In an era where demand for high-performance aircraft is soaring, GKN Aerospace is making a bold move. The company has announced plans to double the F-35 canopy production capacity at its Garden Grove, California, site. This expansion will not only reinforce GKN Aerospace’s leadership position in military transparencies but also create more than 100 new jobs.
GKN Aerospace: The Power of Investment
With a customer investment of up to $150m, GKN Aerospace is set to support tools and equipment for a state-of-the-art new production line. This significant investment will help meet the continued demand for the F-35 Lightning II over the next decade. Since the start of the programme, GKN Aerospace has been providing F-35s worldwide with its unique high-performance cockpit canopy.
Expansion on the Horizon
The expansion, set to be completed by January 2027, will see the new production line built near GKN Aerospace’s existing Garden Grove facility. It will create skilled roles across a range of disciplines, including manufacturing and engineering. Currently, GKN Aerospace employs around 540 people at its industry-leading Garden Grove site, which designs, manufactures, and provides aftermarket support for advanced military and commercial transparencies.
A Word from the Top
Shawn Black, President of GKN Aerospace’s Defence Airframe business, expressed his pride and honour in supporting the F-35 for the next decade. He said, « This investment is a crucial step, enabling us to provide the growing international F-35 fleet with the very latest transparencies technology, to help keep servicemen and women safe around the world. The agreements will also see more than 100 highly skilled jobs created at GKN Aerospace, as well as supporting thousands more jobs in the global supply chain. This investment is a win for GKN Aerospace, the F-35 programme and the many countries it supports, and the team can’t wait to ramp up our production and deliver.”
Beyond the Canopy
GKN Aerospace’s contribution to the F-35 programme extends beyond the cockpit canopies. The company has provided critical engine components, electrical wiring interconnection systems, and advanced composite aerostructures. It also holds contracts to deliver the in-flight opening doors, flaperons, and the arresting gear.
A New Dawn in Aerospace Manufacturing
In conclusion, GKN Aerospace’s decision to double its F-35 canopy production capacity is a testament to its commitment to innovation and growth. As the demand for advanced military aircraft continues to rise, GKN Aerospace is poised to meet this challenge head-on, reinforcing its position as a leader in the aerospace industry.
