Aerospace and Defense Industry Solutions

New England aerospace and defense contractors face unique challenges that demand precision, reliability, and unwavering quality standards. Pearse Bertram has served as a trusted manufacturing partner to the aerospace defense manufacturing sector for decades, delivering custom automation solutions and contract manufacturing services that meet the rigorous requirements these critical applications demand. Our team of experienced engineers understands that when your systems support defense operations or aerospace applications, failure is not an option.



Since 1929, we've built our reputation on delivering engineering excellence combined with exceptional customer service. Our ISO 9001:2015 certified facility in Bloomfield, Connecticut houses specialized capabilities that support defense contractor manufacturing and aerospace programs throughout New England and beyond. With 95% customer retention and less than 0.5% return rates, our track record speaks to the reliability aerospace and defense programs require.

Specialized Aerospace Defense Manufacturing Capabilities

The aerospace and defense industries require manufacturing partners who can deliver both precision and compliance. Our specialized capabilities address the unique demands these sectors present, from extreme pressure hydraulic systems to mission-critical control panels that must perform flawlessly in challenging environments. We support the most well-known contractors in the naval, submarine, aerospace, and other defense industries. So, we are no strangers to proper certs and documentation control. 

  • High-Pressure Hydraulic Power Units for Aerospace Testing

    Aerospace testing applications often require hydraulic systems capable of extreme pressures and precise control. Our engineers design and fabricate custom hydraulic power units rated up to 30,000 PSI, specifically engineered for aerospace testing environments and defense applications. These systems incorporate precision components, redundant safety features, and rigorous testing protocols that ensure reliable performance in the most demanding conditions. Whether you're testing aircraft components, missile systems, or defense equipment, our hydraulic power units provide the pressure stability and control accuracy your programs demand.


    Our hydraulic assemblies for aerospace applications integrate precision manifolds, servo valves, and advanced filtration systems that meet or exceed industry standards. We understand that aerospace hydraulic systems must operate reliably across temperature extremes, maintain precise pressure tolerances, and provide years of trouble-free service. Each unit undergoes comprehensive pressure testing, leak detection, and functional validation before delivery to your facility.

  • UL 508A Certified Control Panel Design for Defense Systems

    Defense industry automation systems require control panels that meet strict electrical safety standards while delivering the functionality complex defense applications demand. Our UL 508A certification enables us to design and fabricate industrial control panels that comply with National Electrical Code requirements and military specifications. From unmanned vehicle control systems to defense manufacturing equipment, our electrical control panels integrate seamlessly with your operations.


    Our control panel engineers work closely with defense contractors to understand mission-critical requirements, environmental considerations, and regulatory compliance needs. We design panels that withstand shock, vibration, temperature extremes, and electromagnetic interference while maintaining reliable operation. NEMA 4X rated enclosures protect sensitive electronics in harsh environments, while our meticulous wire management and documentation practices simplify maintenance and future modifications.

Ask an Expert

Have questions about manufacturing solutions for your aerospace or defense program? Our experienced engineers understand the unique requirements defense contractors face and can discuss how our capabilities support your specific applications.

Contract Manufacturing Services for Defense Contractors

Defense contractor manufacturing often involves complex assemblies, strict quality requirements, and challenging timelines. Pearse Bertram's contract manufacturing services provide defense contractors with a reliable production partner who understands program requirements and delivers consistent quality. Our 28,000 square foot facility combines modern manufacturing equipment with experienced technicians who take pride in producing components that meet exacting specifications.

  • Precision Pneumatic Assemblies for Military Equipment

    Military equipment manufacturing demands pneumatic assemblies that perform reliably under extreme conditions. As the number one SMC distributor in New England, we maintain extensive inventory of pneumatic components and manufacture thousands of custom pneumatic assemblies annually for defense applications. Our assemblies incorporate high-quality valves, actuators, and control components that withstand shock, vibration, and temperature extremes common in military environments.


    From pneumatic actuation systems for defense vehicles to valve manifolds for weapons systems, our engineering team designs assemblies that meet military specifications and defense contractor requirements. We understand that defense programs often involve long production runs with strict configuration control, and our manufacturing processes support these needs while maintaining the flexibility to accommodate engineering changes as programs evolve.

  • Electrical Subassemblies

    Defense systems integrate numerous electrical subassemblies and wire harnesses that must be manufactured to precise specifications with complete traceability. Our IPC-A-620 certified technicians fabricate custom wire harnesses and electrical subassemblies that meet military standards and defense contractor specifications. From simple cable assemblies to complex wire harnesses with hundreds of connections, we maintain the quality control and documentation practices defense programs require.


    Our electrical assembly capabilities support aerospace manufacturing New England contractors with everything from avionics wire harnesses to ground support equipment interconnects. We understand the importance of proper strain relief, connector crimping, and insulation techniques that ensure long-term reliability in aerospace and defense applications. Each assembly undergoes continuity testing and visual inspection before leaving our facility, and we maintain detailed records that support program traceability requirements.


Quality Standards for Aerospace and Defense Programs

Aerospace and defense applications demand quality management systems that ensure consistent results and complete traceability. Our ISO 9001:2015 certification provides the foundation for quality processes that meet defense contractor and aerospace manufacturer expectations. We understand that quality in defense manufacturing isn't just about meeting specifications but about delivering reliable performance in applications where lives may depend on proper operation.

  • Testing and Validation for Mission-Critical Systems

    Every aerospace and defense component we manufacture undergoes comprehensive testing appropriate to its application. Our testing capabilities include hydraulic pressure testing, pneumatic leak decay testing, electrical continuity verification, and functional testing using custom fixtures designed for specific applications. We can design and build specialized test equipment that validates performance under conditions your systems will encounter in service.

    For defense applications requiring environmental testing, we coordinate with qualified test laboratories to ensure components meet shock, vibration, temperature, and altitude requirements. Our engineers work with your team to develop test procedures that validate performance while supporting efficient production schedules. Complete test documentation accompanies each delivery, providing the traceability defense programs demand.

  • Configuration Management and Documentation

    Defense contractor manufacturing programs require rigorous configuration management and documentation practices. We maintain detailed records of components, revisions, and test results for each assembly we produce. Our document control systems ensure that manufacturing always follows current approved drawings, and we can implement formal engineering change processes that support program requirements. Whether your program requires AS9100 documentation standards or military specifications, our team has experience supporting these requirements.

Engineering Support for Defense Innovation

New defense and aerospace programs often require engineering support to translate concepts into manufacturable designs. Our engineering team brings decades of experience helping defense contractors optimize designs for manufacturability while maintaining performance requirements. We provide design for manufacturing input early in program development, identifying potential production challenges and recommending solutions that reduce costs and improve reliability.

  • Components for Defense Contractors

    Pearse Bertram is a full-line supplier of the top industry brands for components that may be used in ships, planes, and submarines. Things like gages, fittings, gas springs, and much more are our speciality. The engineering team at Pearse Bertram+ can help your team select the best components for your application, while ensuring defense compliance. 

  • Prototype Development and Low-Volume Production

    Defense programs typically progress through prototype phases before full production. Our contract manufacturing capabilities support this development process, producing small quantities of assemblies for testing and evaluation while maintaining the manufacturing discipline that enables smooth transition to production. We understand that prototypes often require rapid turnaround and design flexibility, and our engineering team works closely with defense contractors to support compressed development schedules.


    As programs transition from prototype to production, our manufacturing processes scale accordingly. We implement work instructions, fixture designs, and quality control procedures that ensure consistent results across production quantities. Whether your program requires ten units or ten thousand, our manufacturing approach supports efficient production while maintaining the quality aerospace and defense applications demand.


New England Aerospace Manufacturing Partnership Advantage

Location matters in aerospace and defense manufacturing. Our Connecticut facility provides convenient access to defense contractors and aerospace manufacturers throughout New England while offering quick response times for urgent requirements. Many defense programs value regional manufacturing partners who can respond quickly to changing needs, provide local engineering support, and maintain secure supply chains.



Our financial stability as a family-owned company with zero debt provides defense contractors with confidence in long-term program support. We maintain substantial component inventory that buffers against supply chain disruptions and enables rapid response to program requirements. With 76 experienced employees and 95% customer retention, we provide the stability defense programs require combined with the responsiveness larger contractors cannot match.

Request for Quote

Get detailed specifications and pricing for your aerospace or defense manufacturing project. We provide comprehensive quotes that address technical requirements, quality standards, and program timelines.