GKN Aerospace is to work with Airbus Helicopters to develop composite technologies and electrical wiring interconnection systems for the H225M Caracal helicopter.
The collaboration follows the Dutch Ministry of Defense’s purchase of 12 H225M helicopters in November 2024 and was officially endorsed during a visit by the Dutch King and Queen to Airbus in Toulouse earlier this month.
GKN Fokker, GKN Aerospace’s business in the Netherlands, will advance the development of electrical wiring interconnection systems (EWIS) and composite technology for the H225M. According to the companies, the work on these critical systems will create a foundation for broader European defense cooperation and autonomy.
The EWIS development work will focus on the design and manufacturing of electrical wiring systems that connect the helicopter’s avionics, power distribution, and control systems. The composite technology work will develop lightweight aerostructure manufacturing for the aircraft.
The H225M Caracal is a multi-role helicopter used for military transport, search and rescue, and combat operations. The aircraft features composite aerostructures and complex electrical systems.
The agreement builds on an MoU signed between Airbus Helicopters and GKN Fokker in 2023. That collaboration established industrial participation in areas including engineering, EWIS design and manufacturing, and aerostructures.
Airbus Helicopters and GKN Fokker maintain a long-standing partnership through their joint work on the NH90 programme as part of the NHIndustries consortium with Leonardo. The companies said the new MoU reaffirms their shared ambition to drive innovation and strengthen the aerospace industry in the Netherlands and Europe.
John Pritchard, president civil airframe at GKN Aerospace, said, “This MoU reflects the trust and shared vision between Airbus Helicopters and GKN Aerospace. Together, we are advancing aerospace technology and strengthening industrial cooperation in the Netherlands and Europe.”
