Lockheed Martin and Albany Engineered Composites Partner to Accelerate AI Adoption in Aerospace Manufacturing
Title: Transforming Aerospace Manufacturing: The Strategic AI Collaboration Between Astris AI and Albany Engineered Composites
In a significant move for the aerospace industry, Astris AI, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin, has embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration with Albany Engineered Composites Inc. (AEC). This partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in AEC’s advanced manufacturing operations, setting a new standard for innovation and efficiency in the U.S. defense supply chain.
A New Era for Advanced Aerospace Manufacturing
As a leader in producing 3D woven composite components for defense and aerospace applications, AEC is stepping into the future with a structured AI modernization journey alongside Astris AI. This initiative marks AEC as the first supplier to integrate a robust AI framework, thus establishing a model for enhancing supply chain resilience across the defense sector.
The AI Factory Platform
At the heart of this collaboration is the deployment of Astris AI’s proprietary defense-grade AI Factory platform. Specifically designed to tackle challenges in complex manufacturing environments, the platform aims to:
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Develop a Comprehensive AI Roadmap: Astris AI will assist AEC in formulating an extensive strategy that encompasses supply chain operations, production planning, and financial management.
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Establish Secure Governance Frameworks: With compliance being a paramount concern in the defense sector, Astris AI will implement secure governance structures. These frameworks will facilitate AI adoption while adhering to stringent defense requirements and an open architecture.
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Operationalize Surrogate Models: Leveraging existing simulation and test data, the collaboration aims to build AI surrogate models capable of predicting the properties of composite materials used in complex 3D woven geometries. This predictive capability will enhance both innovation and quality control.
Insights from Leadership
Abby Lilly, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Lockheed Martin, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration. "Our investment in supplier AI readiness through Astris AI provides the secure platform and expertise needed to transform operations across our network," says Lilly. This sentiment reflects a broader commitment to integrating advanced technologies within the defense supply chain.
A Phased Approach to Modernization
The collaboration follows Astris AI’s three-phase strategy for building scalable AI programs:
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Establishing Technical Foundations: Laying down the necessary infrastructure for AI adoption.
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Developing Targeted Solutions: Addressing immediate operational challenges through customized AI applications.
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Scaling Successful Applications: Expanding effective solutions across various facilities within Albany’s network.
This partnership launches the initial phase of Astris AI’s supplier modernization initiative, which will continue to expand to additional key suppliers through 2026.
The Road Ahead
The collaboration between Astris AI and AEC signifies an essential step toward the future of aerospace manufacturing. As both companies work together to harness the power of AI, they are not only revolutionizing their operations but also setting a precedent for other suppliers in the industry.
With the potential to reshape the landscape of aerospace defense, this initiative is a testament to the endless possibilities that arise when innovative technology meets industry expertise. As the defense supply chain evolves, the integration of AI will play a pivotal role in enhancing capabilities, ensuring compliance, and driving efficiencies across manufacturing operations.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor the progress of this transformative partnership and its impact on the aerospace sector. The future is bright, and with initiatives like this, it’s only getting brighter.