing legislation impacting RTX’s portfolio. The FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act and Department of Defense Appropriations bills are moving through Congress, while the GOLDEN DOME Act of 2025 advances missile defense modernization directly aligning with RTX’s Raytheon division.

The House Armed Services Committee held hearings on "Reforming Defense Acquisition to Deliver Capability at the Speed of Relevance," signaling Congress intends to reduce bureaucratic delays—presenting both opportunities and competitive threats for major contractors. Congress also considers resolutions to disapprove arms sales to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Between The Lines

Individual members are championing aerospace interests. Representative Ann Wagner (R-MO) secured appropriations funding for St. Louis-manufactured F-15EX aircraft, powered by Pratt & Whitney engines. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) backed runway improvements and Collaborative Combat Aircraft development.

The Senate Armed Services Committee examined DoD missile defense activities and Foreign Military Sales system oversight, while the House Armed Services Committee reviewed missile defense program updates.

Competitive Landscape

RTX Corp. operates within a competitive aerospace lobbying ecosystem. The Aerospace Industries Association of America Inc. serves as the primary trade association, lobbying on FY 2026 defense bills, acquisition reform, and R&D tax expensing. Major competitors Boeing Co. and Airbus Group Inc. also lobby actively on the same legislative vehicles. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) has highlighted GE Aerospace funding, a direct competitor to RTX’s Pratt & Whitney division.

The Bottom Line

RTX’s $50,000 fourth quarter engagement with O’Keeffe Shahmoradi expands its commercial aviation advocacy as Congress debates defense authorization, missile defense modernization, and acquisition reform. This complements RTX’s $99.5 million five-year lobbying investment and reflects opportunities in booming commercial aviation demand amid uncertainty surrounding defense contractor policies under the new administration.

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