Defence

Engineering capability supporting mission-critical defence platforms.

  1. AFD Systems
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  3. Defence

Defence

AFD Systems is a trusted engineering and manufacturing partner to the UK defence sector, delivering certified, high-integrity solutions that support organisations including BAE Systems, Lockhead Martin, Babcock and Raytheon.

With experience spanning more than 600 successfully delivered engineering projects across a plethora of defence platforms, we provide the agility, precision and reliability that defence customers depend on to achieve mission success.

Supporting the defence industry

AFD Systems works with defence primes, integrators and Tier 1 and 2 suppliers to accelerate programme delivery, reduce risk and ensure full compliance with the most demanding security and operational requirements.

Our team operates across air, land and sea domains, combining digital innovation with in-depth engineering expertise to deliver fully integrated solutions from concept through to certification and manufacture.

AFD Systems provides turnkey support through:

Defence engineering you can trust

Our multi-disciplinary team includes subject matters experts in design, structures and polymer additive manufacturing, supported by security-cleared engineers and robust data protection systems.

We bring design, analysis and certification under one roof, a unique capability that ensures quality, consistency and compliance across every project. This integrated approach enables agile response to operational demands and rapid delivery of mission-ready assets.

Our process and methodology

At AFD Systems, we apply a digital-first, engineering-led methodology to every defence project.

Our process integrates:

  • Advanced digital toolsets for modelling, simulation and validation
  • Secure collaboration between design, analysis and manufacturing teams
  • Proven quality control and data management systems meeting defence security standards

Our competitive advantage lies in the combination of our engineering expertise and certified manufacturing capability. We offer turnkey solutions that unify design, analysis and certification support, innovation in polymer additive technology for interiors, radomes and tooling, and reliability backed by secure processes, systems and security-cleared personnel.

Our approach enables our clients to operate with confidence in the most demanding defence environments.

About AFD Systems

AFD Systems is a market-leading advanced engineering and manufacturing business, trusted by global aerospace and UK defence organisations.

With over 600 successfully completed engineering projects across 70 fixed-wing and rotary platforms, UAVs, drones and land systems, AFD delivers robust and technically-advanced solutions that drive the industry forward.

Headquartered in cutting-edge engineering facilities in North West England, AFD Systems is committed to engineering excellence, continuous improvement and a purpose to address complex challenges that contribute to a safer, more secure world.

Why choose AFD Systems?

AFD Systems acts as a seamless extension of client teams, combining advanced digital manufacturing technologies with deep engineering insight to accelerate project outcomes. Clients choose AFD Systems for:

  • Agile and efficient delivery
  • Reliable, trusted collaboration
  • High-quality, repeatable output
  • On-time, on-budget performance

our approach

Our approach is guided by a consistent set of values that ensures every project aligns with our clients’ mission goals:

  • CUSTOMER-CENTRIC | From beginning to end
  • INTEGRITY | In all that we do
  • INNOVATION | To remain in front
  • ONE TEAM | Making us stronger together

Standards and accreditations

AFD Systems is fully accredited and certified to deliver additive manufacturing solutions across a range of tightly controlled sectors. Our operations adhere to the following standards:

Related Case Studies

We engaged AFD on the Human External Cargo (HEC) programme at a critical point when EASA had just begun to scrutinise our first of many STC applications for the Load Carrying System / Basket Type 1. At this time AHUK faced several technical challenges and simply put, AFD offered quick and effective support; working as a team with us to resolve some challenging technical problems, enabling confidence to be built between AHUK and EASA at panel level, and ultimately leading to a successful STC application.

Gordon Bailey - Chief Designer, AIRBUS Helicopters UK

“It was important for Eirtech to create an optimum design team for this high-profile project. The level of scrutiny from EASA was intensified owing to the problems that have plagued the MAX aircraft. From past experience, involving AFD from the out-set was a ‘no brainer’ for such a complex structural installation. They impressed from start to finish!”

Keith McKercher - Director of Engineering, Eirtech Aviation Services

“AFD provided structural specialists with experience in the application of the empirical formula for the assessment of bird impact forces. Extensive dialogue between AFD, Cobham, STC21, and the authorities (EASA and FAA) resulted in agreement on the Certification Plan and proposed Means of Compliance, leading to a successful STC application.”

Alastair Erskine - Head of Structures, STC21

Systems Integration
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Airframe Engineering
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Cabin Interior Engineering
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Additive Manufacturing
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Innovative Tooling Solutions
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High Integrity Test Rigs
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Reverse Engineering
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Metrology & 3D-Scanning
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Trusted by organisations across the world