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After a busy and productive Farnborough International Airshow (FIA) in July for the WEAF team, our CEO Colin Turner has provided members with an overview on WEAF engagements, the current state of the aerospace industry, and the challenges facing the supply chain.
Recently, WEAF has been working with Somerset Council into Jaguar Land Rover to understand the battery production requirements of the Gravity Site in Bridgwater. More to follow on this area in due course.
Colin also updated members on how WEAF is staying close to SMR (small modular reactor) developments. This is particularly pertinent considering the announced closure of the National Catapult for Nuclear by Sheffield University. WEAF understands that some of the projects undertaken by the catapult are being transferred to the AMRC in Sheffield.
What does this mean for the South West? Colin said, “It gives us an opportunity to raise our level in terms of nuclear and shout about it. We have three potential sites for build and what we don’t want is to lose the capabilities in terms of advanced manufacturing into a new supply chain.”
WEAF will be monitoring this situation closely alongside advanced composites inspection in the floating offshore wind sector.
After the headiness of the summer show season, a new Labour Government, and the Olympics – Colin delivered a sobering message in relation to the global aerospace market as Boeing’s troubles continue with an aircraft production rate of 31 per month.
In general, aircraft production rates are still impacted by Covid-19. However, Boeing’s production rate is clearly influenced by the ongoing 737 Max issues and strikes; the aerospace giant is clearly working hard on prioritising safety and personnel challenges, but will it be enough to see growth by the close of the year?
It is evident that Airbus is clearly gaining more on the numbers front regarding deliveries with an average of around 57 aircraft per month. In July, Boeing delivered 43 to Airbus’ 77.
Therefore, it is not surprising that Airbus remains vocal on its delivery commitments with a focus on its commercial aircraft ramp-up to increase its production rates. The company has prioritised assessments across all levels of its supply chain and has authorised ‘associated action plans to secure rate readiness’.
Airbus has stated further that it has on-site supply chain experts to support operations and a dedicated taskforce to provide foresight and alleviate any impact from the current geopolitical scenarios.
Colin also addressed the challenges within the supply chain, which has been impacted by the political climate, accessibility to equipment, materials, and recruitment.
In accordance with management consultant, Roland Berger, which released in June its collaborative report “Aerospace supply chain: Resilience Report 2024” with input from across European industry associations, it found industry is fighting to build-up its resilience.
Some recommendations from the report suggest, and not limited to, ‘buffer storage of critical parts, development of alternative/multiple sources, active constraint monitoring and management’. In addition, the set-up of an internal task force, something which as forementioned Airbus is actively doing.
As many members know for more than a decade the UK has invested in SC21 which was designed as an assessment programme. It encourages the competitiveness of the aerospace and defence industries by raising the performance of supply chains. WEAF can put members in touch with those who can evidence the positive results of SC21. Colin said: “SC21 will help you become more productive and contribute to profitability.”
In relation to those within the Airbus supply chain, there is the possibility of a mandatory introduction of Aero Excellence – a new and universal standard of operational excellence for the aerospace and defence community. It is anticipated Aero Excellence will be an additional audit assessment over and above AS 9100 certification.
If you want to learn more on Aero Excellence and its future impact on the supply chain, please register for our upcoming webinar on 13 November. There will be coverage on the comparisons between SC21 and Aero Excellence and the opportunity to ask questions.
Another area WEAF will be closely watching over the next few months is the outcome of the Strategic Defence Review (SDR). The Defence sector will now have to wait to understand how the SDR will influence Government’s decision making on the capabilities needed to meet the evolving battlespace. The final report’s delivery, with recommendations, is anticipated for delivery in early 2025. The Defence Secretary will then report to Parliament.
Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to join us on 28th November for the WEAF Annual Gala Dinner and Awards in Bristol. This year we will be spotlighting those who are Making a Difference – ensure you get your nominations in now and your people are represented. For further information on other events being held by WEAF, please visit our Events page.
About WEAF:
WEAF is the trade association for all companies operating in the Aerospace & Defence sector in the South West.
As one of the largest aerospace and advanced engineering clusters in Europe, we can provide a strong voice for our members, as well as representation and access to prominent regional, national and international decision makers in industry and government.
By providing support and new opportunities for our members, we strive to improve efficiency and effectiveness in the supply chain and bring stakeholders together to create one cohesive community.