Rowan Precision is strengthening its position in the defence supply chain after achieving AS9100 accreditation, marking a significant step in its ambition to support more demanding, safety‑critical programmes alongside its established aerospace work. The certification, widely regarded as essential for accessing higher‑tier defence and aerospace contracts, reinforces the company’s commitment to advancing up the value chain by pairing stringent quality assurance with its specialist sliding-head machining capabilities.
Glenn Aston, chief operating officer, said: “AS9100 demonstrates to defence and aerospace primes and Tier One suppliers that our systems, traceability, and culture are aligned with the expectations of safety-critical manufacturing. Defence customers want confidence, consistency, and resilience — and that is exactly what this accreditation supports.”
Rowan Precision’s sliding head machining technology sits at the heart of this offering. The company has built its manufacturing strategy around producing complex, tight‑tolerance components in volume while ensuring process reliability and repeatability. This capability is particularly suited to the intricate geometries and smaller diameters common in defence applications, from actuation systems to precision mechanical assemblies.
Technical edgeMr Aston added: “Sliding-head machining gives us a real technical edge. It allows us to manufacture intricate parts efficiently, without compromising on accuracy. When you combine that with AS9100-aligned processes, it becomes a compelling offer for defence programmes that demand both precision and reliability.”
With the defence sector placing renewed emphasis on sovereign capability, secure supply chains, and long‑term programme stability, opportunities are emerging for UK manufacturers able to meet stringent regulatory and quality expectations. Rowan Precision believes its continued investment in accreditation, technology, and workforce skills positions it well to support these evolving needs.
Mr Aston said: “We are seeing defence customers looking for partners they can grow with over the life of a programme. Our aim is to be that partner — technically capable, quality driven, and commercially robust.”
With AS9100 now in place, Rowan Precision is actively engaging with defence contractors and integrators, signalling a clear intent to become a trusted machining supplier in a sector where performance, compliance, and reliability are paramount.