Case Study: U.S. Naval Observatory Master Time Clocks Facility
Executive Summary
Competition Composites Inc. (CCI), based in Arnprior, Ontario, was awarded a high-profile contract to design and manufacture a precision fibreglass radome for the United States Naval Observatory’s (USNO) Master Time Clocks Facility in Washington, D.C. This project underscores CCI’s capabilities in delivering mission-critical, aerospace-grade composite structures that meet the rigorous demands of defense and scientific institutions.
Client / Project Introduction
The United States Naval Observatory (USNO) is one of the world’s foremost institutions for timekeeping. It supports the U.S. Department of Defense, GPS systems, and countless civilian applications. As part of a broader modernization effort at its historic Washington, D.C. campus, the USNO sought a robust radome solution to house and protect critical antenna systems atop Building 78 (Simon Newcomb Laboratory).
Challenge
The modernization project required a radome that could:
Maintain uninterrupted precision signal performance
Withstand a range of environmental stresses
Meet aesthetic and structural requirements for a heritage site
Integrate with cutting-edge timing and communications systems
This structure needed to deliver exceptional reliability while preserving the historic integrity of the facility.
Strategy
CCI was selected for its deep expertise in aerospace-grade composite solutions. The team:
Designed an 18-foot diameter fiberglass composite radome, engineered to enclose and protect sensitive antenna systems
Manufactured the radome in-house to meet exacting structural and environmental standards
Delivered the solution on time and to spec, working in close alignment with USNO and Department of Defense stakeholders
“We are proud to contribute to such a vital project for one of the most important scientific and defense institutions in the world,” said Phil Locker, President of CCI. “Our team’s expertise in advanced composites and aerospace-grade manufacturing uniquely positions us to deliver the reliability and performance this mission requires.”
Results
Protected Infrastructure: The radome now safeguards critical timing and navigation equipment from environmental interference.
Enhanced Resilience: The project reinforces the operational security of the Master Time Clocks Facility, a globally critical asset.
International Collaboration: This contract exemplifies the strong Canada-U.S. relationship in science, defense, and innovation.
Reputation Growth: The successful execution of this high-profile contract further solidifies CCI’s role as a trusted global supplier of advanced composite structures.
Radome Rendering
Radome Rendering on Rooftop
Looking for precision composite solutions for your next mission-critical project?
Contact us today to see how CCI can deliver industry-leading performance, reliability, and protection.
📩 phil@cci.one
📞 (613) 599-6951