Albany Engineered Composites (AEC) has received a $4 million contract award from the US Army in support of hypersonic development.

The company will use its proprietary and fully industrialised near-net shape 3D weaving technology to further develop thermal protection systems for hypersonic applications. When compared to competing technologies, the technology provides unique performance advantages with superior affordability and scalability to meet the demanding requirements of hypersonic vehicles.

AEC continues to lead the way in developing 3D composite technology, making investments over the last twenty years in its processes, equipment, software and applications. Most recently, it committed to strategic capital investments supporting the adaptation of the company’s 3D composites technology to hypersonic material applications and will use this funding to support the initiative.

AEC will also be recruiting new employees at its base in Rochester, New Hampshire, over the next few years, in the areas of engineering, fabrication, machining and assembly.

“We are excited to play a critical role in advancing US capabilities in hypersonics in support of our national defence initiatives,” said AEC president Greg Harwell.

“New Hampshire businesses play a critical role in bolstering our national defence capabilities and I’m thrilled to see this $4 million contract between the US Army and Rochester’s Albany Engineered Composites, which will further enhance our state’s reputation as an innovator for emerging technologies,” said New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “This contract is a testament to the advanced technologies developed by Granite State companies, and demonstrates the essential work of our businesses and workforce in support of US national defence.”

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