23 Sep 2025 - Alternator / Generator Update
DES, in collaboration with NCMS – National Center for Manufacturing Sciences, U.S. Army DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center, and ELM Aerospace, has successfully passed rigorous qualification testing of an optimized 180-Amp alternator/generator for the M992/M109 family of vehicles. The project, awarded through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) cooperative agreement with NCMS, required redesign and full qualification of First Article Test units of an obsolete alternator/generator used on the Paladin field artillery ammunition supply vehicle.
In order to perform the redesign, DES performed a full tear down, inspection and analysis to develop an updated Technical Data Package for every component of the electric machine. Due to the packaging constraints and style of the alternator/generator, the effort was extremely complex and required every detail was precisely specified. DES partnered with Empresas LM, an expert in stator manufacturing, to build the First Article Test units. GVSC performed First Article Testing to ensure the product met all specified requirements and the DES designed and built alternator/generator passed all testing. The Level 3 TDP has been delivered to the government to provide the means to mitigate the risk of obsolescence and ensure fleet readiness is maintained for the vehicles.
DES, in collaboration with NCMS – National Center for Manufacturing Sciences, U.S. Army DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center, and ELM Aerospace, has successfully passed rigorous qualification testing of an optimized 180-Amp alternator/generator for the M992/M109 family of vehicles. The project, awarded through the Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (CTMA) cooperative agreement with NCMS, required redesign and full qualification of First Article Test units of an obsolete alternator/generator used on the Paladin field artillery ammunition supply vehicle.
In order to perform the redesign, DES performed a full tear down, inspection and analysis to develop an updated Technical Data Package for every component of the electric machine. Due to the packaging constraints and style of the alternator/generator, the effort was extremely complex and required every detail was precisely specified. DES partnered with Empresas LM, an expert in stator manufacturing, to build the First Article Test units. GVSC performed First Article Testing to ensure the product met all specified requirements and the DES designed and built alternator/generator passed all testing. The Level 3 TDP has been delivered to the government to provide the means to mitigate the risk of obsolescence and ensure fleet readiness is maintained for the vehicles.
17 Sep 2025 - Spherical Bearing Liner
We are thrilled to be featured in the CTMA Connector by NCMS. This was a great project to work on and we're grateful to all those who helped make this a success!
CTMA Connector Fall 2025 by NCMS Work Place
We are thrilled to be featured in the CTMA Connector by NCMS. This was a great project to work on and we're grateful to all those who helped make this a success!
CTMA Connector Fall 2025 by NCMS Work Place
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18 June 2025 - First Tee
We were fortunate enough to support a wonderful initiative led by First Tee - Greater Charleston. Their Pathfinder Immersion program focuses on providing students with golf, mentorship, and STEM enrichment activities. Each year, participants visit our site and learn more about engineering and related professions from our very own Jesse Schultz and Nathan Dillehay. This is our third year hosting and we look forward to many more! 
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30 May 2025 - Design and Build
DES successfully designed and built a spherical bearing liner tool to effectively measure liner wear to a high precision. The data captured will inform the durability and reliability of the V22 pitch link and help the USG make informed determination about its replacement life cycle. The team traveled to Marine Corp Air Station (MCAS) New River to field test the prototype tool alongside the MCAS field maintenance team. The collaborative effort between DES, NCMS, and the V22 Fleet Support team at FRC East Cherry Point has been a great success thus far and DES looks forward to continued collaboration to refine the tool and develop a comprehensive data capture and analytical framework to further achieve the USG objectives.
DES successfully designed and built a spherical bearing liner tool to effectively measure liner wear to a high precision. The data captured will inform the durability and reliability of the V22 pitch link and help the USG make informed determination about its replacement life cycle. The team traveled to Marine Corp Air Station (MCAS) New River to field test the prototype tool alongside the MCAS field maintenance team. The collaborative effort between DES, NCMS, and the V22 Fleet Support team at FRC East Cherry Point has been a great success thus far and DES looks forward to continued collaboration to refine the tool and develop a comprehensive data capture and analytical framework to further achieve the USG objectives.
04 Apr 2025 - DES honored as a Patriotic Employer
DES was recently honored as a Patriotic Employer by the Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR)! Yudai Stout, one of our wonderful engineers, nominated our Managing Principals, Bob Cole and Greg Gordon for their continued support during his recent deployment.
We are so proud of Yudai and cannot thank him enough for the time and efforts he's given to both DES and The United States!
DES was recently honored as a Patriotic Employer by the Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR)! Yudai Stout, one of our wonderful engineers, nominated our Managing Principals, Bob Cole and Greg Gordon for their continued support during his recent deployment.
We are so proud of Yudai and cannot thank him enough for the time and efforts he's given to both DES and The United States!
24 Mar 2025 - Commercial Automotive Sector
To further diversify and enhance our competency and capabilities, DES has strategically focused on expanding our work with commercial automotive vendors. We are proud to offer high-value engineering, prototyping, fabrication, and technical support to several leading automotive suppliers, including local industry giants such as Volvo Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Our contributions span a broad range of services—from improving existing tooling and lift systems to designing, building, and testing innovative lifts, fixtures, jigs, and tools.
Our competitive edge lies in our ability to deliver solutions that are not only cost-effective and timely but also rooted in deep expertise in engineering design, problem-solving, creative thinking, and rapid prototyping. Additionally, our growing testing capabilities have further solidified our reputation in the market. These strengths have proven to differentiate us in a highly competitive industry, positioning us as a trusted partner for automotive manufacturers.
Looking ahead, our goal is to deepen these partnerships and continue driving growth with commercial automotive companies. This will empower DES to sustain its momentum as a thriving, diversified group, committed to excellence and innovation in every aspect of our work.
To further diversify and enhance our competency and capabilities, DES has strategically focused on expanding our work with commercial automotive vendors. We are proud to offer high-value engineering, prototyping, fabrication, and technical support to several leading automotive suppliers, including local industry giants such as Volvo Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans. Our contributions span a broad range of services—from improving existing tooling and lift systems to designing, building, and testing innovative lifts, fixtures, jigs, and tools.
Our competitive edge lies in our ability to deliver solutions that are not only cost-effective and timely but also rooted in deep expertise in engineering design, problem-solving, creative thinking, and rapid prototyping. Additionally, our growing testing capabilities have further solidified our reputation in the market. These strengths have proven to differentiate us in a highly competitive industry, positioning us as a trusted partner for automotive manufacturers.
Looking ahead, our goal is to deepen these partnerships and continue driving growth with commercial automotive companies. This will empower DES to sustain its momentum as a thriving, diversified group, committed to excellence and innovation in every aspect of our work.
27 Feb 2025 - Delivery of Mobile Laboratory
DES just successfully delivered a Mobile Emissions Laboratory for the Department of Energy (DOE) and National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) in Pittsburgh, PA. The trailer will be able to operate as a fully functional mobile lab capable of traveling to United States-based pilot sites to monitor slip stream emissions. DES outfitted the 20-foot enclosed trailer with industrial finishes including commercial vinyl flooring, industrial-grade wall and ceiling cladding, and additional structural reinforcement where required for explosion-proof fans and climate control. Construction also required a separate gas cylinder storage room, equipment storage, work benches, and a comprehensive Air Quality system including a gas monitoring system, chemical hood, and exhaust fans. DES also analyzed, selected, and installed plumbing and instrumentation for the three independent Ultra-high Purity (UHP) gas streams, including protocol stations, regulators, flow orifices, and pressure relief valves to supply the UHP gases while protecting sensitive equipment as well as the researchers themselves.
DES just successfully delivered a Mobile Emissions Laboratory for the Department of Energy (DOE) and National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL) in Pittsburgh, PA. The trailer will be able to operate as a fully functional mobile lab capable of traveling to United States-based pilot sites to monitor slip stream emissions. DES outfitted the 20-foot enclosed trailer with industrial finishes including commercial vinyl flooring, industrial-grade wall and ceiling cladding, and additional structural reinforcement where required for explosion-proof fans and climate control. Construction also required a separate gas cylinder storage room, equipment storage, work benches, and a comprehensive Air Quality system including a gas monitoring system, chemical hood, and exhaust fans. DES also analyzed, selected, and installed plumbing and instrumentation for the three independent Ultra-high Purity (UHP) gas streams, including protocol stations, regulators, flow orifices, and pressure relief valves to supply the UHP gases while protecting sensitive equipment as well as the researchers themselves.
19 Feb 2025 - Project Award: AMICS System Requirements Review
DES was just awarded a project from Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) to design and develop a prototype Rapid Portable Manufacturing platform to test and evaluate. The platform includes both polymer and metal printing capabilities, as well as traditional machining (subtractive) techniques. DES has helped shape the requirements and create an Equipment List for a successful System Requirements Review (SRR) and is currently finishing the Preliminary Design phase, which began after SRR approval on 19 February. The mobile manufacturing platform will provide the ability to produce parts and components at the point-of-use, reducing costs, lead time, and equipment downtime. This project will aid NAVFAC in revolutionizing the US Industrial Base and the ability to support remote maintenance and sustainment activities.
DES was just awarded a project from Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command (NAVFAC) to design and develop a prototype Rapid Portable Manufacturing platform to test and evaluate. The platform includes both polymer and metal printing capabilities, as well as traditional machining (subtractive) techniques. DES has helped shape the requirements and create an Equipment List for a successful System Requirements Review (SRR) and is currently finishing the Preliminary Design phase, which began after SRR approval on 19 February. The mobile manufacturing platform will provide the ability to produce parts and components at the point-of-use, reducing costs, lead time, and equipment downtime. This project will aid NAVFAC in revolutionizing the US Industrial Base and the ability to support remote maintenance and sustainment activities.
26 Dec 2024 - Certification News
Effective 26 Dec 2024, DES has earned the AS9100D quality certification!
We're excited to celebrate the hard work and dedication our team exhibited working towards this goal and look forward to continuous improvement!
Effective 26 Dec 2024, DES has earned the AS9100D quality certification!
We're excited to celebrate the hard work and dedication our team exhibited working towards this goal and look forward to continuous improvement!
11 Nov 2024 - NAMC Basket Placement
24 Oct 2024 - Project Award
DES was just awarded a project from the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (NCMS CTMA) to design, develop, prototype and test a specialized inspection tool. This tool will measure and test rod end deflection to inform aircraft maintenance team on the displacement of the swashplate/pitch assembly rod ends. DES will investigate high precision methods and inspection techniques including x-ray, photogrammetry, laser measuring, resistive insulation measuring, and vibration loading. The tool is intended to remove subjectivity of an inspection step, allowing for go/no-go criteria to be used for disposition.
DES was just awarded a project from the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences Commercial Technologies for Maintenance Activities (NCMS CTMA) to design, develop, prototype and test a specialized inspection tool. This tool will measure and test rod end deflection to inform aircraft maintenance team on the displacement of the swashplate/pitch assembly rod ends. DES will investigate high precision methods and inspection techniques including x-ray, photogrammetry, laser measuring, resistive insulation measuring, and vibration loading. The tool is intended to remove subjectivity of an inspection step, allowing for go/no-go criteria to be used for disposition.
8 Aug 2024 - NCMS Member Spotlight
DES is thrilled to be featured in the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) New Member Spotlight!
Defense Engineering Services (DES) - Member Spotlight - National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (ncms.org)
Thank you, NCMS, for the wonderful feature!
DES is thrilled to be featured in the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS) New Member Spotlight!
Defense Engineering Services (DES) - Member Spotlight - National Center for Manufacturing Sciences (ncms.org)
Thank you, NCMS, for the wonderful feature!
8 Apr 2024 - DES and Project Vista
Project Vista is an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between small business innovation and actual fielded capability. DES is excited to see how our SBIR work can be leveraged to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions!
Check out our Project Vista page for more information on DES SBIR work!
US Army to reward big contractors that ingest smaller innovator’s tech (defensenews.com)
Army launches several new initiatives to incorporate small firms’ technologies into its systems (federalnewsnetwork.com)
Project Vista is an initiative aimed at bridging the gap between small business innovation and actual fielded capability. DES is excited to see how our SBIR work can be leveraged to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions!
Check out our Project Vista page for more information on DES SBIR work!
US Army to reward big contractors that ingest smaller innovator’s tech (defensenews.com)
Army launches several new initiatives to incorporate small firms’ technologies into its systems (federalnewsnetwork.com)
5 Apr 2024 - AMPV Commissioning
DES commissioned its 2nd AMPV Medical Trainer at The Medical Education and Training Campus Combat Medical Specialist Training Program, or CMSTP, at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston. The first trainer, an AMPV Medical Evacuation variant, has been commissioned and in use since December 2022. This 2nd trainer, an AMPV Medical Treatment variant, was commissioned March 2024. Both trainers feature realistic training environments by replicating the interior design of the actual vehicles, and include a functioning OEM litter lift system in the Medical Evacuation variant, and functioning OEM treatment table in the Medical Treatment variant.
DES commissioned its 2nd AMPV Medical Trainer at The Medical Education and Training Campus Combat Medical Specialist Training Program, or CMSTP, at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston. The first trainer, an AMPV Medical Evacuation variant, has been commissioned and in use since December 2022. This 2nd trainer, an AMPV Medical Treatment variant, was commissioned March 2024. Both trainers feature realistic training environments by replicating the interior design of the actual vehicles, and include a functioning OEM litter lift system in the Medical Evacuation variant, and functioning OEM treatment table in the Medical Treatment variant.
29 Feb 2024 - Project Awards
Within the past two weeks, DES has received four new awards totaling over $220,000!
Within the past two weeks, DES has received four new awards totaling over $220,000!
20 Sep 2023 - Project Award: ABMS SBIR Phase II
Following the successful completion of the SBIR Phase I and Phase I Option for the Active Blast Mitigation System (ABMS) Integration Technology Advancement (ITA), DES was awarded a SBIR Phase II contract on 13 July. During this effort, DES will adapt the generic vehicle ABMS integration solution from Phase I/Phase I Option and produce a fully compliant ABMS integration design for the MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (MATV) vehicle, to include modeling & simulation (M&S) and a Level 2 TDP. The result will be a relatively low cost, lightweight vehicle upgrade kit that will save lives of our troops.
Following the successful completion of the SBIR Phase I and Phase I Option for the Active Blast Mitigation System (ABMS) Integration Technology Advancement (ITA), DES was awarded a SBIR Phase II contract on 13 July. During this effort, DES will adapt the generic vehicle ABMS integration solution from Phase I/Phase I Option and produce a fully compliant ABMS integration design for the MRAP All-Terrain Vehicle (MATV) vehicle, to include modeling & simulation (M&S) and a Level 2 TDP. The result will be a relatively low cost, lightweight vehicle upgrade kit that will save lives of our troops.
2 Aug 2023 - Celebrating ten years and a new facility!
DES hosted clients, friends, families, and partners to celebrate the opening of a new facility and ten years of business. We're grateful and appreciative to all who attended!
DES hosted clients, friends, families, and partners to celebrate the opening of a new facility and ten years of business. We're grateful and appreciative to all who attended!
19 Jun 2023 - Up and running!
Defense Engineering Services is fully operational in its new facility. We’re grateful for the many individuals who made this happen – thank you all!
Defense Engineering Services is fully operational in its new facility. We’re grateful for the many individuals who made this happen – thank you all!
27 Apr 2023 - DES Expanding Charleston County Operations
We're excited for the growth of DES and grateful for the feature by South Carolina Department of Commerce!
Defense Engineering Services expanding Charleston County operations | South Carolina Department of Commerce (sccommerce.com)
We're excited for the growth of DES and grateful for the feature by South Carolina Department of Commerce!
Defense Engineering Services expanding Charleston County operations | South Carolina Department of Commerce (sccommerce.com)
04 Apr 2023 - DES Partnerships
We're always excited to work with partners like Carbek on innovative research and design. Check out what they're up to! Home | CarbeK
We're always excited to work with partners like Carbek on innovative research and design. Check out what they're up to! Home | CarbeK
16 Jan 2023 - Project Award: Phase One ABMS
DES was awarded the Phase I Option contract extension for the Active Blast Mitigation System (ABMS) Integration Technology Advancement (ITA) SBIR, in advance of the full Phase II contract award. During this effort, DES will further develop and simulate the integration scheme of the TenCate® ABDS onto light armored vehicles for the US Armed Forces. This technology will greatly increase occupant survivability through the deployment of countermeasures during an underbody blast event while maintaining minimal effects on the vehicle during normal vehicle operation. The result will be a relatively low cost, lightweight vehicle upgrade kit that will save lives of our troops.
DES was awarded the Phase I Option contract extension for the Active Blast Mitigation System (ABMS) Integration Technology Advancement (ITA) SBIR, in advance of the full Phase II contract award. During this effort, DES will further develop and simulate the integration scheme of the TenCate® ABDS onto light armored vehicles for the US Armed Forces. This technology will greatly increase occupant survivability through the deployment of countermeasures during an underbody blast event while maintaining minimal effects on the vehicle during normal vehicle operation. The result will be a relatively low cost, lightweight vehicle upgrade kit that will save lives of our troops.
19 Dec 2022 - Project Award: Phase Two SBIR
DES has been awarded a direct to phase 2 Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) award from the Army. Valued at $1.7M, DES will develop and demonstrate an advanced solid-state circuit breaker technology for Army Aviation platforms. Advanced power management systems are needed to handle the increase in demands and complexity of platform and payload electrical loads. These power management systems require the capability to turn loads quickly and reliably on and off without requiring pilot input.
DES is partnering with UEC Electronics to support this project with their expertise in the design of solid-state circuit breakers by leveraging similar technology developed for vehicle platforms used by the Marines.
DES is partnering with UEC Electronics to support this project with their expertise in the design of solid-state circuit breakers by leveraging similar technology developed for vehicle platforms used by the Marines.
26 Jan 2022 - Simulators to Improve Medical Equipment Maintenance and Sustainment Training
18 Jun 2021 - This North Charleston Company Has a Direct Impact on Our Defense Industry
17 Nov 2020 - New OMAX Waterjet Up and Running!
1 Sep 2019 - DES Moves To New Shop in North Charleston
