JUNE 2025AEROSPACEDEFENSEREVIEW.COM19maintenance--offering a cleaner, high-performance alternative to outdated coatings.Born in Edmonton, Alberta--Canada's oil and gas hub--Paradigm Shift Technologies initially focused on prolonging the lifespan of petrochemical and energy equipment. A pivotal moment came when Doctor Gennady Yumshtyk presented the company's coating technology at a conference in Montreal.After the presentation, a representative from the U.S. Air Force Environmental Department approached him with a challenge:"Can this technology replace chrome plating inside gun barrels?"The answer was a resounding yes. That unexpected encounter launched Paradigm Shift Technologies' entry into the defense industry, where it now applies coatings to calibers ranging from 5.56mm to 155mm."The journey into the defense industry wasn't planned, but once we saw the potential to eliminate chrome plating and drastically improve performance, we were all in," says Dr.Yumshtyk.The defense sector faces critical challenges--extending barrel life, improving accuracy, increasing reliability, and reducing environmental impact. Paradigm Shift Technologies' coatings solve all of these problems, boosting barrel longevity by up to ten times and significantly improving precision. These advancements lead to reduced ammunition usage, minimized collateral damage, and enhanced operational effectiveness.But overcoming chrome plating's stronghold isn't easy. As a $2 billion industry entrenched for over a century, chrome plating has survived due to economic incentives, intense lobbying, and resistance from OEMs--who profit from frequent barrel replacements. Even a 1993 presidential order aimed at reducing chrome use has been sidestepped through waivers and pressure from special interests."By improving performance and eliminating the threats posed by chrome plating, we continue to overcome industry resistance," says Eugene Yumshtyk, COO at Paradigm Shift Technologies.The Advanced Gun System BreakthroughOne of Paradigm Shift Technologies' biggest achievements was its work on the Advanced Gun System (AGS) program for the U.S. Navy, which aimed to boost barrel longevity by 50 percent. The company's coating technology exceeded expectations by doubling barrel lifespan, earning recognition from BAE Systems as the only company capable of meeting--and surpassing--the program's stringent requirements.Global environmental organizations, including REACH in Europe, have officially recognized Paradigm Shift's technology as the only viable replacement for chrome plating. This recognition is increasing pressure on OEMs to adopt the solution, further strengthening the company's reputation and expanding its influence.While defense remains a target, Paradigm Shift has re-entered the oil and gas market, applying its coatings to pipelines and specialized equipment to increase durability, reduce corrosion, and improve safety and sustainability. Its technology is also proving effective against hydrogen-induced corrosion--a major challenge as industries transition to cleaner energy sources.Despite resistance from entrenched industries, Paradigm Shift continues to drive change. The company's progress is fueled by technological innovation, resilience, and a commitment to providing cleaner, more efficient solutions. As it expands its reach, Paradigm Shift remains dedicated to ensuring that its coatings contribute to a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future.The Era of chrome plating is over.It's time for a Paradigm Shift. The journey into the defense industry wasn't planned, but once we saw the potential to eliminate chrome plating and drastically improve performance, we were all in
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