PPG today announced that it has begun preliminary windshield design work for the Antonov AN-132 multipurpose transport plane, following the execution of a memorandum of understanding.

"PPG looks forward to working with Antonov to complete the windshield design for the AN-132 aircraft using innovative technology that offers reliable performance," said Brent Wright, PPG global director, aerospace transparencies. "This is the first Antonov aircraft for which PPG will provide its transparencies expertise. We appreciate the opportunity to demonstrate our unique ability to work with our customers to address their challenges and bring product benefits that far exceed their expectations."

According to Oleksandr Kryvokon, Antonov company president, Antonov selected PPG to design the identical pilot and co-pilot windshields because of PPG's global leadership and advanced technology.

"PPG is recognized as the world's most experienced aerospace transparencies manufacturer, and its innovative windshield design will contribute to the efficiencies of the AN-132 aircraft through the reduced weight and increased reliability of the cockpit windshields," Kryvokon said. "We are confident that PPG's transparencies will provide advantages to the AN-132 aircraft in the marketplace, and we plan to expand cooperation with PPG to other programs in the future."

Once commercial terms are agreed to, PPG and Antonov will develop the final design and production schedule. Qualification of the two windshields is expected to be completed in 2019.

The Antonov AN-132 multipurpose transport plane is a new generation of the AN-32 aircraft. The program is being implemented by the Antonov company in cooperation with the Saudi King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and Taqnia Aeronautics Co. The first aircraft will be assembled in Ukraine, with series manufacturing transitioning to Saudi Arabia, with the involvement of Taqnia Aeronautics and KACST.

PPG's global aerospace business offers coatings, sealants, transparencies, packaging and application systems, and transparent armor, as well as chemical management and other services.