Aernnova, the leading international aerostructures company, announces that it has signed an agreement to acquire GE Aviation's aerostructures business in Hamble, UK ("Hamble").

Building on more than 80 years of history, and employing around 700 people, Hamble is a leading supplier of major civil and military aircraft structures in hi-tech composites, metallic, acrylics and hybrid structures.

The facility is equipped to handle large components and complex structures, including the wing fixed trailing-edge (WFTE) for the Airbus A350 XWB. The WFTE involves over 3.000 deliverable components and requires the integration of metallic and composite wing-based systems as well as provisions for moving structures (flaps, ailerons and spoilers).

Hamble also provides the complete engine nacelle assembly for the De Havilland Dash 8 Q400 regional turbo prop and the cockpit windscreen and canopy systems for the BAE Systems Hawk and T-45 Goshawk trainer aircraft, among other elements.

Hamble retains Customer Delegated Design Authority (CDDA) for major programs, allowing the company to execute component design modifications and upgrades.

In the same manner as Aernnova, Hamble is an active participant in Clean Sky 2, the largest European aeronautical R&D initiative.

The Hamble facility significantly increases Aernnova's design and manufacturing capabilities, complements its product portfolio and strengthens the company's position as a Tier 1 supplier to multiple civil and military programmes.

The acquisition of the Hamble business establishes a base of operations for Aernnova in the UK, one of the world's largest aerospace and defence markets, with a highly skilled and expert workforce. Aernnova's acquisition of Hamble also includes specific assets at GE Aviation's facility in Suzhou, China, which will continue to manufacture components for Hamble for the Airbus A320 and A350 XWB programs.

The acquisition of the Hamble facility will increase Aernnova's long-term, predictable revenues by approximately $200 million per year.

Aernnova's purchase of Hamble has received the support of Airbus, the facility's largest customer.

Mr. Inaki Lopez Gandasegui, Chairman & CEO of Aernnova, said:

"We are proud to welcome the Hamble facility as the newest member of the Aernnova family. This acquisition is another step forward in Aernnova's growth strategy, further underlining the company's status as a global leader in the design and manufacturing of composite aerostructures."