GKN Aerospace has announced the creation of a new aero engine component repair (MRO) and research facility in Johor, Malaysia.

The facility will open in 2019 and will service engine fan blades and fan discs for commercial aircraft. The facility will provide additional capacity to GKN Aerospace’s existing facility in San Diego, CA to meet growing demand in the Asia Pacific region.

The move further strengthens GKN Aerospace’s operational footprint in Asia, bringing it closer to customers in the region. The expansion is an important part of GKN Aerospace’s long-term growth strategy and global operating model.

Johor is centrally located for aero engine customers in the region, with access to the skilled workforce and strong infrastructure. GKN Aerospace intends to add research capability to the facility and will work with local knowledge institutes to adopt new technologies and grow the product offerings for the new generation of aero engines. The support of the Malaysian Government and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) was essential in identifying the location of a suitable and competitive site.

GKN Aerospace already operates six facilities in Asia, delivering wiring systems, transparencies and services in China, India, Singapore, Thailand and Turkey. With this latest expansion, GKN Aerospace’s leading engine systems business will have its first site in the Asian-Pacific region, which is a key growth market for the future.

Joakim Andersson, CEO Engine Systems said: “This new facility highlights GKN’s commitment to support our customers in Asia, as well as demonstrating our intention to grow our engine capabilities. The Government of Malaysia has been a key facilitator of our decision to locate in their country and I thank them for their support. Our new facility will be a state-of-the-art parts repair and research facility allowing us to leverage the skills of local employees to provide world-class service and quality to our customers.”

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