Tiderock Composites and Extremis Systems have launched a collaboration to develop and evaluate lightweight multifunctional structures for marine, unmanned systems, defence and law-enforcement applications. The initial programme will focus on a full-scale hull and deck prototype, using existing marine tooling at Tiderock Composites.
The programme combines Tiderock Composites’ advanced composite manufacturing expertise with Extremis Systems’ NEOZANT materials platform. The latter integrates a proprietary polymer with carbon fibre and advanced ceramics, with the aim of combining structural performance and protection within a single system.
The prototype will be benchmarked against conventionally manufactured alternatives in terms of weight, manufacturing cycle time, structural performance and cost. The results will determine whether the companies move forward with additional applications, including structures for unmanned maritime and ground systems.
Tiderock Composites brings more than two decades of experience across aerospace, rail, automotive, marine and industrial programmes. Its capabilities include composite design and development, tooling and mould manufacturing, prototyping, RTM, vacuum infusion, VARTM, hand lay-up, CNC processing, robotic trimming and drilling, as well as 3D scanning and reverse engineering.
The most relevant aspect of the collaboration is the attempt to move composites beyond their traditional role as lightweight structural materials, developing multifunctional structures in which mechanical strength, protection and mission performance are engineered together.
The first marine demonstrator will therefore serve as a test case for transferring this approach to autonomous platforms and vehicles designed for demanding operational environments. The companies said any further commercial development will be considered after completion and evaluation of the initial programme.
-
-
24 September 2026
