Oklahoma City, OK – Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) last week hosted a high-level roundtable in Oklahoma City, bringing leaders from across the aerospace and defense supply chain and Congress together to discuss policy priorities shaping the future of the industry. The event featured Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK), the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee who also represents key aerospace and defense installations in Oklahoma’s fourth congressional district. The roundtable also included Senator James Lankford (R-OK), whose leadership on trade and regulatory issues continues to shape national aerospace policy.
“Chairman Cole and Senator Lankford’s engagements are a powerful reminder that policymakers want to hear directly from industry—and that together, we can shape smart and effective policies that strengthen America’s aerospace capabilities,” said Eric Fanning, AIA President & CEO. “Chairman Cole is a long-time champion of on time and sufficient federal funding that provides companies with the certainty they need to deliver for both the warfighter and the American people. Senator Lankford has been an advocate for policies that help grow the American aerospace and defense industry, and we thank them both for joining us.”
“The aerospace and defense supply chain industries are vital to American innovation – driving our economy, strengthening our national security by protecting our skies, and ensuring the United States remains a leader on the world stage. As Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and the representative for key defense bases and installations in Oklahoma, I have learned this first-hand. Therefore, throughout my time in Congress, sustained congressional funding for this industry has been a priority of mine, as I recognize it as not only an investment in our economy, but also in the safety, defense, and future of our nation,” said Congressman Cole. “I would like to thank the Aerospace Industries Association and Kratos for hosting this roundtable, as it provided an important forum to discuss these critical issues, especially during this time of uncertainty on the world stage.”
“Oklahoma plays a critical and ever-increasing role in America’s aerospace and defense sector, and our national security,” said Senator Lankford. “At last week’s roundtable, we heard directly from industry leaders about what’s working and what needs to be fixed. I’llcontinue working in the Senate to make sure our policies support American aerospace companies, strengthen our national security, and maintain America’s leadership in air and space.”
“Kratos is proud to contribute to the defense industrial base from our aircraft factory in Oklahoma, where we are building and delivering uncrewed jet aircraft systems and supporting jobs across the state and the national supply chain,” said Steve Fendley, President of Kratos Unmanned Systems Division. “The progress we’ve made in Oklahoma would not be possible without the leadership, partnership, and commitment of leaders like Chairman Cole and Senator Lankford. Their engagement in AIA’s roundtable at our facility underscores the vital role Oklahoma plays in strengthening our national defense, and we are deeply grateful for his continued support.”
Now in its second year of expanded outreach, AIA’s supply chain engagement strategy emphasizes advocacy, collaboration, and connectivity with government. As part of the engagement program, the Oklahoma City roundtable provided a platform for manufacturers, operators, and technology providers to share insights on pressing issues such as trade and tariffs, defense funding, acquisition and foreign military sales reform, and workforce challenges and opportunities.
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