ATC Manufacturing Expands Defense Capabilities with U.S. Air Force Contract for Larger-Scale Thermoplastic Composite Structures
High-rate capability positions North Idaho for next-generation defense aircraft
(03-18-26) POST FALLS, IDAHO – ATC Manufacturing (ATC) has been awarded a contract from the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) for a program titled “Thermoplastic Composites for Large High-Rate Aircraft Structures.” At the center of this capability expansion is the use of a new large-format hydraulic press engineered specifically for high-rate thermoplastic processing capable of forming parts up to 122 inches (~10’ feet) x 61 inches (~5’ feet), significantly expanding the possibilities for next-generation defense and commercial platforms.
This contract marks a strategic expansion of ATC’s footprint in defense applications, reinforcing its role as a key partner in next-generation aerospace structures. The initiative will demonstrate high-rate manufacturing of thermoplastic composite primary and secondary aircraft structures that reduce cost and upgrade legacy metallic and thermoset aerospace parts currently used in U.S. defense systems. ATC will be partnering with partners Anduril Industries and Toray Advanced Composites on this innovative program.
“I’m thrilled to see this expansion in capability and believe advancements in American manufacturing are vital to our nation’s continued success. I’m proud to have this right here in our city.” said Post Falls Mayor, Randy Westlund.
This new investment in high-rate thermoplastic processing is expected to drive job growth at ATC’s Post Falls, Idaho location, including mechanical engineers, project engineering, and configuration engineer roles.
“Idaho manufacturing is lucky to have the support of Senator Crapo and Senator Risch,” said Pat Jones, President of ATC Manufacturing. “ATC shares their commitment to protect and expand our domestic supply chains and we are growing to meet the global demand for advanced aerospace manufacturing with American engineers right here in Idaho.”
“High-rate thermoplastic production allows us to deliver lighter, corrosion resistant, more durable structures necessary to meet American national security goals. We are proud to partner with AFRL to accelerate advanced materials into operational systems” says Jason Merrifield, ATC’s Business Development Manager.
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FOR PRESS INQUIRIES CONTACT: Maria Lusardi, [email protected]
About the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is the Department of the Air Force’s primary scientific research and development center and one of six centers within Air Force Materiel Command. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces. With a workforce spanning across nine technology areas and 40 other operations around the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit afresearchlab.com.
About Advanced Thermoplastic Composites (ATC) Manufacturing
ATC is committed to advancing composites manufacturing and retaining American manufacturing jobs by providing low-cost solutions for lean thermoplastic composite part production at their purpose-built facility in Post Falls, Idaho. ATC is one of the few remaining independent thermoplastic composite suppliers, and maintains ISO 9001:2015, AS9100D, ITAR and NADCAP certifications. Visit ATC’s website for more information.