GKN to supply key composite and metal structures for Bell 525

GKN Aerospace has been
selected to provide Bell Helicopter with key metal and composite structures
across the new 525 Relentless helicopter fuselage.

This major work package
includes composite and aluminium fuselage panels and structural parts installed
in the cockpit, cabin and tailboom. Manufacture will begin in late 2012 with
initial deliveries scheduled for 2013 and continuing through to the end of
2015.

Two GKN Aerospace North
American facilities, in St. Louis, Missouri and Tallassee,
Alabama, will undertake the
manufacture of these components and assemblies. The St Louis site will supply complex machined
aluminium bulkheads, frames and spars and the Tallassee site will produce
composite structure including skins, bulkheads and frame assemblies.

Kevin Cummings, chief
executive, GKN Aerospace, North America
commented: “GKN Aerospace engineers have worked closely with the Bell
Helicopter team through the structural design phase of this programme. Together
we have met the demanding weight and performance requirements for structures
and assemblies that will equip this airframe from tip to tail – and whose
manufacture will exploit our expertise across composite manufacture and metal
machining. We are extremely proud to play our part in the creation of this
first in a new class of ‘Super Medium’ helicopters.”