Here's a roundup of some of the latest news from around the aerospace industry.
Rolls-Royce Investing Heavily in Indianapolis Facilities
Rolls-Royce will invest almost $600 million to modernize its aerospace manufacturing operations in Indianapolis and conduct technology research. The five-year plan will allow the company to replace outdated facilities and accelerate the introduction of advanced manufacturing methods. The investment, which includes major renovations at two plants and new assembly operations, will reduce utility costs for the company. Click here for more information.
High-School Program Focused on Aerospace
A pilot program in Utah will permit high-school seniors to get paid internships, graduate with a certificate in aerospace manufacturing and immediately begin a career. Seven high schools in two districts collaborated with six industry partners to develop academic courses that match the skills the companies are looking for in graduates. Between 40 and 60 students will enroll in the program. Click here to learn more about this program and the industry partners.
GE to Invest $200 Million in Jet-Engine Facilities
General Electric Co. is preparing for the future. The company is aiming to build two new facilities in Alabama to produce advanced materials for jet engines. The twin plants would employ 300 people, creating a "Rocket City" in Huntsville. The company plans to invest up to $200 million in the project, with funding from the Air Force, which would make ceramic matrix composites that can withstand the extremely hot temperatures inside turbines. Read more.
Air Force Finds Partner for Long-Range Bomber
The U.S. Air Force chose Northrop Grumman to deliver the nation's new Long-Range Strike Bomber (LRS-B). This selection continues the company's 35-year partnership with the Air Force. Northrop Grumman also developed the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. According to reports, the new program is estimated at nearly $1 trillion over 30 years.
Materialise to Deliver 3D-Printed Parts for Airbus
Materialise NV, a provider of additive-manufacturing software and of 3D-printing solutions, announced that its certified factory for 3D Printing is now manufacturing parts for the Airbus A350 XWB. According to Materialise, Airbus understands and appreciates the benefits that 3D printing and additive manufacturing (AM) can bring to the A350 XWB. As such, Materialise will deliver end-use, flight-ready parts to Airbus.
