Unmanned Systems for Aerial, Ground, and Marine Applications

Composites have revolutionized the unmanned systems industry, offering a compelling combination of benefits that far surpass traditional materials. Their exceptional properties enable:

  • Weight Reduction: Lighter structures lead to increased payload capacity, extended flight times, and improved range.
  • Strength and Stiffness: Enhanced structural characteristics and durable components allows for a wider flight envelope.
  • Design Flexibility: Complex shapes, customization options, and the integration of various components streamline manufacturing and optimize system capabilities.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Composites offer extended lifespans and reduced maintenance costs, making them ideal for demanding environments.
  • Additional Advantages: Fatigue resistance, electrical insulation, and thermal management further enhance the versatility and performance of composite-based unmanned systems.

Complex Shapes for Unmanned System Components

Rock West Composites offers a full range of aerospace manufacturing services, including open mold lamination for complex aerosurfaces. Our expertise extends from the initial design stages to final assembly, ensuring that your UAV structures meet all requirements for mission success. Key offerings include:

  • Aerosurfaces
  • Fuel Tanks
  • Control Surfaces

Custom Tubes and Plates for Drones

From fixed-wing aircraft to multirotor, VTOL platforms, and deployable systems, our expertise in custom tubing ensures that your UAV program meets the highest standards. We offer a wide range of sizes and manufacturing techniques to accommodate the unique requirements of your airframe's primary structure.

  • Propeller Arms
  • Landing Gear
  • Fuselage

Support Services to Accelerate Success

Rock West Composites can provide a host of complementary services to make your drone/unmanned system program a success. From custom tooling to complex bonding and assemblies, from specified testing to AS9100 quality standards, we can support accelerated production schedules and reduce risk.

Unmanned aerial vehicle carbon fiber fuselage. Tubular structure with machined cutouts laying on a white surface on a neutral background.
Unmanned aerial vehicle carbon fiber fuselage. Tubular structure with machined cutouts laying on a white surface on a neutral background.
Unmanned aerial vehicle system
Custom filament wound carbon fiber tubular structure for an unmanned system being wound in a manufacturing facility.
Filament wound carbon fiber fuselage for a defense-related unmanned system.