Hitachi Metals, Ltd., Kobe Steel, Ltd., IHI Corporation, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. (or KHI) have jointly established a joint venture called Japan Aeroforge, Ltd. to manufacture large forgings for use in aircraft and power plants.

Japan Aeroforge will install Japan's first 50,000 metric ton forging press. The advanced forging press will manufacture large forgings mainly for the aircraft industry, which is growing worldwide.

The four companies that have invested in Japan Aeroforge are making full efforts in preparing for the start of production at Japan Aeroforge. The strengths of each of the four companies will provide the joint venture with strong support and will contribute to improving the competitiveness of Japan's aircraft industry.