GKN Aerospace Reinvigorates Supply Chain to Deliver First C-27J Nacelles to Leonardo in Over 5 Years

November 26, 2024

GKN Aerospace has delivered its first two engine nacelles to Leonardo for the C-27J program in more than five years. (Image: GKN Aerospace)

GKN Aerospace announced the successful delivery of the first two C-27J nacelles to Leonardo Aircraft since 2018, marking a significant milestone in the revitalization of its supply chain and production capabilities.

This achievement highlights GKN Aerospace’s dedication to supporting the C-27J platform and reaffirms its commitment to the long-term in-service support of the aircraft. The first nacelle was delivered in September, followed by the second nacelle in October, aligning with Leonardo’s milestone to commence test flights and certification before year-end.

The accomplishment reflects the successful engagement of over 40 suppliers, the re-establishment of complex composite and assembly manufacturing capabilities, and the securing of business continuity for the C-27J nacelle over the next five years. The program has seen GKN Aerospace collaborate closely with Leonardo, including participation in the inaugural joint supplier and end-user conference held in Turin.

"This milestone illustrates GKN Defence’s unwavering dedication to our customers and the expertise of our Cowes team,” said Shawn Black, President Defence Airframe, GKN Aerospace. “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved in this journey, demonstrating our commitment to delivering excellence in defence aerostructures."

The nacelle’s composite components are produced at GKN Aerospace’s Cowes site and integrated with a variety of parts sourced from across Europe, the U.K., and U.S., ranging from titanium machining to wiring systems. GKN Aerospace’s Fokker business manufactures the harnesses integral to the nacelle, exemplifying GKN Aerospace’s full-spectrum manufacturing capabilities.

"The team’s tremendous effort to deliver the first two Leonardo C-27J nacelles, for a product that was last manufactured in 2018, is a testament to the collaboration across our site, our supply chain, and the entire team’s dedication to our customer commitments,” said Rupert Dix, SVP Defence Airframe – Europe, GKN Aerospace.

GKN Aerospace has been a design and manufacturing partner for the C-27J program since its inception in the 1990s.

Source