Reshoring Defense: Startup Aims to Break Foreign Supply Chains with Novel Material

By Susan Powell

November 04, 2025

WACO, TX – In an era defined by supply chain vulnerabilities and a renewed focus on domestic manufacturing, Tactical Labs is emerging as a potential disruptor in the aerospace and defense industries. The Texas-based, veteran-led company recently announced a $42 million valuation and the appointment of Ret. Lt. Gen. John R. Evans Jr. as Chief Army Advisor and Board Member, signaling ambitious plans to reshape material sourcing for critical applications.

Tactical Labs is developing NS Fiber, a next-generation composite material positioned as a superior alternative to steel, aluminum, and even carbon fiber. The company claims NS Fiber offers up to 70% weight reduction, 25% cost savings compared to carbon fiber, and impressive thermal stability up to 960°C. These claims, if validated, could address longstanding challenges in aerospace and defense, where lightweighting and high-performance materials are paramount.

Addressing a Critical Need

The reliance on foreign sources for critical materials has become a major concern for national security experts. Supply chain disruptions, geopolitical instability, and concerns about intellectual property theft have prompted a push for greater domestic manufacturing capacity. “The vulnerabilities have been laid bare in recent years,” says one industry analyst familiar with the defense supply chain. “Having access to domestically produced, reliable materials is no longer just a ‘nice-to-have’ – it’s a strategic imperative.”

NS Fiber aims to fill this gap by providing a fully American-made alternative. The company is currently raising capital through a Wefunder campaign, inviting public investment in its vision. The choice to utilize Regulation Crowdfunding highlights the company's desire to broaden its investor base beyond traditional venture capital, potentially fostering a sense of national ownership in the technology.

Veteran Leadership Fuels Innovation

The appointment of Ret. Lt. Gen. Evans is a strategic move that underscores Tactical Labs’ commitment to serving the defense sector. Evans brings decades of experience in logistics, supply chain management, and defense acquisition. His presence on the board provides valuable insights into the needs of the military and could facilitate access to key decision-makers.

“Having someone with his background navigate the complex procurement processes is a significant advantage,” explains one defense consultant. “It’s not just about having a great technology; it’s about understanding how to get it into the hands of the warfighters.”

The company also emphasizes its commitment to employing veterans, creating a workforce with a deep understanding of defense requirements.

The Science Behind NS Fiber

While the precise composition of NS Fiber remains proprietary, Tactical Labs states it’s a novel composite material built upon advanced polymer chemistry and materials science. The claims of significant weight reduction and cost savings compared to carbon fiber are particularly noteworthy. Carbon fiber is widely used in aerospace and defense due to its high strength-to-weight ratio, but its high cost and complex manufacturing processes present challenges.

“If they can deliver on the cost savings while maintaining comparable performance, it would be a game-changer,” says a materials scientist specializing in composite materials. “The aerospace industry is constantly seeking ways to reduce weight and improve efficiency, and any material that can offer a significant advantage in those areas will be in high demand.”

However, independent validation of these claims is crucial. While Tactical Labs provides technical specifications and data sheets on its website, peer-reviewed publications and independent testing are necessary to confirm the material’s performance characteristics. Currently, such independent verification has yet to be published.

Navigating a Competitive Landscape

The composites market is dominated by established players like Toray Industries, Hexcel, and Teijin Limited. These companies have decades of experience, extensive manufacturing capabilities, and established relationships with major aerospace and defense contractors. Tactical Labs will face a significant challenge in competing against these industry giants.

“Breaking into this market requires more than just a great technology,” explains one industry analyst. “You need a robust supply chain, scalable manufacturing processes, and a strong sales and marketing team. Tactical Labs will need to demonstrate that it can deliver on all of those fronts.”

Tactical Labs appears to be focusing on niche applications where its material’s unique properties can offer a distinct advantage. The company is targeting applications in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ballistic protection, and structural components for military vehicles.

The Path Forward

Tactical Labs’ success will depend on its ability to secure funding, scale manufacturing, and validate its technology. The company is currently undergoing the process of achieving critical certifications, including AS9100D (aerospace quality management) and ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) compliance. Achieving these certifications will be essential for securing contracts with defense contractors.

The company is also exploring partnerships with universities and research institutions to further develop its technology and expand its applications. The company’s commitment to veteran employment and domestic manufacturing aligns with the Biden administration’s “Made in America” initiative, potentially opening doors to government funding and procurement opportunities.

While challenges remain, Tactical Labs represents a promising example of American innovation and entrepreneurship. Its vision of a resilient, domestically sourced supply chain for critical materials could have significant implications for the future of aerospace and defense. The next few years will be crucial as the company seeks to translate its ambitious vision into a reality.