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Aerobotix Receives Defense Manufacturing Technology Achievement Award for Automated Aircraft Inlet Coating

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Aerobotix received the Defense Manufacturing Technology Achievement Award in 2018 for its automated inlet coating system for the F-22 Raptor. The company accepted the award during the annual Defense Manufacturing Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. Aerobotix developed the project in partnership with the Air Force Research Lab (AFRL), Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC), and Lockheed Martin Manufacturing Technology.

Before this innovation, F-22 inlet refurbishment presented critical challenges. These included inconsistent application methods, confined workspace limitations, and intricate surface geometries. Technicians also faced strict thickness tolerances and outdated equipment. Each aircraft required a substantial 1,500 hours of manual labor.

Aerobotix’s robotic coating solution delivered outstanding results. The system achieved a 90% reduction in coating time. It also cut overall aircraft refurbishment time by 60%. Most importantly, the solution removed operators from hazardous environments.

The versatile coating system adapts to multiple processes across both F-22 and F-16 platforms. Aerobotix plans to expand the technology to additional aircraft. Future enhancements will include integrated sanding and non-contact metrology capabilities. These additions will further streamline maintenance operations.

Aerobotix received the award in the Cost Reduction/Rate or Safety Improvement category. This represents one of four categories the program recognizes. The Joint Defense Manufacturing Technology Panel (JDMTP) presents the Defense Manufacturing Technology Achievement Award annually during the Defense Manufacturing Conference. JDMTP coordinates with ARCTOS to host the event.

About Aerobotix, Inc.

Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, the company specializes in the creation of cutting-edge robotic solutions for high-value, high-precision components, aircraft, and vehicles. Aerobotix has more than 155 robotic systems installed in the U.S. and abroad, providing exceptional results and savings for our clients.