In the evolving landscape of defence and high-security electronics, reliability, traceability, and data security are more than just customer requirements — they are prerequisites.
For companies aiming to support the UK defence industry, this means more than just delivering high-quality PCBs; it means proving their commitment to the highest industry standards.
Aspocomp has been AS9100-certified for several years, demonstrating long-standing excellence in quality management. Now, with the addition of Cyber Essentials certification and the ongoing process toward Cyber Essentials Plus, Aspocomp further strengthens its commitment to data security and compliance in the UK defence sector.
Local Presence with Global Backing
Aspocomp’s presence in the UK dates back to 2016. What began as a commercial foothold quickly expanded with the addition of a dedicated technical expert to better serve UK customers. Since 2024, both roles have been merged into one hybrid commercial-technical position, now led by Ashley Luxton, a veteran of the PCB industry with over 30 years of experience.
“UK customers value direct contact and responsive support, especially in technically demanding sectors like defence and aerospace. By offering both commercial and technical assistance through a single local contact, we make collaboration easy and efficient,” Ashley explains.
Certifications That Open Doors
In the UK defence sector, AS9100 and Cyber Essentials certifications are often more than just preferences — those are entry requirements.
AS9100 is the internationally recognised quality management standard for aviation, space, and defence. It assures customers that Aspocomp operates at the highest levels of quality control and process rigour. Cyber Essentials, meanwhile, is a UK government-backed scheme that validates an organisation’s ability to defend against the most common cybersecurity threats.
“Without Cyber Essentials, many companies simply won’t engage. These certifications open doors — and show customers we take quality and security seriously,” Ashley says.
Aspocomp is also on the path to achieving Cyber Essentials Plus, which includes a comprehensive audit of IT infrastructure. Together, these certifications position the company as a secure, reliable partner in sensitive and high-compliance projects.
Meeting Demand in a Growing Market
Defence spending is increasing across Europe, and the UK is no exception. However, Luxton points out that UK-based PCB production capacity is increasingly strained.
“There are fewer capable suppliers than before, and the top players are running close to their limits. UK defence customers are now actively seeking partners with both capacity and capability — and that’s where Aspocomp comes in.”
With its AS9100-certified manufacturing facility in Finland and deep experience in high-reliability PCBs, Aspocomp is well-positioned to support this demand. Finland’s NATO membership has also played a role in improving confidence among UK defence customers, who now see European collaboration as more secure and strategically aligned.
More Than Manufacturing
Aspocomp’s offering goes beyond PCB production. The UK team supports customers from the design phase with DFM feedback, material selection, and early risk identification. In radar applications, for example, Aspocomp works with advanced materials and tight tolerances that only a few suppliers can handle.
“We don’t just build the boards; we help shape them. Our job is to reduce manufacturing risks before the first panel even hits production,” Ashley says. This is particularly valuable in defence-related radar applications, where material availability and processing expertise can dramatically affect timelines.
In fact, one of Aspocomp’s competitive advantages is material readiness. The company maintains a well-managed stock of high-performance materials, enabling it to begin urgent projects faster than many competitors.
Trusted by Design
With strong local support and a technically advanced manufacturing base, Aspocomp makes it easy for UK defence customers to operate as though they were working with a domestic supplier.
“The fact that the factory is in Finland is a logistical detail,” Ashley says. “We provide commercial and technical support locally, with fast response times, regular site visits, and a deep understanding of the UK defence ecosystem.”
From cybersecurity compliance to radar-grade PCBs, Aspocomp offers the reliability, speed, and transparency that the UK market demands.
About Ashley Luxton
Ashley Luxton is Aspocomp’s UK Sales Manager with over 30 years of experience in the PCB industry. With a background spanning front-end engineering, operations, and applications support, Ashley brings a rare blend of technical and commercial expertise. His local knowledge and long-standing industry relationships make him a trusted partner for UK defence customers navigating complex requirements.
Interested in learning more about Aspocomp’s UK capabilities and certifications?
Contact our team today to find out how we can support your mission-critical projects.