SDO Associates has announced a new collaboration with Carbon Component Solutions (CCS) and Arnold Engineering Plastics (AEP), UK-based specialists in advanced composite and plastic component manufacturing, to support their entry into the Defence market.
CCS Composites delivers high-quality, lightweight composite solutions designed for performance-critical environments. AEP provides CNC machining (3–5 axis), pattern and mould making and vacuum forming under ISO 9001 processes. Their combined expertise spanning design, prototyping, tooling and full-scale production, enables customers to develop precision-engineered components that meet demanding strength, durability and weight requirements. Their adaptable and hands-on approach allows them to respond effectively to complex engineering challenges across multiple sectors.
As Defence programmes continue to place greater emphasis on lightweighting, protection and platform performance, advanced composites and vacuum formed polymer solutions are becoming increasingly important in the development of next-generation capabilities. CCS and AEP are now positioning their expertise to support these evolving requirements, bringing proven manufacturing capability into the Defence space.
Through this partnership, SDO Associates will work alongside CCS and AEP to support their growth into the Defence sector. This will include providing market insight, shaping strategic positioning, and enabling engagement with key stakeholders and the wider supply chain.
Ian O’Dell, Operations Manager, from CCS Composites commented: “This collaboration represents an important step for us as we look to apply our composite and polymer manufacturing expertise within the Defence sector. We see strong alignment between our capabilities and the growing demand for lightweight, high-performance materials, and we’re excited to be working with SDO Associates to help us navigate the landscape and unlock new opportunities.”
Stu Olden, CEO of SDO Associates, added: “CCS and AEP have developed a strong, vertically integrated and versatile capability in advanced lightweight material component manufacture, with clear relevance to Defence applications. We’re pleased to be supporting their entry into the sector and helping them connect with the right opportunities and partners.”
This collaboration represents a natural next step for CCS and AEP as they bring their proven composite and vacuum formed component capabilities into the Defence arena.
For media enquiries:
Lydia Ward
lydia.ward@sdoassociates.com
About SDO Associates
SDO Associates supports Defence and Aerospace SMEs with structured, campaign-led commercial strategies that drive measurable growth. Our proven Approach to Business Growth combines over 40 years of sector experience with hands-on delivery across strategy, business development, and marketing.
About CCS Composites
Carbon Component Solutions (CCS) is a UK-based manufacturer of build-to-print composite components and tooling, delivering high-quality, lightweight solutions for performance-critical environments. Working with Arnold Engineering Plastics (AEP), CCS provides integrated composite manufacturing, CNC machining and vacuum forming capabilities to support the development of precision-engineered components.
