Research conducted under the CAMP program will advance next-generation ceramics through precursor synthesis and processing.
A Virginia-based firm is set to advance ceramic materials research for extreme aerospace and defense applications. With a new contract, AeroVironment will develop next-generation ceramic and ceramic matrix composite materials (CMCs).
The $20 million contract, awarded by the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, aims to support the U.S. Air and Space Forces.
AeroVironment will accelerate development, field advanced capabilities faster, and strengthen mission readiness while reducing lifecycle costs.
Advanced additive manufacturing
By partnering with AFRL scientists and engineers, the team will apply advanced additive manufacturing, three-dimensional (3D) printing, and sensor integration techniques to create lightweight, thermally resilient structures—such as high speed aerodynamic vehicles, turbine engines, rocket propulsion systems, transparent armor, thermal-protection tiles, and nozzle extensions—designed to perform in the most extreme environments.
“CAMP represents a vital investment in technologies that will preserve America’s advantage across air and space domains,” said Johnathan Jones, Senior Vice President of Cyber and Mission Solutions at AV.
“By advancing the next generation of high-temperature materials and manufacturing processes, we will deliver capabilities that enhance mission readiness, extend operational endurance, and strengthen the technological superiority of our Air and Space Forces.”
Next-generation ceramics through precursor
Research conducted under the CAMP program will advance next-generation ceramics through precursor synthesis and processing, novel fabrication and design methods, microstructural characterization, and advanced modeling to better predict performance and durability. The effort will span the full lifecycle of material innovation, integrating embedded sensors for real-time health monitoring and developing multifunctional ceramics for aerospace, space, energy, and defense applications—from satellite propulsion and helicopter armor to ultra-efficient energy systems and advanced sensors, according to a press release.
“Collaborations with our customers are at the heart of what we do,” said Dr. John Hogan, Vice President of Defense and Interagency Service at AV.
“Through the CAMP program, we’re not just developing better ceramics—we’re creating the materials foundation for the future of flight and space operations. This collaboration ensures our research directly supports mission readiness, durability, and operational effectiveness for the Air and Space Forces.”
As military operations increasingly rely on hypersonic systems, advanced propulsion technologies, and space-based assets, demand for materials capable of surviving extreme thermal and mechanical stresses continues to grow. Advanced ceramics are expected to play a crucial role in meeting these requirements.
The CAMP contract reflects broader efforts by the U.S. Department of Defense to invest in next-generation materials science as a foundation for future military superiority. By advancing ceramic technologies today, the Air Force and Space Force aim to develop more durable, efficient, and mission-ready systems for tomorrow’s operational challenges.
With this award, AeroVironment further strengthens its position in the defense innovation sector while contributing to the development of critical technologies that could shape the future of aerospace and national security.
Researchers will investigate new fabrication methods, material processing techniques, microstructural characterization, and predictive modeling tools. These efforts are expected to improve understanding of how advanced ceramics perform under demanding conditions while enabling the creation of more reliable and efficient aerospace components.
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Prabhat, an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, is a tech and defense journalist. While he enjoys writing on modern weapons and emerging tech, he has also reported on global politics and business. He has been previously associated with well-known media houses, including the International Business Times (Singapore Edition) and ANI.