The Safran Aero Boosters and BMT Aerospace MoU encompasses a Research and Technology project aimed at producing the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine structural parts through innovative processes.
Safran Aero Boosters, based in Belgium’s Walloon region, and BMT Aerospace from Flanders have joined forces under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Pratt & Whitney on December 10, 2023. The signing occurred during the roll-out ceremony for Belgium’s first F35 aircraft at Lockheed Martin in Texas, attended by Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and a Belgian delegation.
The MoU encompasses a Research and Technology project aimed at producing engine structural parts through innovative processes. The collaboration involves sharing industrial tools and expected commercial returns between Flanders and Wallonia. Safran Aero Boosters has inked a second MoU with Pratt & Whitney, focusing on developing a new manufacturing technology applicable to a family of components for the F135 engine. This will lead to the establishment of a dedicated production line near Liège in Belgium.
“I’d like to thank the Ministry of Defense and the Walloon government for their ongoing support in building these long-term agreements with engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney. We hope to bring to fruition these projects to obtain this billion-euro business in Belgium, with the resulting jobs and technological advances,” said François Lepot, CEO of Safran Aero Boosters
Safran Aero Boosters specializes in designing, developing, and producing low-pressure compressors, oil equipment, and test cells for aerospace propulsion. The company, a member of the Safran Group, equips a significant portion of the world’s civil aircraft and the European launch vehicle Ariane. BMT Aerospace, on the other hand, is a leading player in the manufacturing of aerospace geared parts, supporting major aircraft and aerospace engine companies globally. With operations in Belgium, Romania, and the USA, BMT Aerospace is known for raising standards in the aerospace industry, particularly in gears, gearboxes, transmissions, and actuators. The company is also actively involved in additive manufacturing applications, contributing to aerospace projects and innovations in this field.
“This project, for which we are partnering with Safran Aero Boosters, represents a substantial volume of industrial return for Belgium’s purchase of the F35: we’re talking about 700 million euros in business over the life of this highly promising program,” said Benoit Reynders, CEO, BMT Aerospace.
Also Read – Airbus to deliver 100 more A321neo jets to Avolon
This collaboration is poised to bring together the expertise of two leading companies, contributing to the advancement of aerospace technologies and reinforcing Belgium’s position in the global aerospace landscape. The joint effort in Research and Technology projects and innovative manufacturing technologies underscores a commitment to excellence and growth in the aerospace sector.
