Military & Defense

ACT PROUDLY SERVES

In military and defense applications, coatings must do far more than look good; they must meet demanding specification standards that ensure maximum durability, corrosion resistance, and performance under extreme conditions. Whether protecting vehicles, equipment, or mission-critical components, failing finishes can compromise safety, readiness, and longevity. At Advanced Coating Technology, we specialize in MIL-SPEC and CARC coating systems applied with precision and experience, helping defense contractors and manufacturers meet strict military requirements while delivering coatings that stand up to harsh environments and support dependable performance.

Keeping Personnel & Equipment Running Safely & Efficiently

MIL-SPEC coatings are used by the U.S. military for their maximum durability, safety, and wear resistance. The MIL-SPECs for each military branch and their vehicles and equipment are based on the terrain they navigate and the environment they operate in. The specifications control the coating materials and, in some cases, the application process.

MIL-SPEC coatings are specially designed to prevent corrosion and provide maximum durability and wear resistance. Additional benefits might include temperature resistance, camouflage, non-infrared reflective properties, electrical insulation, non-slip, and dry film lubricity.

Providing High-Quality MIL-SPEC Coatings Since 1982

We understand the proper cleaning, pre-treatment, and applications necessary to provide you with MIL-SPEC coating services.

Our industry-leading suppliers and decades of experience ensure your coating requirements are met with precision and reliability.

The Rise and Benefits of MIL-SPEC Coatings

Since the 1980s, upgraded military specifications from the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and Army Research Laboratory (ARL) have driven a dramatic increase in the use of MIL-SPEC powder coatings. Today, these coatings are applied to both exterior and interior environments and are widely used for camouflage purposes.

Thanks to their exceptional durability, MIL-SPEC coatings are also ideal for a variety of non-governmental applications. They withstand heavy-duty use, emit little to no VOCs, and provide a safe, reliable solution for demanding projects.

CARC Coating Systems

Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) systems are designed to protect vehicles and personnel from chemical and biological weapons. These coatings easily endure decontamination efforts and repel chemical, radioactive and biological compounds by preventing absorption into the vehicle. CARCs cause contaminants to bead on the surface so they can be washed off in the decontamination process.

Complete CARC System

A full exterior coating system for superior chemical agent resistance

Our team follows strict surface preparation and controlled application procedures to ensure consistent, repeatable, and specification-compliant results.

Key Features:

Full compliance with MIL-DTL-53072 and other relevant military standards
Durable and corrosion-resistant primers and topcoats
Designed for chemical agent resistance on exterior vehicle surfaces

Interior CARC Coating

Protecting interiors without compromising MIL standards

We apply Interior CARC coatings to protect the inside of vehicles and equipment, meeting both functional and visual requirements. Interior coatings conform to MIL-PRF-22750 standards and are available in a wide range of FED-STD-595 colors.

Key Features:

Provides interior chemical and corrosion resistance
Wide selection of standard military colors for interior components
Complements exterior CARC systems for full vehicle protection

CARC Camouflage Finish

Exterior protection with mission-ready camouflage

Our CARC camouflage finishes combine durable chemical and abrasion resistance with tactical concealment. These finishes meet military specifications for visual and mission requirements and are applied over CARC primers and topcoats for full protection.

Key Features:

Available in MIL-DTL-53039 standard camouflage colors: 686A Tan and 383 Green
Provides chemical agent and abrasion resistance while achieving camouflage
Compatible with CARC primers and topcoats for complete system performance

CARC Application Process

Removes grease, oil, and contaminants via washing, vapor degreasing, or abrasive blasting (sandblasting) to ensure proper adhesion.

Applies conversion coatings like zinc phosphate (for steel) or alodine/chemical conversion (for aluminum) to enhance corrosion resistance and paint adhesion.

Epoxy primers (such as MIL-PRF-23377) are applied to provide a robust, corrosion-resistant base.

Polyurethane CARC is applied via spray techniques to meet strict color, camouflage, and chemical resistance requirements.

The coating must be cured under controlled temperature and humidity conditions to ensure maximum hardness and durability.

MIL-SPEC Liquid Coatings (Non-CARC)

Advanced Coating Technology has extensive experience applying a wide range of MIL-SPEC primers and topcoats from the industry’s leading coating manufacturers. Our team is familiar with both current and legacy military specifications and can help you identify the appropriate coating system for your project, including canceled or superseded specifications. Contact us to review your specific requirements and compliance needs.

MIL-SPEC Powder Coating

We provide MIL-SPEC powder coating solutions tailored to your exact application, taking into account part substrate, end-use environment, and drawing or contract specifications. Our controlled processes and quality standards help ensure reliable, repeatable results for defense and aerospace components. Contact us to discuss your project specifications and performance requirements.