Corpus Christi Army Depot Launches First Organic Composite Blade Repair Program

CCAD is now the first depot in the U.S. to offer organic composite repair services for helicopter blades.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD) in Texas has launched the first organic composite repair program for helicopter blades in the United States. This initiative is a critical component of the depot's product verification audit process and will allow CCAD to support the Army's enduring fleet of Blackhawk helicopters. The depot is partnering with Sikorsky, a key industry leader, to execute this new capability.

Why it matters

The launch of CCAD's organic composite blade repair program is significant as it allows the depot to take on more maintenance and overhaul work for the Army's critical Blackhawk helicopter fleet. This enhances the depot's role in the military aviation industrial base and ensures the Army's rotorcraft remain mission-ready.

The details

CCAD's new composite blade repair program includes three levels of repair: full overhaul, Category 2 repairs for significant non-structural damage, and Category 3 repairs for complex structural reinforcements. The depot is leveraging non-destructive testing capabilities as part of this process. This new program was developed in partnership with Sikorsky, the manufacturer of the Blackhawk, and will help address potential parts shortages as the LEAP engine is phased out.

  • CCAD launched the organic composite repair program in 2026.
  • CCAD hosted a visit from Sikorsky's Program Director for Black Hawk Sustainment and International Helicopter in 2026.

The players

Corpus Christi Army Depot (CCAD)

A U.S. Army maintenance depot located in Corpus Christi, Texas that specializes in the repair and overhaul of military helicopters and other rotorcraft.

COL Kevin Considine

The commander of the Corpus Christi Army Depot.

Roderick Benson

The Deputy and Chief Operations Officer at the Corpus Christi Army Depot.

Jennifer Martone

The Program Director for Black Hawk Sustainment and International Helicopter at Sikorsky.

Lydon Smiling

An employee at the Corpus Christi Army Depot.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Composite blades aren't going anywhere. CCAD is a very important part of the industrial mix, and the depot takes pride in our products.”

— COL Kevin Considine, Corpus Christi Army Depot Commander (dvidshub.net)

“The Sikorsky name is trusted to execute some of the most demanding military missions. That trust is earned through decades of excellence, and it continues to set the standard for rotary wing aviation.”

— Roderick Benson, Deputy and Chief Operations Officer (dvidshub.net)

“What stands out about our work with Corpus Christi Army Depot is our shared focus on the warfighter. Our visit to CCAD reinforced how our combined expertise keeps Army Aviation mission-ready whenever it's called.”

— Jennifer Martone, Program Director for Black Hawk Sustainment and International Helicopter (dvidshub.net)

“We are grateful for the opportunity to support Sikorsky as a partner, and we take pride in contributing to a legacy that serves those who serve.”

— Roderick Benson, Deputy and Chief Operations Officer (dvidshub.net)

“The process took several years and was delayed through a series of setbacks such as COVID, supply chain, and tooling issues, and now the depot has received three M-model blades.”

— Lydon Smiling (dvidshub.net)

What’s next

CCAD plans to continue expanding its role as a depot product verification auditor to ensure all aircraft parts are airworthy as the LEAP engine is phased out, which could lead to parts shortages.

The takeaway

CCAD's new organic composite blade repair program demonstrates the depot's commitment to supporting the Army's critical Blackhawk helicopter fleet and its ability to adapt and evolve its capabilities to meet the needs of the military aviation industry.