Aerospace Manufacturing Compliance: Why SPRS Scores and GCC High Matter More Than Ever

In aerospace manufacturing, compliance is not optional. The Department of Defense (DoD), prime contractors, and auditors are paying closer attention than ever, and even small oversights can cost you valuable contracts.

Having the right IT tools is only part of the equation. True readiness comes from aligning secure cloud solutions, accurate compliance documentation, and a proactive strategy that keeps you prepared every day.

If you are unsure where you stand, now is the time to find out.

Download our Compliance Price Check: Are You Overpaying for Less Protection?
to see if you’re paying too much for IT that leaves you exposed.

Thinking You Are Ready vs. Being Ready

Many aerospace manufacturers assume they are compliant because they:

• Have basic security tools in place,

• Passed a self-check in the past, or

• Haven’t faced an audit recently.

But compliance isn’t static. Documentation becomes outdated, System Security Plans (SSPs) are often incomplete, and required controls can slip through the cracks.

Example: An aerospace parts manufacturer we worked with believed their compliance was solid. They had completed a self-assessment two years prior and hadn’t faced any issues since. But during a readiness review, gaps surfaced: missing multi-factor authentication logs, incomplete incident response testing, and outdated SSPs. Without correction, these oversights could have meant rejected bids or loss of eligibility for DoD contracts.

The bottom line: thinking you’re ready isn’t the same as being ready.

SPRS Scores: What They Are and Why They Matter

Your Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) score is a numerical measure of your cybersecurity compliance, based on how well you meet NIST 800-171 requirements. For many DoD contracts, a minimum score is required to even qualify for bidding.

• A score of 110 = full compliance with all requirements.

• A score of 70–109 = you may still be eligible, but gaps exist that can draw auditor scrutiny.

• A score below 70 = serious red flag. You may be removed from competition before you even submit a proposal.

Self-scoring can create false confidence. Many businesses unintentionally inflate their numbers, not realizing that an official audit will uncover discrepancies. That’s why Charles IT offers  quick scorecard reviews to uncover gaps before they cost you opportunities.

Your SPRS score isn’t just a number,  it’s your ticket to securing high-value contracts, or the reason you’re sidelined.

GCC vs. GCC High: Why Cloud Choice Matters

Microsoft offers two secure cloud environments for regulated industries: GCC (Government Community Cloud) and GCC High. While both offer strong security, they aren’t interchangeable for aerospace manufacturers.

• GCC: Meets basic federal security needs but does not meet the stricter FedRAMP High or DoD IL5 requirements.

• GCC High: Built for organizations that handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) data. Meets FedRAMP High and DoD IL5 standards, offering the highest level of protection for sensitive government data.

For aerospace manufacturers, the distinction matters. Many primes and DoD contracts require GCC High, and failing to use it can disqualify you from opportunities. Charles IT
is proud to be one of only 43 providers nationwide approved to sell Microsoft GCC High licensing. That exclusive capability ensures aerospace contractors have the security foundation they need to stay eligible and competitive.

The Case for Strategic Support

Cloud licensing alone won’t keep you compliant. Aerospace manufacturers also need a long-term strategy that keeps their compliance posture strong. This includes:

• Managed Compliance Programs – Continuous monitoring and documentation to stay audit-ready.

• Security Monitoring & Incident Response – Ensuring threats are detected and addressed quickly.

• Gap Analysis & Documentation Management – Identifying missing controls and maintaining up-to-date SSPs and POA&Ms.

Charles IT supports your GCC High environment while also offering these managed services separately. The goal isn’t just to check the box for compliance, but to create a sustainable, revenue-protecting strategy that keeps you moving forward.

What You Can Learn in 15 Minutes

We know aerospace leaders, compliance officers, and IT managers are busy. That’s why we offer a 15-minute Aerospace Compliance Briefing, a quick, focused session designed to give you immediate clarity.

In just 15 minutes, we can help you: 

• Provide a simple check of your compliance and IT setup

• Highlight where you may be exposed to risk or inefficiency

• Share quick, actionable next steps to strengthen your compliance posture

Think you’re fine? Let us confirm it. Most clients discover at least one area where they are at risk of losing points, or worse, contracts.

 Download the Compliance Price Check: Are You Overpaying for Less Protection?, then book your 15-minute review with our compliance experts.

Conclusion

Compliance is more than checking a box. Done right, it’s a strategic advantage that helps aerospace manufacturers protect their contracts and grow revenue. But only if you’re paying for the right solutions.

With Charles IT, you get:

• Exclusive access to GCC High licensing (only 43 providers in the U.S.),

• A managed compliance strategy that goes beyond the basics,

• The peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re covered.

Start making every IT dollar count.

Download the Compliance Price Check today and see whether your compliance program is setting you up to win, or quietly holding you back.