Ascent AeroSystems Achieves CMMC 2.0 Certification, Setting New Benchmark for Secure U.S. Drone Manufacturing

The Massachusetts-based Ascent AeroSystems becomes the first CMMC 2.0 certified drone manufacturer with a perfect score.

Ascent AeroSystems, a U.S. manufacturer of rugged, all-weather coaxial unmanned aerial systems (UAS), has announced that it is the first domestic small drone maker to achieve Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2. The company earned a perfect assessment score of 110 out of 110, placing it among less than one percent of the U.S. Defense Industrial Base that has met this requirement ahead of the Department of Defense’s (DoD) November 2025 implementation deadline.

This certification confirms that Ascent has fully implemented and validated its cybersecurity and information security controls to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The achievement strengthens its position as a trusted supplier of NDAA-compliant UAS platforms for defense, aerospace, and government customers.

“In today’s complex and ever-changing security landscape, cybersecurity readiness is a cornerstone of national defense readiness,” said Paul Fermo, President of Ascent AeroSystems. “At Ascent, our commitment to security is part of our DNA. Achieving CMMC 2.0 certification further demonstrates our dedication to the highest possible standards as a U.S. manufacturer and supplier of NDAA-compliant Unmanned Aerial Systems.”

Meeting DoD Security and Performance Goals

CMMC 2.0 certification will become a foundational requirement for working with the DoD beginning in late 2025. Currently, fewer than 400 organizations across the Defense Industrial Base have earned this level of compliance.

With its certification in place, Ascent is now positioned to support the DoD’s growing reliance on secure, modular, and scalable uncrewed systems. The company’s combination of proven manufacturing expertise, modular open systems architecture (MOSA)-ready design, Blue UAS Cleared and NDAA-compliant platforms, and advanced cybersecurity controls make it a strong fit for the DoD’s long-term ecosystem strategy.

“Being the first small UAS manufacturer to earn CMMC 2.0 certification is also a testament to the rigor and discipline of our team,” Fermo added. “Their unwavering commitment to excellence is at the core of why Ascent continues to be a trusted, ready partner to deliver the secure, American-made UAS solutions the DoD requires.”

A Secure Foundation for U.S. Drone Manufacturing

Ascent AeroSystems’ certification comes at a time when cybersecurity has become a top priority in defense supply chains. The company’s success demonstrates how U.S.-based drone manufacturers can align with federal security standards while maintaining high production quality and performance.

Now backed by Robinson Helicopter Company, Ascent combines American manufacturing capacity with advanced design features that enable field upgradability and reduce obsolescence. This blend of scalability, modularity, and cybersecurity readiness positions the company as a leading contributor to the DoD’s goal of creating a secure and sustainable UAS ecosystem.

About Ascent AeroSystems

Ascent AeroSystems designs and manufactures coaxial unmanned aerial vehicles for defense, public safety, and industrial users. Its compact, cylindrical platforms are designed for rugged, all-weather operation and mission-critical reliability.

Acquired in 2024 by Torrance, California-based Robinson Helicopter Company, Ascent operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of the aerospace OEM.

More information is available at ascentaerosystems.com.

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