Defence

A strategic enabler for Europe’s defence sector

Adhesives and sealants are critical to the performance and reliability of modern defence systems. Many of their material capabilities, such as lightweight bonding, resistance to harsh environments, and structural performance, are essential under demanding operational and safety requirements.

The technical applications of adhesives and sealants, and the benefits afforded

Adhesives and sealants are used across a wide range of defence systems, including aircraft, land vehicles, naval platforms, drones, electronics and protective equipment. Their applications span structural bonding, sealing, insulation and electronic integration, supporting performance, reliability, and durability across all operational domains. Included in these applications are, for example, structural adhesives for various types of bonding; sealants for corrosion protection; flame-retardant materials; conductive and optical adhesives; and gaskets, foams and tapes for such functions as vibration control.

These functions are closely linked. Adhesives and sealants help combine different materials within a single system, support lightweight design, and maintain durability under demanding conditions. This makes them a key part of modern defence and aerospace systems.

They are also critical from a strategic autonomy perspective. Defence systems depend on highly specialised, application-specific materials that are closely tied to product design and performance requirements. Their development and qualification require close alignment between material formulation and end use. Ensuring reliable access to these materials, while maintaining European research, development, and production capacity, helps reduce supply chain risks and support operational readiness in Europe.

Beyond initial manufacturing, adhesives and sealants also support maintenance and repair activities. Fast-curing and easy-to-apply systems enable efficient interventions, including in operational settings where downtime must be minimised. Their versatility across substrates, such as metals, composites, ceramics and polymers, supports flexible repair strategies and extends the service life of critical equipment.

Protection

Adhesives and sealants protect defence systems against harsh operating conditions and ensure long-term reliability. They have numerous applications, including electronic components, external structures exposed to demanding environments, optical bonding materials, electromagnetic shielding, and specialised tapes and damping materials to reduce noise, vibration and stress fatigue. All these functions are essential to ensure safety, durability and consistent system performance over time. Thus the reliability of electronic and avionics systems used in, for instance, aircraft, helicopters, and drones is ensured.