GKN Aerospace and Airbus Helicopters have marked a significant step in a long-standing partnership following the recent pre-selection of Airbus H225M helicopters for Special Operations to the MoD of the Netherlands.

GKN will provide essential support in areas such as engineering, electrical wiring interconnections systems (EWIS) design and manufacturing, as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul activities. It will also lead potential innovation projects and aerostructures design and manufacturing, with a particular focus on composite structures. The collaboration will strengthen the aerospace industry in the Netherlands and foster innovation within the Dutch aerospace eco-system. The companies have a long history of collaboration as partners in NHIndustries, the NH90 manufacturing consortium, together with Leonardo.

Shawn Black, President Defence Airframe of GKN Aerospace, says: "We have been working closely with Airbus Helicopters as partners on the NH90 program since 1992 and have actively supported them during the pre-selection phase with the Dutch MoD. The signing of the MoU represents a significant milestone in our collaboration, reinforcing our partnership and setting the stage for future industrial participation. With our combined expertise and unwavering commitment, we will deliver advanced solutions and provide exceptional support to the Netherlands' helicopter fleet."

Vice Admiral de Waard, National Armaments Director of the Netherlands, his successor Vice Admiral Hartman, and the Commissioner of Military Production Dicke attended the signing ceremony. Shawn Black, President - Defence Airframe at GKN Aerospace, and Matthieu Louvot, Executive Vice President Programmes at Airbus Helicopters, sealed the agreement.