GKN Aerospace and Airbus Helicopters Strengthen Strategic Partnership

GKN Aerospace’s Netherlands-based business, GKN Fokker, has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus Helicopters, reinforcing their long-term collaboration in aerospace defence.

The MoU enhances cooperation on advanced composite technologies and electrical wiring interconnection systems (EWIS) for the Airbus H225M Caracal helicopter. The partnership also supports wider European defence cooperation and industrial autonomy, aligning with ongoing collaboration between Airbus, GKN Aerospace and the Dutch aerospace ecosystem.

This latest agreement builds on a previous MoU signed in 2023, which established a framework for joint work in engineering, EWIS design and manufacturing, and aerostructures.

Airbus Helicopters and GKN Fokker share a longstanding partnership, most notably through their joint involvement in the NH90 programme within the NHIndustries consortium alongside Leonardo. The new MoU reaffirms both companies’ commitment to innovation, industrial growth in the Netherlands and Europe, and deeper engagement with Dutch industry and government.

John Pritchard, President Civil Airframe of GKN Aerospace, said: “This MoU reflects the trust and shared vision between Airbus Helicopters and GKN Aerospace. Together, we are advancing aerospace technology and strengthening industrial cooperation in the Netherlands and Europe.”

 

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