Concerns about tariffs, component sources, and supply chain vulnerabilities have led US aerospace and defense companies to increase their reliance on domestic manufacturing. Hermetic connectors are essential components that ensure reliable power and signal connections in harsh environments. Utilizing US hermetic manufacturers is a key move towards greater control, efficiency, and compliance.
TL;DR: American-made hermetic connectors offer US aerospace and defense companies a strategic advantage—streamlining supply chains, reducing costs, and ensuring compliance with critical regulations—all while reinforcing national pride.
Trends Driving Onshoring
Several factors are fueling this shift. Tariffs on imported goods have increased costs and complexity for companies relying, not only on overseas suppliers, but also other North American suppliers outside the United States. Political pressure to reduce dependence on foreign manufacturing, especially in defense-critical sectors, has also intensified. These dynamics make onshoring not just a patriotic choice, but a practical one.
Key Benefits of Hermetic Connectors Made in the USA
- Simplified Supply Chain:
Domestic production eliminates many of the logistical headaches associated with international sourcing. Lead times are shorter, communication is clearer, and risks related to geopolitical instability and shipping delays are minimized. - Reduced Costs:
While unit costs may appear higher domestically, the total cost of ownership often decreases. Avoiding tariffs, reducing freight expenses, and minimizing downtime due to supply chain disruptions all contribute to long-term savings. - Regulatory Familiarity:
US-based manufacturers are well-versed in the complex regulatory landscape governing aerospace and defense. Douglas Electrical Components, for example, offers connectors that meet stringent standards such as ITAR, DDTC, DFARS, Conflict Materials, RoHS, and REACH, ensuring seamless compliance and reducing the risk of costly violations. - Reputational Value:
Choosing American-made components sends a strong message of support for the domestic industry and workforce. It demonstrates a commitment to national security and economic resilience—values that resonate with stakeholders and customers alike.
Additional Advantages
MIL-DTL-38999 to MIL-DTL-5015 backpotted connectors with wire harness.
Beyond the core benefits, onshoring offers access to specialized services and certifications. Douglas Electrical Components provides AS9102 First Article Inspections upon request, a critical quality assurance step beyond guaranteed leak and electrical testing. They have hermetic versions of multiple MIL-spec connectors and work with MIL-spec wires and cables, meeting defense standard requirements while ensuring performance in extreme conditions such as high pressure, vibration, and temperature fluctuations. In addition, they create hermetically sealed circuit boards that meet sealing standards and testing methods within MIL-STD-883 and MIL-STD-750.
Collaboration to create tailored or augmented solutions becomes easier when working with a domestic supplier like Douglas Electrical. Their engineering team supports custom designs for applications ranging from detection systems to missile guidance, offering hermetic sealing technologies that protect sensitive electronics from oil, moisture, gases, and other environmental threats. Aerospace and defense companies can also augment standard solutions to integrate existing connectors, wire, cables and termination boxes, terminations, quick connect or turn-key installation solutions, as well as bundle mating cables, assemblies and harnesses to reduce suppliers.
Conclusion
Onshoring hermetic connectors is more than a trend—it’s a strategic imperative for aerospace and defense companies seeking reliability, compliance, and national alignment. By partnering with trusted US manufacturers like Douglas Electrical Components, organizations can future-proof their operations while contributing to stronger domestic manufacturing.
