Best Aerospace & Defense Consulting Services in the USA

United States Aerospace & Defense Consultants

The United States remains one of the world’s most advanced hubs for aerospace and defense innovation but that same complexity can make it difficult for organizations to find trusted, independent consulting partners. From supply chain strategy to regulatory approvals, aerospace and defense companies need seasoned experts who combine technical knowledge, operational frameworks, and battle-tested project delivery.

That’s why we’ve created this guide: to help you cut through generic listings and discover authentic, U.S.-rooted aerospace and defense consultancies that deliver measurable value. Whether you’re scaling up your defense manufacturing footprint, building UAV systems, or securing FAA compliance, these firms stand out for their proven results and founder-led expertise.

Methodology: How We Chose These USA-based Aerospace & Defense Consulting Services

To keep this list radically authentic, we applied a clear methodology:

✅ Research-driven: Every company listed here demonstrates publicly verifiable results, think client case studies, robust frameworks, or clear operating models.

✅ Client-reviewed: We only include firms with real-world client feedback or visible industry recognition that confirms ROI.

✅ Location-based: Every consultancy is rooted in the United States, with a founder or leadership team active in the region’s aerospace and defense sector.

🌟 US-Based Aerospace & Defense Consultants - Provider Spotlights

🚀 Defense Bridge Asia (DBA)

What they do:
Defense Bridge Asia supports U.S.-based companies seeking to expand into Asia-Pacific defense markets and vice versa. They specialize in export compliance, strategic partnerships, and market entry strategy for aerospace and defense manufacturers.

Who they work with:
Defense OEMs, UAV startups, aerospace supply chain firms.

Operating model:
DBA leverages a cross-border model combining U.S.-based legal and technical advisory with in-region partnership networks across Asia-Pacific.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 🌍 Deep dual-market expertise bridging U.S. and Asia defense channels.
  
  
• 📑 Proven frameworks for ITAR and EAR compliance.
  
  
• 🚀 Track record of helping small-to-midsize U.S. defense suppliers secure new export contracts.

Andre Rivier, Co-Founder & Managing Director of Defense Bridge Asia

Andre’s career arc bridges military operational leadership and strategic advisory roles. His co‑founded ventures clearly align with providing consulting support in defense sectors, leveraging his Army experience to advise on partnerships, international operations, and business strategy across the aerospace and defense domain

James Randy Johnson, Co-Founder of Defense Bridge Asia

James brings over 20 years in aerospace and defense market strategy, having led international expansion projects for Fortune 500 defense primes and smaller supply chain innovators. He’s known for his pragmatic, relationship-driven approach to unlocking complex markets and ensuring clients stay fully compliant with export control laws.

🚀 Patriot Industrial Partners

What they do:
Patriot Industrial Partners focuses on aerospace supply chain performance, with specialties in mergers, MRO advisory, and production ramp-up solutions.

Who they work with:
Tier 1 and Tier 2 aerospace manufacturers, MRO providers, PE-backed industrial firms.

Operating model:
Patriot runs a lean, partner-led structure that embeds senior advisors directly into client operations for hands-on turnaround and strategy implementation.

💡 Why they stand out:

• ⚙️ Proven turnaround of distressed aerospace operations.
  
  
• 🛫 Deep expertise in aerospace M&A integration.
  
  
• 📈 Operational frameworks that drive cost reduction and on-time delivery.

Alex Krutz, Founder & Managing Director of Patriot Industrial Partners

Alex is a recognized aerospace operations expert with a background spanning GE Aviation, Spirit AeroSystems, and large aerospace supply chain integrators. He’s known for bridging the gap between boardroom strategy and shop-floor results, often stepping in as interim COO for critical projects.

🚀 Vigilant Aerospace Systems, Inc.

What they do:
Vigilant Aerospace specializes in safety solutions for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), developing detect-and-avoid technologies and situational awareness software.

Who they work with:
UAV manufacturers, defense contractors, research institutions.

Operating model:
Vigilant operates as both a product developer and technical consulting partner, providing integration support and regulatory navigation for BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) operations.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 🛰️ Patented flight safety and detect-and-avoid technologies.
  
  
• 🚁 FAA collaboration for next-gen airspace integration.
  
  
• 🔍 Hands-on consulting for UAV certification and flight testing.

Kraettli Lawrence Epperson, Founder & CEO of Vigilant Aerospace Systems

Kraettli has a 20-year background in aerospace software, having co-developed multiple commercial airspace safety solutions. He’s known for combining deep regulatory insight with technical R&D, helping UAV innovators safely scale flight operations.

🚀 Sheldon Aerospace Consulting LLC

What they do:
Sheldon Aerospace Consulting offers specialized airworthiness certification, FAA DER services, and design engineering support for aerospace manufacturers.

Who they work with:
Aerospace OEMs, avionics manufacturers, defense contractors.

Operating model:
A tight-knit team of FAA DERs, consultants, and program managers provides on-demand technical certifications and engineering reviews.

💡 Why they stand out:

• ✈️ Direct FAA DER sign-off capabilities.
  
  
• 🗂️ Customizable project support for STCs and PMAs.
  
  
• 🏆 Known for helping startups navigate complex certification hurdles.

Alan Sheldon, Founder, Senior Management Consultant & Principal Auditor of Sheldon Aerospace Consulting

Alan is an FAA Designated Engineering Representative with decades of experience certifying aircraft systems and modifications. His firm reputation rests on helping manufacturers launch new designs under tight regulatory timelines.

🚀 Omnia Aerospace, LLC

What they do:
Omnia Aerospace delivers management consulting, product development support, and business strategy for the aerospace and defense sectors.

Who they work with:
Aerospace manufacturers, government contractors, tech startups.

Operating model:
Omnia integrates business consulting with technical program support helping firms scale from concept to delivery.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 💼 Proven strategy frameworks tailored for aerospace.
  
  
• ⚖️ Experience balancing DoD and civil aviation contracts.
  
  
• 🔗 Flexible consulting tiers for startups and mature primes alike.

Craig Spamer, Founder & Managing Director of Omnia Aerospace

Craig’s background combines engineering, program management, and business development at major aerospace primes. He’s known for championing growth-stage companies entering defense supply chains with rigorous program oversight.

🚀 Astra Consulting LLC

What they do:
Astra Consulting specializes in defense procurement, risk management, and supply chain optimization for aerospace and defense clients.

Who they work with:
DoD subcontractors, aerospace logistics firms, OEM supply chains.

Operating model:
Astra runs project-based and retainer models, with senior consultants embedded for strategic sourcing and procurement process redesign.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 🗝️ Proven sourcing and procurement cost savings.
  
  
• 🔒 Strong track record in defense risk compliance.
  
  
• ⚙️ Experience scaling small subcontractors for prime contracts.

David Walker, Founder & President of Astra Consulting LLC

David is a defense procurement specialist with extensive Pentagon contracting experience. He’s respected for helping mid-tier suppliers win and manage high-stakes DoD awards through disciplined process improvement.

🚀 O’Donnell Aerospace Consulting, LLC

What they do:
O’Donnell Aerospace provides aerospace certification consulting, DER services, and safety compliance support for the aviation sector.

Who they work with:
Aircraft manufacturers, cabin interiors companies, system suppliers.

Operating model:
O’Donnell Aerospace combines in-house FAA DER expertise with flexible on-demand project resourcing.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 📃 FAA ODA and DER consulting for complex mods.
  
  
• 🧩 End-to-end project support design to certification.
  
  
• 🛫 Strong relationships with FAA inspectors nationwide.

Michael O'Donnell, Founder & President of O’Donnell Aerospace Consulting

Michael brings more than two decades of experience working with major aircraft OEMs and interior modification firms. His leadership is defined by technical rigor and a collaborative approach to solving certification bottlenecks.

🚀 Treble One Aerospace Consulting

What they do:
Treble One Aerospace Consulting specializes in military and civil aircraft support, from program management to supply chain readiness assessments.

Who they work with:
DoD agencies, NATO allies, major defense primes.

Operating model:
Treble One offers both embedded consultancy and independent third-party assessments for readiness, compliance, and sustainment programs.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 🔍 In-depth sustainment and lifecycle cost analysis.
  
  
• ✈️ Experience managing complex military programs.
  
  
• 📊 Unique readiness frameworks adopted by DoD clients.

Brian Bullerman, Founder & Managing Partner of Treble One Aerospace Consulting

Brian is a retired USAF officer turned consultant, known for his strategic insight into sustainment and readiness programs. He’s trusted by defense clients for his clear-eyed program risk assessments and actionable recommendations.

🚀 Maine Aerospace Consulting, LLC

What they do:
Maine Aerospace Consulting delivers technical support for aircraft certification, modification programs, and STC approvals.

Who they work with:
Regional airlines, MROs, aerospace suppliers.

Operating model:
A flexible consulting model offers both remote and on-site DER engineering support.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 🧩 Specialist in STC development for unique aircraft mods.
  
  
• 📌 Regional expertise serving the Northeastern U.S.
  
  
• 🛠️ Practical solutions for small-to-midscale MRO projects.

David Rubenstein, Owner & Research Scientist of Maine Aerospace Consulting

David is an FAA DER with a track record spanning commercial and regional aviation. He’s known for supporting smaller carriers and suppliers with tailored certification pathways.

🚀 Savage Aerospace Consulting

What they do:
Savage Aerospace Consulting focuses on aerospace R&D strategy, NASA project consulting, and advanced manufacturing innovation.

Who they work with:
Space tech startups, NASA contractors, R&D-intensive aerospace firms.

Operating model:
Project-based R&D advisory and advanced technology roadmapping.

💡 Why they stand out:

• 🚀 Deep ties with NASA research programs.
  
  
• 🔬 Proven advanced manufacturing integration.
  
  
• 📄 Practical IP and funding advisory for startups.

Robert Savage, Founder & President of Savage Aerospace Consulting

Robert is a seasoned aerospace researcher with decades of NASA project leadership. He’s recognized for translating R&D breakthroughs into commercial aerospace applications.

Strategic Consulting Solutions for Aerospace and Defense Innovation

Aerospace and defense projects require far more than a cookie-cutter playbook, they demand specialist knowledge, proven frameworks, and a founder-led commitment to delivering results. Each of these consultancies exemplifies that standard, helping clients navigate everything from UAV certification to defense procurement and advanced manufacturing. Whether you're managing mission-critical logistics or integrating AI in defense tech, the right consulting partner can make or break your strategy. These experts don’t just follow protocol, they shape it.

At Digital reference, radical authenticity means more than transparency, it’s about creating trust through truth-telling, clarity, and courageous expertise tailored to complex industries like defense and aerospace. It’s how we cut through the noise and connect you with guides who walk their talk.

Achieve results with expertise, discover clear strategies, proven partners, and sector-specific insights to move faster and smarter. Dive into more insights from Digital Reference:

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