GKN Aerospace and Shanghai Aircraft Manufacturing Company (SAMC) have revised their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and signed further agreements covering manufacturing development and intellectual property rights for structures for the COMAC 919 next generation, twin turbofan, narrow body, 150 seat aircraft. SAMC is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Commercial Aircraft Company of China Ltd (COMAC).

In collaboration with SAMC, GKN Aerospace is to manufacture and assemble the composite horizontal tail plane (HTP) for the C919. The carbon fibre HTP is made using current advanced composite processes. It consists of two major torque-box assemblies joined together at a centre rib and includes the elevator assemblies. Working with SAMC, GKN Aerospace will carry out the HTP development activities and, on completion of this phase, will move into a manufacturing joint venture. This JV will be called Shanghai GKN-SAMC Aerospace Composite Structure Manufacturing Co. Ltd.

Marcus Bryson, Chief Executive Officer – GKN Aerospace and Land Systems comments: "The on-going success of this collaboration with SAMC represents both an important expansion of GKN's long established working relationship with China and a vital technological step forward in our work on the design and manufacture of advanced composite components and structures."

GKN has had a 25 year-long presence in China. Today the company employs 5000 people and manufactures in 12 locations across China. This foundation underpins and advises the growing relationship between COMAC and GKN Aerospace.