Composite Blackhawk Weapon Support System Components

Blackhawk Weapon Support Systems

At APEX Space & Defense Systems, we design and manufacture cutting-edge composite solutions for military and defense weapon systems. Our Lightweight Armament Support Structure (LASS) and Multi-station Armament Support Structure (MLASS) weapon systems allow a Blackhawk helicopter to be quickly converted from a Transport configuration into an Attack configuration. Using the most advanced composite materials available, our custom parts provide an unmatched combination of weight reduction, strength, and versatility, providing superior performance in mission-critical applications compared to legacy metal designs.

Benefits of Composite Weapon System Components from APEX

With our composite weapon system solutions, you don't have to choose between fuel efficiency and carrying capacity—our composite technology ensures you have both. Built from advanced carbon fiber composites, our weapon system components are lighter, more durable, and feature an increased carrying capacity compared to metal components. Our systems are designed for seamless integration with legacy systems and custom applications, providing a range of benefits, including:

Significant weight reduction
Enhanced fuel efficiency
Increased weapon-carrying capacity
Full carbon structure with aluminum fitting
Corrosion resistant
Meets all US Army service load requirements, including stress and environmental testing
Approved for Special Operations and currently in service

Weapon Component Solutions from APEX Space & Defense Systems

LASS and MLASS Systems

Our LASS and MLASS systems reduce weight while maintaining identical weapon ordinance and attachment locations of ESSS (Four Station External Stores Support System) and EFS (Two Station External Fuel System). The MLASS and LASS systems we designed and manufacture, were designed in collaboration with third-party Weapon System Integrators to provide additional weapon capabilities, including targeting, firing, and weapon capabilities. Made from ultra-high-performance carbon fiber, our LASS and MLASS components are the ultimate solution for weaponizing transportation helicopters.

CUWP

We designed and manufacture Composite Universal Weapons Pylons that serve as an upgraded replacement for the Steel Universal Weapons Pylon (SUWP). These advanced composite pylons are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and meet all US Army service load requirements, including stress and environmental testing standards. Our CUWP parts are designed to fit existing Bell OH-58D and 407 Helicopter interfaces and use the same installation kits and procedures.

Partner with APEX Space & Defense Systems to Convert Your Legacy Systems to Composites

Converting your existing systems and components to composite materials can greatly enhance your military aircraft performance. We will work with you to design and develop new custom products that meet your specific needs. When you partner with APEX Space & Defense Systems, you can rely on:

Decades of experience designing and manufacturing composite defense solutions
Innovative composite solutions for multiple defense platforms
Design-build and built-to-print solutions
Supplier to nearly every major OEM
Military-qualified weapons pylons in service today