Element U.S. Space & Defense stands at the forefront of testing innovation, as a trusted partner to NASA, the U.S. Department of Defense, government agencies and prominent industry leaders across the space and defense sectors.
Our Role in the Element Family
Element U.S. Space & Defense’s proud heritage began with NTS, a world leader in product qualification testing services. Following the acquisition of NTS by Element Materials Technology, the company was reorganized. Twenty NTS labs transitioned into the Element brand, solidifying their position as the foremost global testing partner across aerospace, nuclear, energy, connected technology, and automotive sectors. Meanwhile, our six NTS facilities retained their autonomy under the name NTS Technical Systems. Now operating as Element U.S. Space & Defense, this division remains a pivotal testing ally for mission-critical U.S. government space and defense initiatives.
What We Do
Founded as NTS Technical Systems, today Element U.S. Space & Defense brings more than 60 years of experience and expertise being tasked with the most complex projects and programs in the world.
From centrifuge testing for the latest Mars rover, vibration testing for the Space Launch System (SLS), or environmental simulations for next-generation missiles, Element U.S. Space & Defense is the pioneering partner for highly custom, end-to-end, testing design and implementation.
As a leader in testing, inspection, and certification, Element U.S. Space & Defense specializes in conducting military grade testing for the following, and more:
By advancing its state-of-the-art testing technologies, subject matter expertise, and service to critical missions, Element U.S. Space & Defense has become the go-to partner for ground-breaking industries.
Ask an Expert
Aaron Cohen and Dr. Jack Lin co-found Associated Engineering Test Laboratories (AETL) on November 27, 1961 to provide high-tech testing services to a variety of industries.
AETL goes public and is renamed National Technical Systems. The Fullerton, CA location is established through the purchase of Ogden Technology Laboratories.
NTS acquires Dynamic Testing Inc. which expands its Navy Testing capabilities through with the addition of a 36-acre quarry for performing MIL-DTL-901E Heavyweight Shock Testing.
Qualtest teams up with NTS to provide full-service testing at two locations in the greater Orlando area.
Located in Belcamp, MD, Chesapeake Testing is a state-of-the-art testing provider for ballistics and body armor testing, consisting of eight indoor firing ranges.
Element Materials Technology acquires NTS and NTS Technical Systems is established.
NTS Technical Systems is renamed to Element U.S. Space & Defense
"I would like to extend great gratitude from our entire program team for Element U.S. Space & Defense's (Camden, AR) recent execution of a high priority test series. The team's rapid reaction and execution to our request to conduct these tests in such a compressed schedule was vital for meeting a critical program deadline and aiding in the success our program."
"Ryan demonstrated strong technical knowledge, professionalism, and a high level of dedication to the work. Communication was clear, consistent, and effective, which helped ensure that all requirements and concerns were addressed promptly.
I especially appreciate the fast approach to resolving issues, the quick turnaround time, and the instant responses to questions and requests. Ryan was always responsive, approachable, and willing to provide support whenever needed. His proactive attitude, commitment to meeting deadlines, and focus on delivering quality results made the entire process smooth and efficient.
Overall, Ryan’s dedication, excellent communication, and customer-focused approach made a significant positive impact. Thank you for providing reliable and efficient support for EMI testing and laboratory services."
"I just wanted to communicate our appreciation for your team's support (Camden, AR) during the last Aquarium test (March 2026).
Your team really stepped this one up a notch which was critical in, not just the successful test event, but also allowing us to show the customer the complications in this test along with the valuable data collected. Your team did an exceptional job hosting, transporting the customer to the site, and creating the space required for this to be successful.
We really appreciate the effort your team put in and look forward to the follow-on actions and remaining testing as well as the, less formal, 4x aquarium tests on the horizon."
Qualification testing insights periodically delivered to your inbox. Spec explainers, lab stories, and the real reasons hardware passes or fails.
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Stay up to date on our latest news and tests
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact us at (833) 673-8773
