Materials

The Materials ETA of the CW ITP covers a broad range of technologies which are fundamental to the overall operational capability of future missile systems and supporting capabilities in modelling & simulation, lifing and low cost manufacturing.

The global aim is to prepare future airframe solutions in accordance with missile systems’ technical objectives:

• high speed, long range, stealth, increased life duration, Life Cycle Management, multi-functionality of airframe
• low mass and high compactness munitions facilitating access to platforms
• development of cost effective capabilities for “development and manufacture”

The ETA aims to develop innovative techniques that complement the emergent technologies developed across the programme and that enhance the capability of missile systems’ solutions through their utilisation. The perimeter of this ETA includes the following technologies.

• High Temperature Materials (Metals, C-C, C-SiC, etc... )
• Joining Methods for materials, able to survive high temperature environments
• Polymer, Ceramic and Metal Composites (PMCs/CMCs/MMCs)
• Metal Matrix Composites (MMCs)
• Smart Materials, Structures and Devices
• Advanced Actuation Materials
• Advanced manufacturing methods eg 3D printing of materials, to produce cost effective, optimised structures
• Counter DEW structures
• Novel Cooling
• Meta-materials
• Improved Structural Design – Modelling and Simulation
• Improved lifing
• Drag reduction methods for improved performance (i.e enhanced range, persistence or endurance)
• Low Observable Materials

Materials Lead

MBDA Group Lead Materials and Processes UK

Chris Garman has worked at MBDA since 2004 and has been working in materials for just under 30 years. MBDA Technical Expert in Advanced Materials across metallic, polymer, composite and ceramics materials - with expertise in high-temperature metallics, Chris is also the International Technology Manager for the Mechanical Engineering Function, assessing new technologies and making new collaborations with internal and external partners, SME's, Academics and Industry.

Chris is responsible for all Materials & Processes used in MBDA UK, and jointly responsible for international Materials & Processes group standards, supported by a team of 16 Materials Engineers, Specialists, and Experts working across two laboratories. Chris really enjoys working collaboratively on innovative topics, building relationships, solving problems and free-thinking.