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Military Helicopter Electronics

Ruggedized Connectors for Mission-Critical Defense Applications

Defense applications demand flawless performance in extreme conditions, and electronic systems are growing more complex with increased electrification and high-speed data demands. 

Explore the key challenges impacting modern defense system design and how Molex and AirBorn, a Molex company, deliver proven MIL-SPEC connector, cable, flex assembly and power supply solutions that perform in the most extreme environments.  

Advanced Connector Design for Reliable Defense Systems in Extreme Environments


With critical information and mission success at stake, defense systems cannot afford to fail. Engineers designing for defense applications rely on rugged, high-performing connectors to ensure consistent, reliable connectivity that withstands extreme environmental stressors and increasingly complex technological demands. As modern defense systems evolve, designers face new challenges in developing and selecting components to support these systems. 

Ensuring long-term reliability in the face of harsh mechanical, thermal and environmental conditions remains a top priority—one that requires precision-engineered connectors built to meet stringent military specifications. 

At the same time, the shift toward electrification in key defense applications is transforming system architecture, demanding compact connectors capable of handling higher power loads and efficient, secure power transmission. 

As defense systems incorporate more advanced technologies, such as real-time data processing and high-bandwidth communications, the need for lightweighting and size reduction becomes more urgent than ever. This drives an increased focus on Size, Weight, Power and Cost (SWaP-C.)

Backed by decades of experience in defense connectivity, Molex and AirBorn can help customers meet these high-stakes challenges head-on.  With a portfolio of advanced, military-grade connector solutions tailored to meet the needs of mission-critical applications, Molex and AirBorn technologies are built to withstand extreme conditions while enabling compact, lightweight designs. 

Mission-Critical Connectivity


A Definitive Report on Designing Durable, High-Performance Military-Grade Connectors

Ensuring consistent system performance and long-term durability in defense applications is both challenging and critical. Rugged, reliable connectors are the answer to maintaining peak performance under extreme environmental, mechanical and thermal stressors. 

How can engineers in mission-critical markets confidently select connectors that will deliver operational continuity without design trade-offs? AirBorn addresses top strategies and design factors for defense connectivity in Defining and Advancing Rugged, Reliable Connectivity in Aerospace and Defense. 

This report outlines the precise, provable performance metrics necessary for meeting military standards and provides expert guidance on connector features, contact systems and material selection for uncompromising system integrity. 

Rugged Report
Mike Cole, Senior Vice President and President of Molex’s Aerospace and Defense Solutions Division
“Pushing the boundaries of rugged and reliable connectors is paramount when lives depend on unfailing operation to complete critical missions. We provide interconnect innovations that elevate durability, signal integrity and long-term performance”
Mike Cole
SVP and President, Aerospace and Defense Solutions
Molex

The Rise of Electrification in Defense Applications

Defense companies are quickly and decisively shifting toward electrification in key applications such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), propulsion systems and military vehicles. 

While this trend paves the way for stronger and more sophisticated technologies, it must be met with interconnect solutions that can withstand harsh conditions, handle higher power loads without increasing size, enhance system integration and use energy efficiently.

Molex and AirBorn support broad defense system electrification with advanced, military-grade connectors, flex circuits, cable assemblies and power supplies designed to enable secure power distribution, efficient power transmission and simplified integration. 

Defense UAV Electrification

Striking the Balance: Enhanced Connectivity Versus Size, Weight, Power and Cost (SWaP-C)

As the defense market embraces advanced capabilities like real-time data analytics, autonomous systems and enhanced navigation, engineers require interconnect solutions that support high-speed data transfer with minimal latency. At the same time, the electronics within these systems must still meet stringent military requirements for size, weight, reliability and efficiency. 

Design engineers need compact, rugged connectors developed with SWaP-C goals in mind, ensuring cost-effective, compliant solutions without compromising performance or reliability. 

Building on 80+ years of innovation in aerospace and defense connectivity, the Molex and AirBorn portfolio comprises miniaturized, ruggedized connector designs built to enable size, weight and power optimization. Advanced lightweight materials reduce bulk while maintaining peak performance and durability in harsh environments. 

SWAP-C Defense Military

Molex and AirBorn: A Strategic Acquistion Poised to Transform Aerospace and Defense Connectivity Solutions

Learn how AirBorn, a Molex company, and Molex combine forces to drive connectivity innovation and expand capabilities in the defense sector.  

Aerospace and Defense Connectivity Solutions

Rugged, Reliable Components for Mission-Critical Applications

Designed to the unique reliability requirements of the defense industries, Airborn’s expansive portfolio of military-grade connectors, cables and electronic assemblies help solve the most complex rugged connectivity challenges.

Rugged, Reliable Components for Mission-Critical Applications