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Our Solutions for the Military Industry


Textiles touch every corner of the world. At Apex Mills, we understand the importance of fabric within the military industry. We’re a premier textile manufacturer with over 80 years of experience, dedicated to fulfilling customer needs through application-specific designs fueled by in-person collaboration.

Apex Mills’ military-specified RC47N style mesh screen is made of Berry-compliant domestic nylon for tents and other applications.

 

Challenges in the Military Industry: How Apex Mills Provides Textile Solutions

Military personnel are often placed in harsh conditions with extreme temperatures and exposure to chemicals. They frequently encounter various elements, like water and fire, and are exposed to dangerous situations requiring flame resistance, ballistic protection, and camouflage.

Two of the most important characteristics of military textiles are their durability and breathability. Uniforms and equipment are subject to harsh conditions and environments for an extended time, requiring strength and toughness for warfighters. At the same time, these materials need to allow air to pass through. Breathability provides comfort and flexibility that help wearable performance and extended use.

In the military and defense sector, textiles play a significant role in the form of tactical gear, military physical training uniforms, footwear, high visibility vests, body armor accessories, and much more. Notably, Apex Mills is a leading supplier of fully compliant MIL-C-8061 fabric, style TP21 for Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment, (MOLLE), and other systems – and available in a fire-resistant version that meets ASTMD-6413 and FAR 25.853 approved by the US Department of Defense for vertical burn test methods. Apex Mills is also a trusted supplier of NASA-specified separator fabrics for multi-layer insulation systems in global aircraft.

Quality materials are essential, and large quantities of fabrics are often needed on strict timelines and budgets. Apex Mills delivers on each front.

Apex Mills’ Customized Textile Solutions

Apex Mills has established a reputation for superb design and craftsmanship. Our plant facilities are in North Carolina and Virginia totaling 400,000 square feet of manufacturing space. From here, we leverage more than 150 years of combined experience to produce specialty fabrics and materials. These locations operate 24/7 five days a week, allowing us to identify and respond to customer demands quickly. We understand the military industry’s challenges and work closely with our customers to design, develop, and manufacture custom products to meet their specifications.

Apex Mills is a leading supplier of fully compliant MIL-C-8061 fabric, style TP21 for MOLLE and other systems.

The Importance of Antimicrobial Fabric in Military Contexts

Antimicrobial fabrics are highly desirable materials, offering exceptional protection against the growth of bacteria, mold, odors, and other pathogens. Professionals in the military are often required to spend countless hours in the same uniforms and footwear while repeatedly using bedding and equipment. These materials can be a breeding ground for microorganism growth in harsh conditions and without easy access to cleaning facilities.

Using antimicrobial military fabrics within these challenging environments can increase comfort and optimize sanitization procedures. Specialty fabrics and materials are treated with topical chemicals to attack pathogens at a cellular level to inhibit growth. They play a significant role in preventing odors, skin irritations and infections in military settings.

Apex Mills’ Antimicrobial Textiles for Military Use

At Apex Mills, we have decades of experience producing antimicrobial mesh, tricot, elastics and 3D spacer fabrics that offer the functionality and comfort military applications demand. We work closely with military specifications to understand your fabric needs and develop a textile that supports your objectives.

All our products are manufactured to comply with FDA and EPA standards within an ISO-registered facility. Plus, our fabrics can be treated and finished to provide antimicrobial protection. We have the experience and equipment to create an assortment of antimicrobial fabrics that are used in:

  • MOLLE Systems and Other Systems
  • Helmet Padding and Lining
  • Footwear
  • Apparel
  • Ghillie Suits
  • Insect Netting
  • Bags and Packs

The Berry Amendment and Its Support for Military Textile Manufacturing

The U.S. Congress passed the Berry Amendment in 1941 as a part of the Fifth Supplemental Department of Defense’s (DoD) Appropriations Act during World War II. This act aimed to restrict the DoD’s spending, requiring it to focus funds on American-based companies. Rather than looking overseas for cheaper solutions, military organizations were mandated to work with domestic manufacturers to acquire the following items:

  • Clothing
  • Fabrics
  • Fibers
  • Food
  • Hand or measuring tools
  • Yarns
  • Footwear

The Berry Amendment has been pivotal for U.S.-based manufacturers — it’s essentially leveled the playing field by creating a reliable supply chain. Manufacturers can invest in their operations to innovate and commit to producing the highest-quality materials possible.

Apex Mills’ Compliance with the Berry Amendment and the Military’s Needs

Apex Mills is a family-owned textile manufacturer with firm roots in the United States dating back to 1943. We operate out of two state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, giving us the equipment and technology to consistently deliver products that meet the rigorous requirements of the defense sector.

Our operation provides a seamless supply chain, making it easy for organizations to acquire military-grade vests, life jackets, performance footwear, uniforms, and other essentials. We eliminate your need to rely on unknown foreign suppliers that may pose risks to your safety and productivity or jeopardize your supply chain with disruptions and geopolitical challenges.

Apex Mills: Your Trusted Partner for Military Textile Solutions

Apex Mills delivers dependable textile solutions to numerous Fortune 500 companies and organizations nationwide. Our engineering and design teams will work closely with your organization to learn about your objectives and requirements to develop practical, cost-effective solutions.

Get in Touch With Us

Apex Mills is the ideal choice when you need an expert textile provider. If you’re interested in learning more about our military textile products and services, contact us online to speak with a team member today.

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