Helping manufacturers source military and defence grade electronics whether due to obsolescence, legacy, supply chain challenges or cost savings pressures.
The increase in military and defence grade electronics
The military world has rapidly evolved and relies on constellations of integrated information systems. This means that defence contracts, practices and supply chains require an ever increasing level of scrutiny. Meaning the battlefields of tomorrow will be a diverse mix of integrated, dynamically evolving technology.
Technology which operates in vastly different environments ranging from here on Earth, to outer space. Every component selection is evaluated upon its expected lifecycle, reliability and tolerance to environmental stresses.
Because military and defence grade electronics typically need higher tolerances to withstand moisture, corrosion and dirt. In addition to other contaminants beyond ordinary standard electronic applications, such as radiation. The specification of every component is critical and often left to a trusted supplier who can provide the robust manufacturing support. As well as synchronise their capabilities with military needs.
The supply chain challenges of manufacturing electronics for military and defence
Whether serving mission-critical applications or the more mundane, electronics play a vital role in the modern military. However, in recent years the electronics supply chain serving both civilian and military applications, has encountered significant challenges. Global shortages have lead to production delays and difficulties in accessing critical components. Despite the abundance of manufacturers and distributors for Printed Circuit Board (PCB) components, defence contractors and military procurement officers must adhere to strict rules, quality standards and traceability requirements.
Adhering to the defence electronics supply chain quality standards
The lives of military personnel depend on this equipment being right. So naturally only components meeting the highest quality standards and traceable to verified manufacturers are allowed in military electronic systems. However, component shortages typically present two procurement challenges. Firstly, finding a reputable alternative partner with the relevant accreditations, who can source and supply the required components. And secondly, navigating the increased risks of counterfeit components.
Some of the main standards military and defence components must adhere include:
- ISO9001: ISO 9001 is the internationally recognised Quality Management System (QMS) standard.
- AS9120B: AS9120B is a standard that specifies the requirements for a QMS for stockist distributors in the aerospace industry.
- AS6081: The AS6081 standard establishes requirements and practices to mitigate the risk of buying, receiving and selling fraudulent/counterfeit parts.
- SPOC 419: Supplemental Purchase Order Conditions (SPOC) Manual details the requirements that are applicable when invoked by Honeywell Aerospace Purchase Orders.
Sourcing hard to find military and defence grade electronic components
The complexity of dealing with component shortages combined with the risk of counterfeit procurement, underscores the necessity for working with an accredited procurement partner who can streamline the process. Whistler a Milexia company’s quality control process works in conjunction with AS9120, ISO9001, AS6081 and SPOC 419. This means we screen, check and double check every requirement to meet our defence contract customers standards. This ensures our service meets your expectations for sourcing mission critical components on time, every time. So you can deliver your products to your contracted obligations. We understand the pressures and complex demands that you face in an increasingly volatile defence grade electronic market.
How Whistler a Milexia company can help improve your component supply chain resilience
With over two decades of experience, Whistler a Milexia company is dedicated to helping customers overcome a wide array of day-to-day supply chain imbalances. Our team of experts excel in procuring the highest quality components. Navigating through various supply and demand fluctuations, to effectively tackle your challenges and ensure seamless supply continuity for your business.
With our vetted supplier network, global testing facilities and efficient logistics, we find and deliver your parts swiftly, ensuring unparalleled service.
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