Big, heavy and seemingly impenetrable
Whereas defense equipment used to be mainly big, heavy and seemingly impenetrable, that image has now changed considerably. Of course, there are still impressive armored vehicles, fighter planes and naval vessels. But modern warfare is increasingly about small units, speed, movability, invisibility and lightweight equipment.
Stronger through innovation. Lighter through plastic.
The new role of plastics in the defense industry
It should come as no surprise that plastics, previously hardly used in defense applications, are now playing an indispensable role. From drones and vehicles to advanced combat clothing, plastic components are being used everywhere, replacing metals or other materials.
Weight and material properties are often decisive in material selection. Even a small reduction in weight can make a big difference in the mobility and effectiveness of military personnel.
In short, where plastics used to be thought to “not make a dent in a packet of butter,” they are now indispensable in today’s defense industry. New tactics and strategic principles make plastics – as in other industries – a key component in innovation. Indeed, thanks to the use of plastics, there are more possibilities because of the diverse material properties.
