Real-world experience. Proven protection.
Defence Composites was founded in 2001 by Craig Mills, but the story goes back much further. It started over 40 years ago in the high-pressure world of motor racing. What began as a project to fund a season in Formula 3 quickly turned into a career defined by technical innovation – starting with developing the carbon fiber clothing for Richard Noble’s 1983 World Land Speed Record.
This expertise in high-performance materials led to years of specialised work with the UK Special Forces and the Police. Craig was eventually asked to set up the TBA Ballistics manufacturing facility – the primary supplier to the UK Ministry of Defence – and served as the Body Armour Adviser to the NATO Soldier Modernisation Programme.
Drawing on his unique level of expertise and experience, Craig established Defence Composites in 2001 to focus on bespoke design and high-quality manufacturing.
A Journey of Innovation
1983
Craig Mills develops carbon fiber gear for the 633mph World Land Speed Record.
1990s
Specialised ballistic design for UK Special Forces and the UK MOD.
2000s
Craig Mills serves as Body Armour Adviser to the NATO Soldier Modernisation Programme.
2001
Defence Composites is established, bringing manufacturing and design expertise to Greater Manchester.
2008
Defence Composites redefined body armour with the development of a revolutionary modified polycarbonate stab-resistant vest. Fully certified to UK Home Office standards, it remains the lightest shell armour vest on the market and continues to be manufactured today.
2012
Julia Harbridge joins, bringing 25 years of business expertise to our technical projects and certifications.
2020
Defence Composites begin to sell directly into the UK market, while also expanding its distribution overseas to the US, Australia and New Zealand.
Lucy Porter joins DC as Account Manager.
2021
Jason Rigby joins DC as Business Development Manager.
2022
We develop a new canine body armour in collaboration with a team of experts, to protect working dogs internationally. Defence Composites begin exhibiting at national security events.
2023
The DC canine vest sells into HMP, and the Police Force. Defence composites work on expanding their product line into clothing and soft panel armour.
2024
Our team expands in the manufacturing department, allowing higher order volumes and faster distribution times.
2026
Defence Composites wins an Outstanding Security Performance Award, and the DC Canine body armour is featured in Crufts. Jason Rigby then becomes Director of Business Development.
HERITAGE & EXPERTISE
We are proud to manufacture out of our facilities in Greater Manchester, where we design, develop, manufacture, and distribute in house. Our team of focused specialists, within the body armour industry, uphold the highest standards, both in the manufacturing process and the office, ensuring efficient and direct operations.
DECADES OF CRAFTMANSHIP
We pride ourselves on having team members that have been with Defence Composites over two decades, and this dedicated team allow us to constantly develop, and in an ever-changing industry this is crucial.
Because we design and manufacture under one roof, we are able to be as fast and flexible as possible with and client requests. Our team are able to accommodate a vast range of designs in an efficient manner, to ensure customer satisfaction and safety.