Emergingweapons

Machine Shops for Hypersonic Weapons Programs

Find AS9100 & ITAR certified machine shops qualified to supply components for the Hypersonics program.

Prime Contractor

Multiple (Lockheed, Raytheon, Northrop)

Status

Development and early production

Required Certs

AS9100D, ITAR

Program Overview

Hypersonic weapons travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5, requiring advanced materials and manufacturing techniques. Programs include ARRW, HACM, LRHW, and various defensive systems. This emerging field requires specialized high-temperature alloy machining.

Additional Prime Contractors

RaytheonNorthrop Grumman

Machined Component Categories

Thermal Protection

Leading edges and thermal management components

TungstenMolybdenumC-C composites

Airframe

Structural components capable of extreme temperatures

TitaniumInconelRefractory metals

Propulsion

Scramjet and rocket motor components

SuperalloysCMCRefractory metals

Primary Materials

TungstenMolybdenumTZMInconel 718Haynes 230C-103 Niobium

Required Certifications

AS9100DITAR

Preferred:

CMMC Level 2+Security Clearance

Special Requirements

  • Refractory metal machining experience
  • Classified program capability
  • High-temperature alloy expertise

How to Become a Hypersonics Supplier

  1. 1

    Obtain Required Certifications

    AS9100D certification and ITAR registration are mandatory before pursuing program work.

  2. 2

    Register in Supplier Portal

    Register through Multiple (Lockheed, Raytheon, Northrop)'s supplier portal and relevant procurement networks (e.g., Exostar).

  3. 3

    Respond to RFQs

    Monitor procurement opportunities and submit competitive quotes that demonstrate your capabilities and capacity.

  4. 4

    Complete Qualification

    Pass supplier qualification audits and first article inspections before receiving production orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are used in hypersonic weapons?

Hypersonic systems require materials that survive extreme temperatures (2000°F+). This includes refractory metals (tungsten, molybdenum), carbon-carbon composites, and high-temperature superalloys.

What machining challenges exist for hypersonics?

Refractory metals are extremely difficult to machine, requiring specialized tooling, EDM, or grinding. Many shops lack experience with these materials, creating opportunity for specialists.

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Program Requirements

Certifications
2 required
Materials
6 types
Component Categories
3

Qualified Machine Shops

AS9100 & ITAR certified manufacturers capable of Hypersonics program work