Albany Engineered Composites Awarded Army Contract to Develop Near-net Shape 3D Weaving Technology for Hypersonic Applications

Albany International Corp. announced that its subsidiary Albany Engineered Composites (AEC) has received a $4 million contract award from the U.S. Army in support of hypersonic development. AEC will be utilizing its proprietary and fully industrialized near-net shape 3D weaving technology to further develop thermal protection systems for hypersonic applications. When compared to competing technologies, AEC’s near-net shape 3D weaving technology provides unique performance advantages with superior affordability and scalability to meet the demanding requirements of hypersonic vehicles.

AEC's President Greg Harwell said, “We are excited to play a critical role in advancing U.S. capabilities in hypersonics in support of our national defense initiatives. AEC is uniquely positioned with a superior proprietary composite manufacturing solution that offers a best value to the Department of Defense in support of its demanding hypersonic vehicle requirements.”

AEC continues to lead the way in developing 3D composite technology, making investments over the last twenty years in its people, processes, equipment, software, and applications. More recently, AEC has committed to strategic capital investments supporting the adaptation of the company’s 3D composites technology to hypersonic material applications. AEC will utilize this funding to support the company’s ongoing 3D weaving technology development for hypersonic applications.

To support the growth in hypersonics, AEC will be recruiting new employees in Rochester over the next number of years in the areas of engineering, fabrication, machining and assembly. New Hampshire has cultivated a strong pool of Aerospace and Defense talent, and AEC provides unique benefits and growth opportunities to attract new workers while providing the training necessary to enhance the regional workforce.

“Albany Engineered Composites provides critical tools that help ensure the safety of our military and strengthen our national defense. This new funding will ensure we can better meet the needs of our armed forces by improving the production process and lowering production costs, which will in turn improve operations and safety,” said Congressman Chris Pappas. “I also look forward to seeing the positive impact this will have on our communities by creating high-paying jobs and investing in New Hampshire’s workforce.”