Composite materials for MDA applications typically falls into one of two categories: high modulus graphite fibers for stiffness critical primary structures and high strength graphite fibers for strength critical structures such as for bulkheads. SDC typically employs a concurrent process to develop the design and select the manufacturing process. High modulus fibers typically require relatively simple design shapes, which tends to be consistent with conventional autoclave processes, while SDC engineering might turn to more exacting closed mold manufacturing processes such as RTM and compression molding for more complex geometry structures.

SDC is continually upgrading its manufacturing facilities to be responsive to customer requirements. Ultimately, the objective will be to provide a full service prototype fabrication capability, with some processes expanded upon to be able to support production. MDA production has traditionally been relatively small lots of less than a thousand units. Currently, SDC facilities include a lay-up area with cold storage for prepregs, a clean room for integration and assembly of structural systems, a fabrication area with a 800 0F heated platen press, a Grieve oven, and a small machine shop. SDC currently has an autoclave on order and intends to purchase a filament winder and resin infusion equipment in 2008.