Flying High with Compliance: Why AS 9100 & AS 9120 Certifications Are Essential for Aerospace Manufacturers and Distributors Entering Defence & UAV Sectors
As the global aerospace and defence ecosystem continues to expand, India is fast emerging as a manufacturing and innovation hub in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), defence technologies, and advanced aviation systems. With this momentum, comes an increased emphasis on quality, reliability, and supply chain integrity—making certifications like AS 9100:2016 (Rev. D) and AS 9120:2016 (Rev. B) more relevant than ever.
For manufacturers and distributors aiming to serve the aviation, space, and defence sectors, these certifications are no longer optional—they are strategic business imperatives. At Vektors, we enable organizations to align with these global benchmarks, unlocking market access, improving operational efficiency, and ensuring long-term growth.
Understanding the Standards: AS 9100 and AS 9120
AS 9100:2016 (Rev. D) is the internationally recognized Quality Management System (QMS) standard specifically designed for organizations that design, develop, and manufacture products for the aerospace and defence sectors. It includes all the requirements of ISO 9001:2015, with additional clauses that address:
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Product safety and mission-critical reliability
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Configuration and design control
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Risk management and mitigation
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Counterfeit parts prevention
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Compliance with customer and regulatory requirements
AS 9120:2016 (Rev. B) is tailored for stockists and distributors of aerospace components. It emphasizes traceability, handling, storage, and supplier management, ensuring that aerospace parts are delivered in accordance with stringent quality and safety expectations.
Together, these standards form the backbone of a robust, globally accepted quality infrastructure for the aerospace and defence supply chain.
Why These Certifications Matter in the Defence and UAV Industry
Market Entry and Qualification
AS 9100 and AS 9120 certifications are often prerequisites for working with defence OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and public sector entities. Without these certifications, companies risk being excluded from high-value, long-term aerospace contracts.
Operational Consistency and Compliance
In defence and UAV manufacturing, the margin for error is minimal. These certifications help companies institutionalize structured, process-based quality management practices, reducing rework, enhancing safety, and ensuring audit readiness.
Global Supply Chain Integration
With the rise of global partnerships and joint ventures in the aerospace sector, Indian suppliers and distributors must align with international standards. Certification ensures seamless integration into global supply chains, facilitating exports and technology transfers.
Support for Indigenous Defence Manufacturing
As part of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, certification strengthens the position of Indian manufacturers and suppliers as credible partners for defence procurement and R&D agencies like DRDO, HAL, and BEL.
Common Operational Challenges and the Role of Certification
| Challenge | Impact on Business |
|---|---|
| Lack of standardised processes | Inconsistent product quality and missed delivery timelines |
| Limited traceability in distribution | Loss of customer trust and failed audits |
| Inadequate supplier control | Quality escapes and non-compliance issues |
| Insufficient risk planning and management | Increased production delays and design failures |
| Poor documentation and record retention | Regulatory and customer non-conformities |
AS 9100 and AS 9120 address these challenges by embedding quality into every layer of the organization, from procurement to customer delivery.
How Vektors Supports AS 9100 and AS 9120 Certification
At Vektors, our structured certification readiness programs are built to address the real-world challenges of manufacturers, startups, and distributors in the aerospace and UAV sectors.
Gap Assessment and Roadmapping
We conduct a detailed review of your current systems and processes against the AS 9100/9120 frameworks and develop a customized action plan.
Process Development and Documentation
Our team assists in preparing or refining process documentation, SOPs, quality manuals, risk registers, supplier evaluation methods, and more.
Workforce Training and System Implementation
We provide focused training for top management, quality teams, and operations staff to embed standard requirements into day-to-day operations.
Internal Audit and Pre-Certification Review
Before the final audit, we conduct internal audits and mock assessments to ensure readiness, rectify non-conformities, and ensure your team is fully prepared.
Certification Body Coordination
We guide you in selecting the right certification body and support you through the entire audit lifecycle—from Stage 1 through final approval.
Conclusion: Building Trust in the Skies
In a highly competitive and compliance-driven sector like aerospace and defence, certification is not just about meeting customer expectations—it is about establishing credibility, reducing risk, and enabling business scalability.
Whether you are manufacturing UAV frames, developing drone payload systems, assembling components, or distributing aerospace hardware, AS 9100 and AS 9120 certifications offer you a clear path to becoming a trusted supplier.
With Vektors as your partner, you gain access to deep industry expertise, hands-on support, and a commitment to measurable results.
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If your organization is planning to enter or grow within the aerospace and defence ecosystem, now is the time to build your foundation on globally accepted standards.
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