The project required a rapid approach to product development and supply chain management. GKN Aerospace drew on expertise in composite manufacturing, new tooling design and complex product assembly across its network of sites.
The flight-ready components were manufactured at the company’s composite design and assembly facility in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. GKN Aerospace said the delivery demonstrated its ability to produce airworthy prototypes alongside established commercial manufacturing programmes.
“This is the latest example of GKN Aerospace’s ability to turn complex, clean-sheet designs into flight-ready reality at an unprecedented pace,” said Rupert Dix, SVP Defence at GKN Aerospace. “By combining our advanced engineering with cutting-edge manufacturing, we are actively shaping the future of next-generation combat air power for the UK and our global allies.”
The programme expands GKN Aerospace’s role in the development of Britain’s next-generation combat air capabilities. It also applies the company’s domestic engineering and manufacturing capacity to emerging UK defence requirements.
“The rapid progression from concept to prototype integration is a remarkable achievement,” said Mark Wilson, Head of Autonomous Collaborative Platforms at BAE Systems. “GKN Aerospace’s industrial expertise, agility and commitment to collaboration have been pivotal in delivering high-quality, flight-ready structures within an extraordinarily compressed timeline.”
GKN Aerospace said it intends to continue applying its UK industrial capabilities to current and future defence programmes. The company will also use that expertise to support customers across its wider international business.
