Defence Composites celebrates 21st birthday

Defence Composites

A Rochdale manufacturer of body armour has celebrated its 21st birthday.

Established at the start of the millennium, Defence Composites, on Chichester Street, has built a long standing reputation in the body armour and composites industry.

The company was founded by Craig Mills, whose experience designing lightweight armour and his knowledge of composite materials gives the company the advantage of a unique level of expertise.

Mr Mills said: “The business has come a long way since 2000 and we would not have achieved this milestone without the ongoing support and business given to us by our customers.

“With a fantastic team, a growing customer list and big plans, now is an exciting time for us all here at Defence Composites.”

In 2008, Defence Composites developed their KR1 stab vest armour which continues to protect public-facing professionals, including security guards, safety officers and enforcement teams throughout the UK and worldwide.

Manufactured from a modified polycarbonate shell, their stab vests are designed to protect against knives, edged weapons, physical assault, blunt impact weapons and hypodermic needles. Sizes are available in XS-6XL, with over 30 options within the range as well as a made to measure service.

All DC covers are manufactured in house along with the protective panels. Their standard range includes overt, covert and hi viz covers but they also offer a bespoke design service for customers who have a specific requirement.

Defence Composites has been busy over the past year developing a range of canine body armour harnesses, in collaboration with UK Canine. The Tornado and Hurricane multi threat protection armour is now in use with various UK police forces and the Tempest hi viz harnesses are in service with UK search and rescue teams.

The company also works closely with partners of some of the most cutting edge material suppliers such as Tencate, DSM, Outlast, Cordura and Kozane.