In the age of the ‘New Space Race,’ the stakes are high as more private entities and governmental bodies seek to stake their claim among the stars. NASA is full speed ahead with Project Artemis to reestablish a human presence on the moon, SpaceX will launch its Falcon 9 rocket set to carry space telescope and satellites to answer new cosmic questions and Starlink and its competitors are vying for their spots in low earth orbit. No matter the destination or application, the requirements for specialty manufacturing companies are evolving to meet increased demands and technological requirements.
The Partner Companies’ (TPC) advanced manufacturers across the U.S. are playing a critical role in providing the cutting-edge technologies that help make these missions possible. TPC’s advanced manufacturers have helped develop components for thermal infrared imaging systems, electronics chassis, and high-threshold gold coatings used in searchlight reflectors, covert filters, infrared imaging components, and more. These parts have been used in high-profile applications, such as the Double Asteroid Redirect Test (DART) mission.
In this article, we’ll explore how engineers, precision manufacturers, and quality assurance professionals across the country are keenly focused on tailored manufacturing solutions that push the boundaries of the aerospace industry while maintaining a secure supply chain.
Increased Demand Amid Trade Turbulence
The aerospace sector has emerged as a particularly dynamic force. In fact, the global aerospace manufacturing market is set to grow by $190.69 billion from 2024 to 2028 (Technavio). This increased demand has created opportunities for advanced manufacturers that have long served this sector. One area TPC has seen significant growth is in low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations.
Companies like Starlink are putting thousands of satellites in orbit, and people across the globe are using them to gain access to education, health services, and even communications during natural disasters. These satellites rely on sophisticated optical components for telecommunications, Earth observation, and advanced imaging systems.
This surge in demand coincides with a strategic shift in supply chain management, especially for critical minerals. As companies navigate geopolitical tensions like germanium trade restrictions from China and new tariffs, many are prioritizing U.S.-manufactured optical components to ensure supply chain security and maintain access to necessary materials and components.
In this changing trade environment, innovation and flexibility are key – helping safeguard supply chains, remain competitive in shifting global markets, and adapt swiftly to evolving economic conditions.
Manufacturers like Lattice Materials are one of the few U.S. manufacturers specializing in custom-grown silicon and germanium crystals used for infrared optics applied in sophisticated aerospace equipment. This consistent germanium supply allows a secure and traceable source for materials, which means they can meet tight customer requirements. As a result, Lattice is scaling production for bigger and more precise aerospace systems, which we expect to continue.
As companies turn to advanced manufacturers for more tailored products at a higher volume, advanced manufacturers should work closely with customers to provide flexibility and scale production.
Pushing Innovation Forward
Advanced manufacturing companies must deliver engineering and manufacturing solutions with the highest attention to detail, reliability, and durability to drive aerospace advancement.
Alongside these principles, comes the need for manufacturing solutions that can withstand more extreme force and energy levels, and that can handle the thermal cycles of space. Like most of the technology sector, there’s also a pressing need for parts that are lighter, more efficient, and cost-effective for the industry.
With TPC’s specialty of supplying optical components, there’s been a marked increase in demanding specifications – including hard-to-find sizes, unique orientations, custom electrical resistance, and special optical transmissions as companies seek optics with better performance to achieve greater precision in their work.
As engineers and advanced manufacturing leaders across the country embrace their unique advanced manufacturing expertise, they will be poised to shepherd the next phase of groundbreaking missions and technological advancements that push the boundaries of exploration and discovery.
Seizing the Moment
How can advanced manufacturers continue to capitalize on new opportunities within aerospace manufacturing? Zero in on their expertise, drive innovation for new applications and remain adaptable in times of uncertainty. They must uphold transparent communication with partners, allowing them to move from prototype to full scale production.
By remaining at the forefront of cutting-edge solutions, advanced manufacturers will continue to meet the evolving needs of the aerospace sector to break boundaries and forge new pathways.
Scott Bekemeyer, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman at The Partner Companies.