Edward M. Fortunato

Ed Fortunato is the Executive Vice President of Business Development at Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI), where he leads strategy and growth initiatives across the defense and space portfolios.

Before joining Safran DSI, Ed held senior leadership positions at top defense companies. At Lockheed Martin, he served as Vice President of Enterprise Operations, overseeing all Army Aviation programs and mission systems from Washington, D.C., and driving strategic initiatives for global business growth.

Previously, Ed led Government Relations at Raytheon Corporation, where he managed relationships with Congress, state and local governments, and industry associations. His efforts resulted in $3 billion in annual revenue growth, a 37% increase in shareholder value, and helped facilitate Raytheon’s merger with United Technologies.

Ed also served as Senior Vice President at Orbital ATK, where he directed Washington Operations for defense, NASA and international strategies. Under his leadership, the company achieved $2 billion in revenue growth, secured $7 billion in annual appropriations and delivered a 120% return in shareholder value.

Earlier in his career at Honeywell, Ed managed aerospace programs and government relations, including leading a joint venture with Pratt & Whitney for the Improved Turbine Engine Program.

A former U.S. Army Aviation and Acquisition officer, Ed served as the Secretary of the Army’s representative to Congress for aviation programs and played a key role in shaping legislative strategies for National Defense bills. He was a combat leader during Operation Desert Shield/Storm, earning the Bronze Star Medal.

Ed holds an MBA with honors from George Washington University and a BS in Business from George Mason University. He serves on the Board of Directors for the National Defense Industrial Association and the George Mason University Business School Advisory Board. Ed is a commercial-rated aviator, competitive sculler and actively involved in charitable organizations.

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