Spirit AeroSystems’ Strategic Divestiture to Malaysian Aerospace Leader CTRM: A Comprehensive Analysis of the $95.2 Million Subang Facility Acquisition

The aerospace industry stands at a crossroads, shaped by rapid recovery from pandemic disruptions, supply chain realignments, and major strategic transactions. Spirit AeroSystems Holdings Inc.’s definitive agreement to sell its Subang, Malaysia facility to Composites Technology Research Malaysia (CTRM) for $95.2 million is a pivotal development in this landscape. Set for completion in the fourth quarter of 2025, the deal is not only a key milestone in Spirit’s broader acquisition by Boeing but also a significant boost to Malaysia’s ambitions as a regional aerospace manufacturing hub. For CTRM, the acquisition marks a leap forward in its role as a supplier to both Airbus and Boeing, reinforcing Malaysia’s place in the global aerospace supply chain.

This article examines the background, financials, strategic implications, and broader industry context of the transaction. We draw on official releases, financial disclosures, and expert commentary to provide a neutral, fact-based analysis of the deal and its significance for all stakeholders.

As the aerospace sector faces ongoing challenges and opportunities, the Spirit-CTRM transaction offers a window into the evolving strategies of Manufacturers and the growing importance of Southeast Asia in the global industry.

Background and Historical Context

Spirit AeroSystems’ Journey and Current Challenges

Spirit AeroSystems is among the world’s largest independent manufacturers of aerostructures for commercial, defense, and business aircraft. Headquartered in Wichita, Kansas, Spirit operates globally, with facilities in the US, UK, France, Malaysia, and Morocco. Its core products include fuselages, wings, pylons, and nacelles for leading aircraft programs.

Despite its scale, Spirit has faced significant financial headwinds in recent years. In Q2 2025, the company reported a net loss of $631 million, or $5.36 per share, driven by forward losses on unprofitable programs and excess manufacturing capacity charges. For 2024, losses totaled approximately $1.5 billion, exacerbated by disruptions such as Boeing’s worker strike and ongoing supply chain issues.

Operational inefficiencies and cost overruns have hit Spirit’s major programs, including the Airbus A220, A350, and Boeing 787. Nonetheless, the company maintains a substantial $51 billion backlog, with Deliveries for 430 aircraft in Q2 2025, including 152 Boeing 737s, signaling ongoing demand for its capabilities.

“Spirit AeroSystems continues to play a vital role in global aircraft manufacturing, but recent financial pressures have necessitated strategic divestitures and realignment.”

CTRM’s Evolution as a Malaysian Aerospace Pioneer

CTRM was established in 1990 under the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, with a mission to develop Malaysia’s advanced composites and aerospace sectors. Initially focused on producing the Eagle 150B light aircraft, CTRM has evolved into a globally integrated supplier of composite aerostructures for both commercial and military aircraft.

In 2013, ownership transferred to DRB-HICOM, a major Malaysian conglomerate, providing CTRM with increased resources and strategic direction. Today, CTRM is recognized as a Tier 2 supplier, producing composite subassemblies and components for Tier 1 suppliers serving Airbus, Boeing, and other OEMs.

CTRM’s expertise extends beyond aerospace, with capabilities in marine, automotive, and other advanced composite applications, underpinned by a strong focus on engineering, testing, and supplier management.

Malaysia’s Aerospace Industry Strategic Vision

Malaysia has positioned aerospace as a high-value, catalytic industry under its long-term development plans. The Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint 2030 targets annual revenue of RM55.2 billion and over 32,000 high-income jobs by 2030, aiming to make Malaysia Southeast Asia’s leading aerospace nation.

Key areas of focus include maintenance, repair, and operations (MRO), aero-manufacturing, system integration, and engineering services. The country’s strategic location in the Asia-Pacific region, combined with world-class infrastructure and business-friendly policies, has attracted significant investment and fostered talent development.

Facilities such as the KLIA Aeropolis and Subang Aerotech Park, along with supportive government initiatives, have made Malaysia an increasingly attractive base for international aerospace operations.

The Transaction Details and Key Facts

Financial Structure and Deal Parameters

The agreement between Spirit AeroSystems and CTRM covers the sale of Spirit’s Subang, Malaysia facility and businesses for $95.2 million in cash, to be funded by bank borrowings. This transaction follows Spirit’s merger agreement with Boeing and planned divestitures aligned with Airbus interests.

Spirit Malaysia posted a profit after tax of RM70.1 million and net assets of RM770.5 million for 2024, with revenue exceeding RM1 billion. The deal is expected to close in Q4 2025, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.

This divestiture is a key part of Spirit’s broader restructuring, providing liquidity and focusing resources on core operations to be integrated with Boeing.

Facility Operations and Capabilities

The Subang facility spans 45 acres, with 400,000 square feet of manufacturing space and over 1,000 employees. It is located in the Malaysian International Aerospace Centre, offering proximity to other aerospace firms and shared infrastructure.

The plant provides aerostructures assembly, engineering services, and supply chain management for major Airbus and Boeing programs, including the A220, A320/A321, A350, B737, and B787. Its integrated supply chain benefits from regional sourcing, skilled labor, and scalable production capacity.

By acquiring this facility, CTRM significantly expands its manufacturing footprint and program participation, enhancing its ability to serve global customers.

Program Integration and Customer Relationships

Post-acquisition, CTRM will supply components for Airbus A220, A320, A350, and Boeing 737, 787 programs. This positions CTRM as a vital supplier to both major OEMs, leveraging existing relationships and expanding its global reach.

Spirit Malaysia already contributes over half of CTRM’s consolidated revenue, providing a strong foundation for integration and ongoing collaboration. The acquisition allows CTRM to scale up, improve efficiency, and deepen its presence in the global aerospace supply chain.

With expanded capabilities, CTRM is well-placed to pursue additional business from Airbus, Boeing, and other OEMs, reinforcing Malaysia’s strategic role in international aerospace manufacturing.

Strategic Implications and Industry Context

Spirit AeroSystems’ Broader Restructuring Strategy

The sale of the Malaysian operation is part of Spirit’s comprehensive divestiture plan, which also includes facility sales in Scotland and Northern Ireland as the company prepares for integration with Boeing. Boeing’s acquisition of Spirit, valued at $4.7 billion in equity and $8.3 billion enterprise-wide, is expected to close by mid-to-late 2025.

Spirit’s restructuring addresses liquidity needs and regulatory concerns while ensuring continuity for Airbus and Boeing programs. The company’s management has acknowledged “substantial doubt” about its ability to continue as a going concern, making these divestitures critical for stabilization and future growth.

Airbus is also set to acquire certain Spirit assets related to its own programs, ensuring competitive supply options and compliance with antitrust requirements.

Boeing’s Vertical Integration Strategy

Boeing’s acquisition of Spirit AeroSystems marks a return to vertical integration, aiming to improve quality, safety, and supply chain coordination. Recent production and quality issues, including the 2024 Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9 incident, have underscored the need for tighter control over key suppliers.

By reintegrating Spirit, Boeing seeks to align production systems, workforce incentives, and safety protocols, addressing lessons learned from previous outsourcing strategies. This move reflects broader industry trends toward consolidation and integrated supply chains.

The transaction structure, with CTRM acquiring the Subang facility and Airbus taking over other Spirit assets, aims to balance competition and supply chain resilience for both major OEMs.

“By reintegrating Spirit, we can fully align our commercial production systems, including our Safety and Quality Management Systems, and our workforce to the same priorities, incentives and outcomes, centered on safety and quality.” – Dave Calhoun, President and CEO, Boeing

Malaysia’s Regional Aerospace Hub Positioning

The CTRM acquisition supports Malaysia’s goal of becoming Southeast Asia’s top aerospace hub, as outlined in the New Industrial Master Plan 2030. The sector has attracted RM26 billion in investments and created over 18,000 jobs, with the government targeting a 50% share of the regional MRO market and 5% of the global market by 2030.

CTRM’s expanded capabilities will contribute to these ambitions, reinforcing its status as one of Airbus’s top five global suppliers for composite aerostructures and enhancing Malaysia’s competitiveness in the international aerospace market.

The deal also demonstrates Malaysia’s ability to attract and integrate significant international aerospace investments, supporting national economic and technology development objectives.

Financial Analysis and Performance Metrics

CTRM’s Financial Position and Growth Trajectory

CTRM has demonstrated steady revenue growth, nearing the RM1 billion mark in recent years and maintaining an order book of RM11.9 billion, providing operational visibility through 2035. Approximately 70% of CTRM’s sales are linked to Airbus programs, with the remainder coming from Boeing and other sources.

Investment in capacity expansion, including a RM93.4 million facility upgrade, positions CTRM to absorb and integrate Spirit Malaysia’s operations effectively. The acquisition will significantly increase CTRM’s scale and ability to compete for larger, more complex contracts.

This financial strength and growth trajectory underpin CTRM’s ability to fund and execute the acquisition, supported by its parent company, DRB-HICOM.

Spirit Malaysia’s Operational Performance

Spirit Malaysia has posted robust financial results, with a profit after tax of RM70.1 million and over RM1 billion in revenue for 2024. Net assets total RM770.5 million, including manufacturing equipment, facilities, and inventory.

The facility supplies key aerostructures for Airbus and Boeing programs, and its integration with CTRM is expected to proceed smoothly, given the existing strong commercial relationship and operational alignment.

The acquisition price of $95.2 million reflects a reasonable valuation based on Spirit Malaysia’s assets, revenue, and strategic importance within the global supply chain.

Industry Financial Performance Context

The aerospace supply chain has faced financial stress, with the sector’s Altman Z-score trailing other advanced manufacturing industries and a 9% decline in financial health from 2020 to 2023. Spirit’s losses reflect these broader challenges, but the industry is showing signs of recovery, with increased deliveries and strong demand growth in 2024–2025.

The timing of the transaction allows CTRM to acquire high-quality assets as the industry rebounds, potentially generating strong returns as global demand and asset valuations recover.

Malaysia’s competitive cost structure and strategic location further enhance the acquisition’s long-term value proposition for CTRM and DRB-HICOM.

Regulatory and Market Dynamics

Regulatory Approval Process and Requirements

The deal is subject to regulatory approvals in multiple jurisdictions, reflecting the international nature of the aerospace sector. The US Federal Trade Commission has requested additional information regarding the broader Boeing-Spirit transaction, contributing to the extended timeline for completion.

Malaysia’s regulatory environment is generally supportive of foreign investment and technology transfer, especially in strategic sectors like aerospace. The transaction structure is designed to address antitrust and competition concerns by ensuring continued supply options for both Airbus and Boeing.

Coordination of approvals and closing conditions is critical, given the interconnected nature of the Spirit-Boeing, Spirit-Airbus, and Spirit-CTRM transactions.

Antitrust and Competition Considerations

Aerospace is a highly concentrated industry, and major transactions face careful antitrust scrutiny. The Spirit-CTRM deal, by strengthening a capable regional supplier, is structured to enhance rather than diminish competition in the Malaysian and Southeast Asian markets.

By maintaining competitive supply options and avoiding excessive concentration, the transaction aligns with both regulatory requirements and industry best practices for supply chain resilience.

Malaysia’s competition policy supports deals that build national capabilities while sustaining healthy market dynamics.

International Trade and Investment Policy Implications

The transaction reflects a broader trend of regionalizing aerospace manufacturing to serve growing Asian markets and diversify supply chains. Malaysia’s policy framework, infrastructure, and skilled workforce make it an attractive destination for such Investments.

Compliance with export controls, technology transfer regulations, and international trade agreements will be essential as CTRM integrates Spirit Malaysia’s operations and expands its global customer base.

Malaysia’s participation in regional and global economic partnerships further supports the growth and integration of its aerospace sector.

Future Outlook and Implications

Strategic Growth Opportunities for CTRM

With the acquisition, CTRM will significantly expand its scale, capabilities, and program participation. This positions the company to compete for larger contracts, pursue new markets, and deepen relationships with both Airbus and Boeing.

The integration of advanced manufacturing technologies and expanded engineering resources will support innovation and diversification into adjacent sectors such as marine and automotive composites.

CTRM’s enhanced role aligns with the Asia-Pacific region’s projected aircraft demand, providing a platform for sustained growth as regional and global aerospace markets expand.

Malaysia’s Aerospace Industry Development Trajectory

The deal is a milestone for Malaysia’s aerospace ambitions, validating its strategy of building globally competitive local companies and attracting international investment. It contributes to national targets for revenue, employment, and technology advancement.

As Malaysia pursues its goal of becoming a leading MRO and manufacturing hub, the CTRM-Spirit transaction demonstrates the country’s ability to execute complex, high-value deals and integrate world-class operations into its industrial ecosystem.

Industry Consolidation and Supply Chain Evolution

The transaction is emblematic of broader consolidation trends in aerospace, as OEMs and suppliers seek greater control, efficiency, and resilience. Well-executed consolidation can enhance supply chain performance, provided it maintains competitive options and invests in supplier capabilities.

CTRM’s expanded capacity and expertise position it as a preferred partner for future supply chain strategies, supporting both global OEMs and regional market needs.

Going forward, the balance between global integration and regional manufacturing will shape the competitive dynamics of the aerospace industry, with Malaysia and CTRM playing increasingly prominent roles.

Conclusion

The Spirit AeroSystems-CTRM agreement for the Subang, Malaysia facility is a strategically significant transaction with wide-ranging implications. For Spirit, the divestiture provides needed liquidity and focus as it prepares for integration with Boeing. For CTRM and Malaysia, it marks a step change in capabilities, market position, and global relevance.

As aerospace manufacturers adapt to new market realities, the deal exemplifies how strategic consolidation and regional investment can strengthen supply chains, support national development, and drive industry innovation. The successful completion of the transaction will be a milestone for all parties and a case study in the evolving global aerospace landscape.

FAQ

Q: What is the value of the Spirit AeroSystems-CTRM deal?
A: The definitive agreement is valued at $95.2 million, to be paid in cash and funded by bank borrowings.

Q: When is the transaction expected to close?
A: The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and closing conditions.

Q: What are the strategic benefits for CTRM?
A: CTRM will expand its manufacturing footprint, gain access to major Airbus and Boeing programs, and strengthen its position as a top-tier aerospace supplier.

Q: How does this deal fit into Malaysia’s aerospace ambitions?
A: The acquisition supports Malaysia’s goal of becoming Southeast Asia’s leading aerospace hub, contributing to national targets for revenue, employment, and technology development.

Q: Will the facility’s employees be retained?
A: The facility employs over 1,000 people; continuity of operations and employment is a stated priority for both Spirit and CTRM.

Sources

• Spirit AeroSystems
• Business Times Malaysia
• MIDA
• CTRM
• DRB-HICOM