Introducing Waymaker, our new dedicated LEO rideshare program Learn more
September 25, 2025 • NEWS

Quality. Precision. Speed. Why SEOPS Chose AJG for Keystone Manufacturing

Keystone, our new satellite separation system, represents a significant leap forward in simplicity, reliability, and affordability for small and mid-sized satellite deployment. When it came time to select a manufacturing partner to bring this vision to life, SEOPS turned to a name synonymous with precision and performance: AJG Aerospace.

We’re proud to announce that AJG Aerospace is our exclusive manufacturing partner for Keystone, with all production taking place at their state-of-the-art facility in Clarkston, Michigan.

Built for Simplicity. Manufactured for Excellence.

Keystone is designed to solve critical cost, complexity, and reliability challenges in traditional satellite deployment systems. With sizes available in 8″, 15″, 24″ and 31.6” ring configurations, and lead times as short as two months, Keystone is engineered to meet — and often exceed — the most rigorous Launch Vehicle Provider (LVP) standards.

The Architecture Offers:
  • Simplified Operation: Intuitive mating/de-mating functionality boosts strength and minimizes risk.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: More economical alternative to legacy systems without compromising on quality or performance.
  • High Capacity Design: Maximizes payload mass (up to 850kg!). 
  • Re-settable Release Mechanisms: Supporting repeatable, reliable testing and streamlined integration.

Why AJG Aerospace?

The decision to partner exclusively with AJG Aerospace was driven by a shared vision of innovation, quality, and performance. SEOPS chose AJG for several key reasons:

  • Proven Expertise in Aerospace Manufacturing: The AJG Aerospace team brings decades of experience machining high-performance parts for many of the world’s leading aerospace companies. Their track record makes them an ideal long-term partner for SEOPS — not only are they technically skilled, but they’re already deeply embedded in the aerospace ecosystem. From large scale aerospace tooling and mechanical structures to carbon fiber parts and components, their capabilities span key sectors:
    • Aircraft Components–Precision parts and tooling for both private and commercial aviation, supporting OEMs and MROs with high-performance solutions.
    • Spacecraft Parts–Custom, mission-critical components built to meet the demanding requirements of commercial and government space missions.
    • Satellite Segments–Complex, high-precision parts designed for satellite platforms, built to perform reliably in the most extreme conditions.
  • U.S.-Owned and Operated: As a U.S.-based company, AJG ensures ITAR compliance, secure supply chains, and rapid domestic delivery — all critical for mission success in today’s fast-moving space environment.
  • Quality Without Compromise: AJG’s rigorous Quality Management System guarantees consistency, precision, and reliability. With their AS9100D certification,  components are built to exact specifications, on time, every time. Their commitment to continuous improvement ensures we stay ahead of the curve.
  • Competitive Cost and Delivery: With AJG, we’re able to deliver Keystone units in as little as 6 weeks — a timeline nearly unheard of in this sector. Combine that with a cost-effective manufacturing model, and we’re passing significant savings and scheduling advantages on to our customers.

Looking Ahead

“At AJG Aerospace, our unwavering commitment to excellence is reflected in every part we machine. We’re proud to support SEOPS and the Keystone system, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in satellite deployment,” said Kent Blackwell, President, AJG Aerospace. “We appreciate their trust in our abilities to meet the market need.”

The Keystone system is more than just hardware — it’s a philosophy of smarter, leaner, more accessible space operations. By teaming up with AJG Aerospace, SEOPS is ensuring that our vision is backed by industry-leading manufacturing quality and reliability.

To learn more about Keystone and request the Payload User’s Guide, visit this page. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to innovate at the intersection of engineering and orbital delivery.

Share

Recent blog posts.

View all news
September 17, 2026

SmallSat 2026 – Alex Drossler on SEOPS’ New SpaceX Rideshare Missions and Easing the Wait for Orbit

At SmallSat, SpaceWatch Global interviewed SEOP’s VP of Dedicated Launch Operations Alex Drossler. Watch and listen in!

Read more
September 15, 2026

Isar Aerospace signs Multiple Launch Service Agreement with US-based SEOPS for Five Additional Launches

Munich/Paris, 15 September 2026 – Isar Aerospace has signed a Multiple Launch Service Agreement with SEOPS for five dedicated launches. The missions will be launched with Isar Aerospace’s launch vehicle Spectrum between 2028 and 2030 from the company’s dedicated launch complex at Andøya Space and Spaceport Nova Scotia. The contract brings the 2028 manifest of …

Read more
August 20, 2026

Meet Evan Ferlic: SEOPS’ New Business Development Director

We are pleased to announce that Evan Ferlic has joined SEOPS as our new Business Development Director.  Evan brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the space industry to our team. Evan joins us from SpaceX, where he was a key member of the launch sales team. During his tenure there, he …

Read more