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How to Start a Military Coatings Business

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Comprehensive Guide to Launching Your Military Coatings Business Successfully

Starting a military coatings business is all about smart planning, understanding industry standards, and nailing down the certifications needed to meet the high demands of the defense sector. Let’s walk through the essentials.

Define Your Target Customer, Find A Trusted Supplier, and Become an Applicator

As an applicator of military coatings with a trusted supplier like Marvel Coatings, you can open up a dedicated service line.

Applications for Military Coatings Include:

  • Armored Vehicles & Tanks: Shields against ballistic threats.

  • Aircraft & Helicopters: Protects against high-altitude elements.

  • Naval Vessels & Submarines: Prevents corrosion in marine environments.

  • Military Facilities: Adds protection to infrastructure for the long haul.

 

Understand Industry Standards and Certifications

This industry plays by strict rules, and for a good reason. Military coatings require adherence to specific standards like MIL-PRF-32348 and MIL-DTL-64159. These certifications build trust and demonstrate your commitment to the quality and performance expected by defense clients. Marvel Coatings will always provide you with best in industry coatings that include the certifications you need. 

"Meeting MIL-SPEC standards is non-negotiable. It shows a commitment to quality that defense customers demand," says a senior engineer from a top coatings manufacturer.

Key MIL-SPEC Certifications

  • MIL-PRF-32348: Standard for advanced polyurea and polyurethane coatings.

  • MIL-DTL-64159: Specific to chemical-agent-resistant coatings, crucial for high-risk military environments.

  • MIL-PRF-32440: Coatings for blast mitigation, commonly used in armored vehicles.

Develop a Solid Business Plan

Every successful business starts with a plan, especially in a niche like military coatings. Here, outline your goals, the market you’re targeting, and strategies for marketing and funding. Make sure you detail your path to obtaining military coating equipment, training your team, and building strong relationships with suppliers at Marvel. Be sure to let them know you plan to focus on military coatings. 

Secure Funding and Resources

Launching a military coatings business takes investment. Equipment, high-quality materials, and certification costs can add up quickly, so explore all possible funding options—loans, grants, or even investor backing. A solid financial cushion ensures you’ll have what you need to cover startup expenses and operate smoothly in the early days.

“Securing funding can be challenging, but with a compelling business plan, investors recognize the growth and profitability potential,” explains a defense technology investor. 

With Marvel Coatings as your supplier, you will have support in equipment financing, team training, and chemical selection. 

 

Establish A Strong Supplier Partnership

The supplier you choose will define your company. You want experienced professionals with expertise in military coatings, compliance, and application techniques. 

"A successful military coatings business hinges on its supplier. Look for a company like Marvel Coatings, with the experience and name that gets you in doors," suggests a retired military officer now in the coatings industry.

 

Your Partner in Military Coatings Success

Starting a military coatings business is challenging, but with the right guidance and resources, you’ll be set up for success. Here at Marvel, we understand the unique challenges and opportunities in the military coatings industry. Our team of experts is ready to support you every step of the way, from product development and certification to marketing and scaling. Together, we can help protect the armed forces and ensure mission success.

Start the Process Today and Become an Applicator