GKN Aerospace deliver C-27J nacelles to Leonardo

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

Image courtesy GKN

This achievement highlights GKN Aerospace's support of 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 programme has seen GKN Aerospace collaborate closely with Leonardo, including participation in the inaugural joint supplier and end-user conference held in Turin.

Shawn Black, President Defence Airframe said: "This milestone illustrates GKN Defence's unwavering dedication to our customers and the expertise of our Cowes team. 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 the EU, UK and US, 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.

Rupert Dix, SVP Defence Airframe - Europe said: "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."

GKN Aerospace has been a design and manufacturing partner for the C-27J programme since its inception in the 1990s. This latest nacelle delivery underscores the strength and versatility of GKN Aerospace's capabilities in complex aerostructures and its ongoing support of the global defence sector.