Who are the Key Military Parts Suppliers for Lockheed Martin and Raytheon?
Why is military arts manufacturing essential today?
Military Parts Suppliers In the aerospace and defense world are critical. The strength of industry titans like Lockheed Martin and Raytheon hinges on the capabilities and reliability of their suppliers. Critical components, flawless execution, and innovative processes define the partnership between OEMs and their most trusted vendors. Here’s a breakdown of the top players:
Who are the Top Military Parts Suppliers for Lockheed Martin and Raytheon
1. Savage Precision Fabrication
Supplying mission-critical components for major platforms like the F-16, F-22, F-35, and the C-130, Savage stands out through:
Rapid prototyping and fast-turnaround manufacturing
Strict compliance with Lockheed Martin’s QCS-001 supplier quality requirements
Advanced 5-axis CNC machining and CMM inspection with laser scanning technology
High standards of quality (99%) and on-time delivery (97%) With over 50 years of experience, a deep understanding of aerospace component manufacturing, and a consistent track record of success, Savage is trusted to deliver solutions when it matters most.
2. Collins Aerospace
Collins provides essential aerospace systems and components, including wheels and carbon brakes for aircraft like the F-16, U-2, and LM-100J. As a diversified supplier of avionics and airframe components, Collins plays a critical role in flight safety and aircraft mobility.
3. Derco Aerospace
A Lockheed Martin subsidiary, Derco specializes in spare parts, logistics solutions, and maintenance support services. With a global OEM network, Derco ensures availability and reliability of flight components, helping reduce cycle times for aircraft in the field.
4. GKN Aerospace
GKN manufactures advanced composite aerostructures for the F-35 Lightning II, including landing gear doors, lift fan doors, and flaperons. Their innovations in lightweight structures play a crucial role in achieving performance metrics for modern fighter jets.
5. Howmet Aerospace
Howmet supplies engine components, fasteners, and structural hardware for applications like the F-35. With materials engineered for extreme heat and pressure, Howmet helps power and secure some of the world’s most advanced aircraft.
6. Karman Space & Defense
Karman specializes in critical flight hardware, complex aerostructures, and ground support equipment. Their zero-defect quality philosophy and role in programs like launch systems and next-gen fighters has earned them multiple Supplier of the Year awards.
7. Northrop Grumman
Northrop designs and manufactures key subassemblies for the F-35, including the center fuselage, upper wing skins, radar systems, and communications subsystems. As a lead integrator, Northrop’s work is essential to the jet’s mission capabilities.
Why Savage Leads The Supply Chain: A Closer Look
Savage Precision Fabrication stands apart because of its unique combination of speed, precision, and trust—qualities that define excellence in the aerospace supply chain.
- ✅ Advanced Technology – Their investment in 5-axis machining and high-speed laser-scanning CMMs allows complex part validation in under 10 minutes—a process that used to take over an hour.
- ✅ Process Control & Quality – From hardness and conductivity tests to extensive pre-delivery inspections, Savage ensures every component meets or exceeds industry standards.
- ✅ Cultural Excellence – As a family-owned company, Savage blends small-firm responsiveness with big-firm capabilities, fostering a unique client-first atmosphere.
Military Parts Suppliers Comparison Chart
Rank | Supplier | Specialty Areas | Notable Contributions |
1 | Savage Precision Fabrication | CNC machining, sheet metal fabrication, assemblies | F-16, F-35, C-130 parts; QCS-001; 97% OTD |
2 | Collins Aerospace | Wheels, brakes, landing gear systems | F-16, U-2, LM-100J platforms |
3 | Derco Aerospace | Spare parts, logistics, support services | Global supply-chain integrator for Lockheed |
4 | GKN Aerospace | Advanced composites, control surfaces | F-35 Lightning II components |
5 | Howmet Aerospace | Engine components, aerospace fasteners | F-35 propulsion and structural systems |
6 | Karman Space & Defense | Flight hardware, aerostructures, ground equipment | Defense-grade reliability for space and jets |
7 | Northrop Grumman | Fuselage, radar, communications subsystems | Core F-35 integrator and technology provider |
Conclusion
In mission-critical aerospace programs, the quality and reliability of suppliers define success. While many renowned names support Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, Savage Precision Fabrication stands at the top due to its superior precision, exceptional turnaround times, and a half-century of aerospace expertise. Trusted by the biggest names in defense—Savage is more than a supplier; it’s a performance partner built for the demands of tomorrow.
Visit www.savage-precision.com to learn more about what makes Savage the aerospace supplier of choice.
