John LuddyVice President, National Security Policy

John Luddy has served as Vice President for National Security Policy at the Aerospace Industries Association since 2015. He is responsible for developing AIA’s national security agenda, and for planning and executing advocacy efforts to support it.

Before joining AIA, Luddy directed Aerojet Rocketdyne’s government relations efforts as Vice President of Washington Operations. Prior to joining Aerojet, Luddy ran his own consulting practice for nine years, providing business development, market analysis, and legislative advocacy services to clients ranging from America’s largest aerospace companies to technology startups.

Luddy began his Washington career in 1992 as a defense analyst with the Heritage Foundation, specializing in power projection, readiness, and personnel issues. He served for six years in the United States Senate, as a senior defense aide to two subcommittee chairmen on the Armed Services Committee, and as Senior Policy Advisor to a member of Senate leadership. He also served in the Office of the Secretary of Defense as a special assistant for legislative affairs, spearheading DOD’s Congressional outreach on missile defense, strategic weapons, and international security policies and programs.

Luddy holds a Master’s degree in international relations from Tufts University’s Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, a Bachelor’s degree in history from Bates College, and is a graduate of the U.S. Army’s Ranger and Airborne Schools. He served on active duty as a Marine Corps infantry officer, and in Reserve policy, operations, and public affairs assignments.