SCHOTT Introduces Assembled Protective Windows Manufactured in the U.S.

SCHOTT consolidates melting, precision polishing, advanced coating technologies, and mechanical integration within its U.S. operations, eliminating dependence on fragmented, multi-vendor supply chains for critical optical components. SCHOTT’s robotic adhesive dispensing and high precision framing capabilities support adaptable large geometries delivering consistent optical performance at scale. This comes at a pivotal time, as defense organizations increasingly prioritize secure and domestic sources for mission-essential technologies.

“Protective windows determine whether a sensor sees clearly in the field or degrades under stress, and when multiple suppliers touch such a critical optical component, risk increases,” said Clayton Carpenter, Senior Sales Manager for Defense at SCHOTT. “By controlling the entire process in the United States, from substrate production to final assembly, SCHOTT removes that uncertainty and delivers assemblies fabricated for reliable performance in demanding environments.”

Supporting exterior sensor-based systems, the company supplies assembled protective windows utilizing manufacturing processes customized to meet requirements of specific customer designs. These windows are a first line of defense for sensitive optical and electro-optical systems, shielding critical components from dust, sand, rocks, humidity, debris, and mechanical stress while preserving transmission across harsh operational environments.

Durable anti-reflective coatings enhance scratch resistance and maintain spectral performance after abrasion, sand, salt fog, and humidity exposure. Each unit undergoes pressure and quality assurance testing in accordance with military standards to ensure reliability in field deployment. The integrated process supports seamless transition from prototype to production, enabling applications such as periscopes, targeting systems, electro-optical sensors, and other defense equipment.

SCHOTT’s U.S. defense presence dates back to its support of the U.S. Air Force in 1969, establishing a foundation that continues to shape the company’s role in advanced optics today. With more than half a century of experience serving defense programs, SCHOTT delivers specialty glass, precision optics, and advanced coating technologies engineered for mission-critical applications across land, sea, air, and space domains.

Learn more about the assembled protective windows that will be on display at Booth 1013 at SPIE Defense + Security, April 28-30, 2026, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. SCHOTT will also host a webinar on May 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. EDT (11:00 a.m. PDT), providing additional insight into its integrated assembly and coating capabilities.