This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.

Embraer Deploys “Smart Planning” AI to Fortify Supply Chain Resilience

Embraer has officially launched “Smart Planning,” a proprietary Artificial Intelligence (AI) solution designed to optimize inventory management and enhance operational efficiency across its aircraft manufacturing supply chain. Developed in partnership with Brazilian AI firm Aquarela Analytics, the new tool leverages predictive modeling to anticipate material shortages and surpluses, aiming to insulate the manufacturer from the supply chain volatility that has challenged the aerospace sector in recent years.

According to the company’s announcement, the system is the result of a 10-month development cycle that analyzed over 2 terabytes of historical and operational data. By integrating this vast dataset, Embraer aims to reduce the risk of production stoppages and minimize financial waste associated with excess stock.

The Mechanics of Smart Planning

The “Smart Planning” tool functions as a data-driven platform that assists planning teams by forecasting inventory requirements based on production schedules and historical consumption patterns. Embraer stated that the system provides interactive dashboards for real-time visualization of stock levels, allowing for faster decision-making.

The development process combined Embraer’s internal Agile methodology with Aquarela’s proprietary Data Culture Methodology (DCM). This hybrid approach was designed to assess data maturity and ensure the AI models were built on a scalable foundation. Dimas Tomelin, Vice President of Strategy, Digital and Innovation at Embraer, emphasized the tool’s role in enhancing predictability.

“Smart Planning is the most up-to-date data tool developed and integrated to make Embraer’s processes more efficient… providing greater predictability in case of material shortages or surpluses.”

Dimas Tomelin, VP of Strategy, Digital and Innovation at Embraer

Aquarela Analytics, a Florianópolis-based company specializing in Industry 4.0 solutions, brought over 12 years of market experience to the project. Marcos Santos, CEO of Aquarela, noted the complexity of the initiative.

“It was a challenging project where, at each stage, we delved deeper and expanded the scope as the complexity and results were measured.”

Marcos Santos, CEO of Aquarela Analytics

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Strategic Supply Chain Implications

The introduction of Smart Planning represents a significant step in Embraer’s digital transformation strategy. By predicting shortages before they impact the assembly line, the manufacturer intends to maintain consistent production rates for its E-Jets and Praetor executive jets. Furthermore, the system is expected to improve cost efficiency by reducing “safety stock”, excess inventory held as a buffer, thereby releasing working capital and lowering storage costs.

The partnership also highlights Embraer’s commitment to the local technology ecosystem. Aquarela Analytics, an investee of Auren Energia and a recipient of the National Innovation Award from the National Confederation of Industry (CNI), represents the growing capability of Brazilian tech firms to support complex industrial operations.

AirPro News Analysis

While major aerospace competitors have also invested heavily in AI, Embraer’s approach appears distinct in its targeted scope. Industry data suggests that while Airbus utilizes platforms like “Atlas AI” and “Skywise” for broad global demand sensing, and Boeing leverages partnerships for procurement cost control, Embraer’s “Smart Planning” is a highly specific intervention.

We observe that rather than building a monolithic platform, Embraer has deployed an agile, problem-specific tool to address the immediate pain point of production inventory fluidity. This strategy aligns with the company’s need to remain nimble against larger competitors, ensuring that its manufacturing lines remain resilient despite global supply constraints.

Sources

• Embraer Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Jamco Corporation.

Jamco Corporation to Acquire Iacobucci HF Aerospace, Expanding Premium Cabin Offerings

On December 2, 2025, Jamco Corporation, a leading Japanese aircraft interiors manufacturers, announced that it has signed definitive agreements to acquire Iacobucci HF Aerospace S.p.A. (IHFA). The transaction, expected to close by the end of 2025, marks a significant step in Jamco’s strategy to become a dominant global platform for cabin interiors.

According to the official announcement, the acquisition is part of a broader “buy-and-build” strategy orchestrated by Bain Capital, which took Jamco private earlier this year. By integrating IHFA’s premium galley inserts, such as espresso makers and trash compactors, with Jamco’s existing galley structures, the company aims to provide a comprehensive “turnkey” solution for widebody aircraft operators.

Strategic Rationale: Creating a Turnkey Supplier

The acquisition is designed to create a vertically integrated supplier capable of competing with major aerospace conglomerates. Jamco is currently a market leader in galley structures, the physical kitchen units installed on aircraft. IHFA complements this as a leader in galley inserts, the appliances housed within those structures.

Combining these capabilities allows Jamco to offer airlines a single, pre-integrated product. This integration is expected to reduce complexity and weight, addressing key concerns for carriers. Furthermore, IHFA brings a strong portfolio of VVIP seats and high-end beverage makers, aligning with Jamco’s objective to capture the growing market-analysis for premium business and first-class cabins.

Expanding the Platform

This transaction follows Jamco’s recent acquisition of Aerospace Technologies Group (ATG) in September 2025, a supplier known for electric window shades. Together, these moves signal a clear intent by Bain Capital to build a “one-stop-shop” for premium cabin interiors, consolidating niche suppliers to build scale and negotiating power against aircraft manufacturers.

Leadership and Operational Structure

Following the closing of the deal, IHFA will continue to operate as an independent company. The leadership structure will see continuity, with Lucio Iacobucci remaining as CEO of IHFA. Kate Schaefer, the Executive Chair of Jamco, will oversee the strategic direction of the combined entity.

In a statement regarding the acquisition, Kate Schaefer highlighted the strategic fit of the two companies:

“Our acquisition of IHFA is highly strategic and accelerates our transformation of Jamco into the leading partner for widebody customers in cabin interiors. The availability of Jamco’s galleys with IHFA’s galley inserts… will create significant value.”

Lucio Iacobucci, CEO of IHFA, expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to expand their market reach:

“We believe that IHFA has always been the technology leader in galley inserts, but with the support of Jamco and Bain Capital, we can significantly expand our customer reach and manufacturing base.”

Financial Context and Market Position

Jamco Corporation, formerly listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, was taken private by Bain Capital in a deal valued at approximately ¥110 billion ($700 million) completed in July 2025. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025, Jamco reported revenue of ¥79.0 billion, a 23.4% year-over-year increase, driven by a recovery in international travel and increased widebody aircraft production.

IHFA, headquartered in Ferentino, Italy, is a niche leader in premium galley inserts. The company is estimated to generate approximately €21.7 million in revenue for 2024, marking a recovery from pandemic-era lows of roughly €11 million in 2020. The company employs approximately 125 people.

The sellers in this transaction include a vehicle managed by Lichtenberg Capital, which invested in IHFA in January 2023, alongside other minority investors. Stefan Hamm, Managing Director at Lichtenberg Capital, noted:

“Our investment in IHFA through the pandemic is a good example of Lichtenberg Capital’s ability to provide capital plus operational and strategic solutions… We are excited to see IHFA enter a new chapter of growth.”

AirPro News Analysis

This acquisition underscores a shift in Jamco’s strategy under Bain Capital ownership, moving from a conservative supplier role to an aggressive growth posture. By consolidating fragmented elements of the interiors supply chain, structures, inserts, and window shades, Jamco is positioning itself to capitalize on supply chain disruptions that have plagued larger OEMs.

The timing aligns with a resurgence in the widebody market. As long-haul travel returns to pre-pandemic levels, airlines are increasingly retrofitting fleets with premium amenities to differentiate their business class products. High-end dining and coffee options, enabled by IHFA’s technology, are central to this competitive landscape.

Sources

• Jamco Corporation

This article is based on an official press release from Precision Aerospace & Defense Group, Inc. and FACT II Acquisition Corp.

Precision Aerospace & Defense Group to Go Public in $320 Million SPAC Merger

Precision Aerospace & Defense Group, Inc. (PADG), a Kansas-based holding company focused on aerospace engineering and manufacturing, has announced a definitive business combination agreement with FACT II Acquisition Corp. (NASDAQ: FACT). According to the official press release issued on December 1, 2025, the transaction values the combined enterprise at approximately $320 million.

Upon closing, which is expected in the first half of 2026, the combined company will operate under the name Precision Aerospace & Defense Group, Inc. and is expected to trade on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the ticker symbol “PAD” for common stock and “PADWW” for warrants.

The deal represents a significant step for PADG, which operates as a vertically integrated provider of mission-critical solutions for the aerospace, defense, and space sectors. The company aims to utilize the proceeds from the transaction to accelerate product development, invest in advanced equipment, and fund further acquisitions within a fragmented supply chain.

Transaction Overview and Capital Structure

The merger is structured as a business combination with FACT II Acquisition Corp., a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC). As outlined in the announcement, the deal implies an enterprise value of $320 million for PADG. To support the company’s growth strategy, the transaction includes a potential $80 million credit facility and an equity financing arrangement with BC Partners.

PADG’s current management team, led by CEO Brent Borden, will continue to lead the combined entity. The capital injection is intended to provide the “dry powder” necessary for PADG to execute its “roll-up” strategy, acquiring smaller, specialized aerospace shops to build a consolidated Tier 1 supplier network.

Leadership and Governance

The leadership team brings significant industry and military experience to the public markets:

• Brent Borden (CEO): A former US Army Infantry Officer and Strategic Programs Development Leader at the Kansas City National Security Campus.
• Joe Thiewes (CFO): Formerly CFO of Aerodyn Engineering, with a background in manufacturing finance at GE and Parker Hannifin.
• Doug Melvin: Founder of Aerofab NDT, who joined the leadership team following PADG’s acquisition of his company.

Company Profile: A Vertically Integrated Platform

Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, PADG was founded in 2016 and has grown primarily through strategic acquisitions. The company distinguishes itself by integrating specialized capabilities across three primary divisions.

Note on Corporate Identity: PADG (Overland Park, KS) is a distinct entity and should not be confused with Precision Aerospace Corp (Grand Rapids, MI), Precision Aviation Group (Atlanta, GA), or Precision Aerospace LLC (Phoenix, AZ).

Operational Divisions

According to the provided research data, PADG operates through the following key segments:

• Engineering & Sustainment: This division focuses on reverse engineering and Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) to extend the lifecycle of legacy military systems. A key subsidiary here is Aerodyn Engineering (Indianapolis, IN), known for turbine innovation and high-performance testing.
• Precision Manufacturing: Utilizing advanced CNC machining, this division produces complex components for aerospace and nuclear applications. It includes V&M Precision Machining and Grinding (Brea, CA), an AS9100-certified facility.
• Advanced Non-Destructive Testing (NDT): This segment ensures the safety of high-performance parts. It was bolstered by the early 2024 acquisition of Aerofab NDT (Kent, WA), a specialist in custom NDT probes and transducers.

Strategic Rationale and Market Context

The decision to go public via a SPAC merger comes at a time of increased focus on defense modernization and supply chain resilience. Major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are increasingly seeking robust, vertically integrated suppliers to replace fragmented networks of smaller machine shops.

PADG’s strategy aligns with these trends by positioning itself as a consolidated partner capable of handling complex manufacturing and sustainment tasks. Additionally, the company is targeting the “New Space” economy, where rapid prototyping and high-precision manufacturing are in high demand.

AirPro News Analysis

While the SPAC market has cooled significantly since the boom of 2020–2021, defense and aerospace remain resilient sectors due to geopolitical instability and guaranteed government spending. PADG’s focus on “sustainment”, keeping older military aircraft flying, provides a steady revenue baseline that may appeal to investors wary of purely speculative growth stories.

However, the success of this “roll-up” strategy relies heavily on integration. Merging distinct corporate cultures, from a California machine shop to a Washington NDT lab, presents operational challenges. Investors will likely scrutinize the company’s S-4 filing, once available, to verify historical revenue performance and the efficacy of past integrations.

Sources

Sources: GlobeNewswire (Press Release), PADG Official Website