The right manufacturing partner for Department of Defense work needs the systems, experience, security practices, and supply chain controls to manage the requirements that come with the work.
That’s especially important because export controls and other DoD requirements aren’t always obvious from the part itself.
At Reata, we approach every project with the same level of attention to detail. When a project carries specific DoD requirements, our experience serving this industry helps us understand how those requirements affect production, documentation, outside processing, prioritization, and other critical factors.
DoD Work Can Come with Requirements You Don’t See on the Drawing
A component may have export-control or flow-down requirements that aren’t obvious from the drawing, so manufacturers need processes that support controlled work from the start of every project
When a project does come with specific government requirements, the situation can change significantly. For example, Reata has experience working with parts that carry a DX or DO rating under the Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS). These ratings can establish priority for certain contracts, which can extend through the supply chain and require coordination with outside suppliers.
Requirements aren’t something a manufacturer can figure out after parts reach the floor; your manufacturing partner needs to understand how to meet those requirements before production begins.
Security and Compliance Must Extend Beyond the Shop Floor
DoD manufacturing can involve sensitive technical information, which makes information security an important part of the manufacturing process.
Reata is ITAR-registered, and information security is part of how we plan and run controlled work. Critical project information such as drawings, models, specifications, inspection documentation, and purchase orders typically needs to move between teams.
A capable manufacturer considers how they will handle that information throughout the process.
Your Supplier’s Suppliers Matter
A manufacturer may be able to control everything that happens inside their own facility, but many complex components require outside processes. Your manufacturing partner should evaluate those suppliers too, especially when handling components with critical DoD applications.
Reata maintains a network of vetted outside processing and material suppliers that can support requirements such as domestic material, DFARS requirements, ITAR-controlled processing, and applicable certifications such as NADCAP. This network allows Reata to coordinate more of the manufacturing process while maintaining the documentation needed to support the project.
Specific Requirements Call for Experience and Expertise
DoD manufacturing requirements can be quite complicated if you haven’t worked with them before. An experienced manufacturing team understands what a particular requirement means operationally and what needs to happen next. Key considerations include:
- Recognizing the significance of a priority rating
- Understanding how a requirement affects an outside processor
- Knowing what documentation needs to accompany a job
- Making sure the right people are involved before production begins
Reata’s teams have experience working through these requirements across our engineering, programming, machining, quality, and supply chain teams. That cross-functional communication is especially important for components with complex features or industry standards.
What Types of DoD Components Does Reata Produce?
Reata supports a range of complex components and assemblies that can be used in defense and other critical applications, including:
- Actuators
- Aircraft interior components
- Waveguides
- Structural components
- Mechanical linkages
- Manifolds
- Heat sinks
- Impellers
- Shafts
While specific requirements vary from project to project, the need for communication and quality control stays consistent.
DoD Manufacturing Requires a Whole Team Effort
Complex defense work isn’t just one department’s undertaking. A challenging component may require engineers to work cross-functionally to make sure the manufacturing process reflects the design intent and requirements. Having the right people involved at the right time helps maintain control over the process.
For DoD work, the manufacturing partner you choose becomes part of a much larger supply chain. Their processes, systems, employees, and outside suppliers all contribute to the final result. When evaluating a manufacturing partner, look beyond machining capabilities and ask how they handle the requirements surrounding the work.
If you have a complex DoD project on your plate, reach out to the Reata team.