The plans are part of a £100 million boost for the UK aerospace industry that includes £20 million of investment into high-tech Masters courses and apprenticeships.
Six projects will share £80 million for aerospace research to help deliver growth and innovation in key areas of technology. This funding comes from a £2 billion pot committed jointly by industry and government as part of our industrial strategy, through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI). The projects involve 18 companies, 11 academic or research institutions and 5 Catapult centres from across the UK.
The 6 projects receiving funding from the ATI are:
- £14 million for 9 partners led by Rolls-Royce – and including McLaren Racing – for high-tech research projects, using Formula 1 know-how to help develop high power gearboxes for future jet engines.
- £14 million for 9 partners, led by Airbus, to design improved landing gear for future aircraft, including introducing electric taxi technology so that engines can be switched off immediately after landing, saving fuel and reducing emissions.
- £9 million for 7 companies, led by Airbus Group, to improve the management of power used on aircraft and replace hydraulic systems with electric control systems. This will deliver lighter, greener aircraft, reducing CO2 emissions and saving airlines up to an estimated £2 billion annually.
- £10 million for 5 companies, led by GE Aviation Systems, to develop advanced printed circuit board test equipment, to improve the manufacture of high quality electronics that can operate in harsh environments.
- £17 million for a project led by Rolls-Royce working with suppliers to develop new concepts for future engine architectures to improve environmental performance.
- £16 million for Airbus, Marshalls ADG and Bristol, Loughborough and Cranfield Universities to research and test innovations in wing design.
Along with the Governments investment, top aerospace firms are also investing £20 million in the skills that will take the sector to new heights. The funding will provide a boost to industry skills at all levels, with the creation of new high-tech Masters courses, apprenticeships and careers opportunities for young people and graduates alike.
Led by global aircraft manufacturer Airbus, through the Aerospace Growth Partnership, the skills project also sees leading employers including Augusta Westland in Yeovil, BAE in Hook and GKN in South Gloucestershire joining together to develop existing and future aerospace talent.