MRO & Manufacturing
Eaton Invests $18.5M in NY Aerospace Facility Expansion
Eaton expands Orchard Park facility, creating 77 jobs and enhancing defense aerospace production capacity with sustainability initiatives.
In a significant step toward strengthening its aerospace manufacturing capabilities, Eaton Corporation has announced an $18.5 million expansion of its Orchard Park facility in New York. This move is not only a response to the growing demand from defense, commercial aerospace, and space sectors but also a strategic investment in the region’s economic and technological future.
The expansion adds 50,000 square feet of operational space and creates 77 skilled manufacturing jobs. It comes at a time when the aerospace industry is experiencing a resurgence driven by increased defense spending and technological innovation. Eaton’s decision to invest in Orchard Park underscores its commitment to meeting these evolving demands while reinforcing its position as a leader in intelligent power management.
With a robust history of strategic acquisitions and a clear focus on electrification and digitalization, Eaton is aligning its manufacturing infrastructure to serve long-term national security objectives and commercial needs. The Orchard Park expansion is a microcosm of this broader corporate vision.
The expansion at Orchard Park involves the addition of 50,000 square feet to the existing facility, which currently employs over 450 people. This new space will consolidate key logistics functions—shipping, receiving, warehousing, and stocking—under one roof, enhancing production efficiency and reducing logistical costs by an estimated 15–20% based on industry benchmarks.
According to filings with the Amherst Industrial Development Agency, the total project cost may reach $21.6 million, including $1.4 million for new manufacturing equipment and $1.2 million for infrastructure improvements. This suggests that Eaton is planning not only for immediate capacity increases but also for long-term operational resilience.
The consolidation of operations is expected to streamline production timelines and reduce internal bottlenecks—critical improvements as Eaton ramps up its aerospace output to meet growing demand from both military and commercial clients.
“Our investment in Orchard Park will ensure the site can serve defense, space and commercial aerospace customers well into the future.” The expansion will create 77 new skilled manufacturing jobs, bringing the total workforce at the Orchard Park facility to over 530 employees. With an average annual salary of $85,650, the new positions represent a $6.6 million annual injection into the local economy.
Beyond direct employment, the project is expected to generate 617 indirect jobs across supply chain and service sectors. Over the next decade, these spillover effects could contribute an additional $958 million in regional payrolls, reinforcing the project’s long-term economic significance. New York State Representative Nick Langworthy praised the expansion, stating it would “create crucial jobs for the region” and “massively increase production capacity.” Such endorsements highlight the alignment between corporate and public sector interests in advancing national and regional economic goals.
A key motivation behind the expansion is the increasing demand for advanced actuation systems—components that control mechanical movement in aircraft. Eaton’s Orchard Park site currently produces actuation systems for the U.S. Air Force. The expansion will enable the facility to begin manufacturing systems for the U.S. Navy as well, particularly for carrier-based aircraft.
This development aligns with the Navy’s $12.3 billion FY2025 budget for aircraft procurement, which prioritizes next-generation systems for platforms like the F/A-18 Super Hornet. The ability to serve both Air Force and Navy clients enhances Eaton’s strategic positioning in the defense sector.
These systems are mission-critical, and their production requires rigorous testing and certification. Eaton’s investment in this area suggests a long-term commitment to maintaining high standards and meeting evolving defense requirements.
The global aerospace parts manufacturing market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6%, reaching $1.53 trillion by 2032. This growth is fueled by increased defense spending and a rebound in commercial aviation, which is expected to surpass pre-pandemic passenger traffic levels by 2026.
Military applications currently account for 48% of this growth. The U.S. Department of Defense alone has allocated $145 billion for aircraft and related systems in 2025. Eaton’s expansion is well-timed to meet this rising demand, particularly in mission-critical technologies like actuation systems and oxygen delivery mechanisms.
Commercial aerospace is also experiencing renewed interest, with airlines investing in fleet modernization and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. Eaton’s diversified product offerings position it to serve both ends of the market effectively.
The global market for aerospace actuators is valued at $47.2 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $80.8 billion by 2033. Eaton’s focus on electric actuators, which currently hold a 42% market share, aligns with broader Industry 4.0 trends such as IoT integration and predictive maintenance capabilities. Additionally, Eaton is leveraging additive manufacturing (3D printing) to reduce component weight by 30–50% and cut production costs by up to 25%. This approach has already been implemented in other facilities like the one in Nacogdoches, Texas, and may extend to Orchard Park as part of its modernization strategy.
These innovations not only improve efficiency but also enhance the performance and reliability of aerospace systems, making Eaton a preferred partner for both defense and commercial clients.
As part of a broader $500 million North American manufacturing expansion, Eaton is emphasizing sustainability through grid modernization and renewable energy integration. The Orchard Park project contributes to these goals by consolidating operations to optimize energy use, potentially reducing the facility’s carbon footprint by 12%.
This aligns with industry-wide shifts toward sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and electric propulsion systems. Eaton’s commitment to environmental stewardship is not just a corporate responsibility but also a strategic differentiator in a market increasingly focused on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) metrics.
By integrating sustainability into its core operations, Eaton is preparing for a future where environmental performance is as critical as technological innovation.
Eaton’s expansion of the Orchard Park facility is more than a capital investment—it’s a strategic move to secure its role in the evolving aerospace landscape. By increasing production capacity, creating high-paying jobs, and embracing advanced manufacturing technologies, Eaton is setting a high bar for operational excellence and innovation.
As the aerospace industry continues to grow and diversify, Eaton’s proactive approach ensures it remains at the forefront of mission-critical system development. The Orchard Park project not only reinforces its market position but also serves as a model for future investments in intelligent, sustainable manufacturing.
What is the purpose of Eaton’s Orchard Park expansion? How many jobs will the expansion create? What technologies will be produced at the expanded facility? How does the expansion align with Eaton’s sustainability goals? Sources: BusinessWire
Eaton’s $18.5M Expansion in Orchard Park: A Strategic Move in Aerospace Manufacturing
Strategic Expansion Details and Economic Impact
Facility Enhancements and Operational Consolidation
— Kevin McKeown, SVP, Eaton Aerospace Group
Job Creation and Regional Economic Development
Defense Applications and Technological Upgrades
Industry Trends and Eaton’s Strategic Positioning
Aerospace Market Growth and Demand Drivers
Technological Innovation in Actuation Systems
Sustainability and Electrification Goals
Conclusion: A Blueprint for Future Aerospace Excellence
FAQ
To increase manufacturing capacity for aerospace systems, especially actuation technologies, and to support growing demand from defense and commercial sectors.
The project will create 77 new skilled manufacturing jobs, raising the total workforce at the facility to over 530.
The facility will manufacture mission-ready aerospace technologies, including oxygen systems and actuation mechanisms for the U.S. Air Force and Navy.
By consolidating operations and optimizing energy use, the expansion is expected to reduce the facility’s carbon footprint by approximately 12%.
Photo Credit: Eaton
MRO & Manufacturing
Mecadaq Group Acquires Echeverria and Lopez to Expand Aerospace Capabilities
Mecadaq Group acquires Echeverria and Lopez in France to diversify aerospace supply chain services and target €150M revenue by 2030.
This article is based on an official press release from Mecadaq Group.
Mecadaq Group, a specialist in high-precision aerospace manufacturing with operations in France and the United States, has announced the acquisitions of two strategic companies: Echeverria and Lopez. The announcement, made on January 21, 2026, marks the first major expansion for the group since the investment firm CAPZA became its majority shareholder in July 2025.
According to the company’s statement, these acquisitions are part of an aggressive “buy-and-build” strategy designed to consolidate the fragmented aerospace supply chain. By integrating these new entities, Mecadaq aims to diversify its capabilities beyond airframe manufacturing into interiors and engine maintenance. The group has set a financial target to achieve over €150 million in annual revenue by 2030.
The two acquired companies bring distinct specializations that broaden Mecadaq’s service portfolio and strengthen its local footprint in southwest France.
Located in Hendaye, France, Echeverria specializes in the precision machining and assembly of complex components for aircraft seats and cabins. This acquisition opens a new vertical for Mecadaq in the “Interiors” market. The company notes that Echeverria is a key supplier for Airbus Atlantic, providing structures for pilot seats and cabin frameworks.
The second acquisition, Lopez, is based in Tarnos, France, near Mecadaq’s headquarters. Lopez focuses on Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services for helicopter engines. Their capabilities include grinding, lapping, hydraulic testing, and compliance restoration for critical parts. According to Mecadaq, this move establishes a dedicated division for engine maintenance and reinforces the group’s relationship with Safran Helicopter Engines, a long-standing partner of Lopez.
This expansion is fueled by Mecadaq’s new financial structure following the entry of CAPZA as the majority shareholder in mid-2025. The investment firm’s Flex Equity strategy replaced the previous backer, Activa Capital. Additionally, Mecadaq President Julien Dubecq and his management team have reinvested in the transaction, signaling a long-term commitment to the group’s growth.
“The aerospace supply chain remains highly fragmented. Mecadaq’s strategy is to act as a consolidator, acquiring smaller, specialized firms to increase ‘share of wallet’ with major OEMs.”
, Summary of Mecadaq Group Strategy
The group’s ambition is to triple its size relative to its 2018-2020 baseline. To reach the €150 million revenue target by 2030, Mecadaq plans to pursue a mix of organic growth and further acquisitions across Europe and the United States.
The acquisition of Echeverria and Lopez highlights a critical trend in the aerospace sector: the consolidation of Tier 2 and Tier 3 suppliers. As major OEMs like Airbus and Boeing ramp up production rates, smaller suppliers often face pressure to scale operations and maintain financial resilience. By absorbing specialized firms, mid-sized groups like Mecadaq can offer a more robust, multi-service value proposition,ranging from manufacturing to maintenance,thereby securing their positions as critical partners in the global supply chain.
Headquartered in Tarnos, France, Mecadaq Group employs approximately 350 people (prior to these recent acquisitions). The company specializes in high-precision machining, including turning, milling, and gear shaping, for the aerospace and defense sectors.
Mecadaq operates a transatlantic model to serve major industrial hubs:
The company’s client roster includes major industry players such as Airbus, Boeing, Dassault Aviation, Safran, Thales, and Spirit AeroSystems. Mecadaq produces parts for key commercial programs like the A320, B737, A350, and B787, as well as the Rafale defense program.
Mecadaq Group Acquires Echeverria and Lopez to Accelerate Aerospace Supply Chain Consolidation
Strategic Acquisitions: Echeverria and Lopez
Echeverria: Expanding into Interiors
Lopez: Establishing an MRO Division
Financial Backing and Long-Term Strategy
AirPro News Analysis
Company Profile and Global Footprint
Sources
Photo Credit: Mecadaq Group
MRO & Manufacturing
Deutsche Aircraft Chooses Comtronic for D328eco Overhead Panels
Deutsche Aircraft selects Comtronic GmbH to supply advanced overhead panels for the D328eco cockpit, targeting entry into service in late 2027.
This article is based on an official press release from Deutsche Aircraft.
Deutsche Aircraft has officially announced the selection of Comtronic GmbH to supply the complete overhead panel for the D328eco cockpit. According to the company’s press release, this partnership marks a significant step in the development of the 40-seat regional turboprop, ensuring that the flight deck meets modern ergonomic and technical standards.
The agreement tasks Comtronic, a subsidiary of the French industrial group MAFELEC Team, with delivering a “turnkey” solution. This includes the design and manufacturing of illuminated panels, sub-panels, and custom control units tailored specifically for the D328eco’s avionics suite. The selection underscores Deutsche Aircraft’s focus on securing a robust, regional supply chain for its flagship program, which targets entry into service in late 2027.
Under the terms of the agreement, Comtronic GmbH will provide a comprehensive suite of cockpit interface solutions. Based in Schönau, Germany, the supplier brings nearly 50 years of aerospace experience to the project. The scope of supply involves advanced optical and photometric engineering designed to ensure uniform illumination and anti-glare performance, critical factors for pilot situational awareness.
The overhead panel is a vital component of the cockpit, housing controls for essential systems such as fuel, electrical power, and bleed air. Deutsche Aircraft notes that the new panels will be optimized for both day and night readability, integrating Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) compatibility where necessary.
Gilles Heinrich, President of the MAFELEC Team, commented on the collaboration in the official release:
“This contract reflects the strong alignment between our organizations and our shared commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable solutions for the aerospace industry.” The components will undergo rigorous qualification testing to meet aerospace standards, including RTCA/DO-160 and MIL-STD requirements, ensuring they can withstand the vibration and temperature extremes inherent in regional flight operations.
The D328eco is an advanced modernization of the legacy Dornier 328 platform. While it retains the proven aerodynamic characteristics of its predecessor, the new aircraft features a fuselage stretched by approximately two meters to accommodate 40 passengers. A key element of this modernization is the transition to a fully digital glass cockpit featuring the Garmin G5000 avionics suite. Comtronic’s contribution is essential to this digital transition. While the avionics suite handles flight data and navigation, the overhead panel remains the physical interface for systems management. By integrating modern “Human-Machine Interface” (HMI) technology, the new panel is designed to reduce pilot cognitive load. This aligns with the aircraft’s broader operational goals, which include future single-pilot capability, although initial certification is planned for two pilots.
Strategic Supply Chain Localization Bridging Legacy and Digital The D328eco is engineered to be a leader in sustainability for the regional sector. Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-S engines, the aircraft is designed to operate on 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The efficiency of these engines, combined with the advanced cockpit systems, aims to lower operating costs and emissions compared to older regional jets and turboprops.
Comtronic’s panels contribute to this ecosystem by adhering to strict weight and power consumption standards, which are critical for maximizing the efficiency of the aircraft. The supplier’s ability to deliver NVIS-compatible lighting also suggests that Deutsche Aircraft is positioning the D328eco for versatility, potentially serving in special mission roles (such as search and rescue) in addition to commercial passenger transport.
What is the D328eco? Who is Comtronic GmbH? When will the D328eco enter service? Why is the overhead panel important?
Deutsche Aircraft Selects Comtronic GmbH for D328eco Overhead Panels
Scope of the Partnership
Modernizing the D328 Platform
AirPro News Analysis
The selection of Comtronic GmbH highlights a strategic move by Deutsche Aircraft to insulate the D328eco program from global supply-chain volatility. By choosing a German supplier located in Schönau, the manufacturer shortens logistics chains and ensures closer engineering collaboration. In an era where aerospace production is frequently bottlenecked by parts shortages, relying on established regional partners like Comtronic, backed by the larger MAFELEC Team, reduces risk for the 2027 delivery timeline.
Integrating a physical overhead panel with a digital Garmin G5000 suite represents a specific engineering challenge: blending tactile reliability with digital sophistication. We observe that this partnership emphasizes the industry’s focus on “tactile ergonomics.” Even in glass cockpits, pilots rely on physical switches for critical systems to build muscle memory. Comtronic’s expertise in high-uniformity lighting ensures that these physical controls remain distinct and readable, preventing mode confusion during complex operations.
Technical Specifications and Sustainability
Frequently Asked Questions
The D328eco is a 40-seat regional turboprop developed by Deutsche Aircraft. It is a modernized, sustainable version of the Dornier 328, featuring new engines, a stretched fuselage, and a digital cockpit.
Comtronic GmbH is a German aerospace supplier based in Schönau and a member of the French MAFELEC Team. They specialize in Human-Machine Interface (HMI) solutions, including illuminated panels and control units.
Deutsche Aircraft targets late 2027 for the D328eco’s entry into service (EIS).
The overhead panel contains physical controls for critical aircraft systems like fuel, hydraulics, and power. Its design impacts pilot workload, safety, and ease of operation, particularly in low-light or high-stress conditions.
Sources
Photo Credit: Deutsche Aircraft
MRO & Manufacturing
Jamco Acquires Schüschke to Expand Airbus Market Presence
Jamco Corporation acquires German firm Schüschke to diversify from Boeing and strengthen its Airbus supply chain position by February 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Jamco Corporation.
On January 19, 2026, Jamco Corporation, a leading Japanese aircraft interiors manufacturer, announced its Acquisitions of Schüschke GmbH & Co. KG, a German specialist in solid-surface washbasins and lavatory components. The transaction, expected to close in February 2026, marks a significant strategic pivot for Jamco as it seeks to diversify its customer base beyond its traditional stronghold with Boeing.
According to the official announcement, the acquisition facilitates Jamco’s expansion into the Airbus supply chain, where Schüschke holds a dominant position. The deal is the latest in a series of aggressive moves by Jamco’s parent company, Bain Capital, which took the Japanese manufacturer private in 2025. By integrating Schüschke’s specialized manufacturing capabilities, Jamco aims to solidify its status as a global platform for cabin interiors.
The acquisition sees the exit of Silver Investment Partners (SIP), which has held Schüschke since 2015. While financial terms were not disclosed, the deal involves high-profile advisory teams, including Seabury Securities and CMS for Jamco, and Steen Associates for the sellers.
The primary driver behind this acquisition appears to be the immediate diversification of OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturer) exposure. Jamco has historically been deeply aligned with Boeing, currently holding status as the sole supplier of lavatories for all Boeing wide-body aircraft, including the 787, 777, and 777X programs. Industry data indicates Jamco holds approximately 50% of the global market share in lavatories and 40% in galleys.
In contrast, Schüschke is heavily integrated into the Airbus ecosystem. The German manufacturer supplies washbasins and interior components for the A320, A330, A350, and A380 families. According to the transaction report, Schüschke commands an 83% market share in new-build programs for Airbus. By acquiring Schüschke, Jamco instantly reduces its reliance on Boeing’s production cycles and gains a foothold in the high-volume Airbus narrow-body market.
Beyond market access, the deal centers on material science. Schüschke is the proprietor of Varicor®, a solid-surface material prized for being lightweight, fire-retardant, and highly customizable. Integrating this technology into Jamco’s broader product portfolio allows for the development of lighter, more durable lavatory and galley solutions, a critical requirement for Airlines focused on reducing fuel burn and maintenance costs.
This transaction highlights the rapid consolidation strategy employed by Bain Capital since it acquired Jamco in mid-2025. The private equity firm appears to be building a comprehensive “super-supplier” in the interiors sector capable of weathering Supply-Chain volatility while meeting the ramping production rates of major airframers. The Schüschke deal represents the third major acquisition for the platform in just six months:
This pattern suggests a deliberate effort to aggregate specialized Tier-2 suppliers into a robust Tier-1 entity with global reach and a diversified product catalog.
The consolidation of the aerospace supply chain is accelerating, driven by the need for resilience. For decades, the interiors market was fragmented, with numerous “Hidden Champions” like Schüschke dominating specific niches. However, the post-pandemic ramp-up has exposed the fragility of smaller suppliers. By rolling these companies up under the Jamco umbrella, Bain Capital is creating an entity with the balance sheet and operational scale to guarantee delivery to Airbus and Boeing.
Furthermore, the “premiumization” of air travel is driving demand for bespoke interiors. Schüschke’s reputation for high-finish, customizable washbasins aligns perfectly with Jamco’s push into premium business class seating. We anticipate that Jamco will leverage Schüschke’s design capabilities to offer more cohesive, high-end lavatory and galley packages to premium carriers, potentially bundling these with their “Venture” line of business class seats.
The complexity of cross-border M&A in the aerospace sector requires significant legal and financial oversight. The following advisors were listed in the transaction details:
When will the deal close? What is Schüschke’s main product? Who owned Schüschke previously? Does this affect Jamco’s relationship with Boeing?
Jamco Corporation Acquires Schüschke to Balance Boeing–Airbus Portfolio
Strategic Rationale: Bridging the OEM Divide
Technology and Product Synergies
Bain Capital’s “Buy-and-Build” Strategy
AirPro News Analysis
Transaction Advisors
Frequently Asked Questions
The transaction is expected to close in February 2026, subject to customary regulatory approvals.
Schüschke specializes in washbasins and lavatory fittings made from Varicor®, a proprietary solid-surface material known for its durability and lightweight properties.
The company was owned by Silver Investment Partners (SIP), an independent equity finance investor, which acquired the firm in December 2015.
There is no indication that this negatively impacts Jamco’s standing with Boeing. Rather, it balances the company’s portfolio, reducing risk by ensuring strong revenue streams from both major airframers.
Sources
Photo Credit: Jamco
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