This article is based on an official press release from GKN Aerospace.

GKN Aerospace and Partners Complete MANTA Programme for Morphing Wing Technology

GKN Aerospace, leading a consortium of European manufacturers, has successfully completed the MANTA (MovAbles for Next generaTion Aircraft) programme. Funded under the Clean Sky 2 Joint Undertaking, now part of Clean Aviation, the project focused on maturing innovative control surface technologies designed to make future aircraft lighter, quieter, and more sustainable.

According to the official announcement from GKN Aerospace, the programme delivered four advanced technology demonstrators. These systems utilize “morphing” capabilities to optimize aerodynamics, moving away from traditional heavy mechanical joints. The project was developed in collaboration with the Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR), the German Aerospace Center (DLR), Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), and ASCO.

Advancing Sustainable Aviation

The primary goal of the MANTA programme was to develop technologies that contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation industry. By replacing conventional hinged systems with morphing structures, the consortium aims to reduce drag and structural weight, which are critical factors in lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

GKN Aerospace stated that the technologies were developed for major industry customers, including Airbus Aircraft, Dassault Aviation, and Saab. The completion of the programme marks a significant step toward integrating these systems into the next generation of high-aspect-ratio wings.

“The results show significant potential for weight reduction, fuel savings, noise reduction and smarter wing load management, key enablers for more sustainable high aspect ratio wings.”

— GKN Aerospace Statement

Four Key Technology Demonstrators

The consortium successfully matured four distinct technologies, ranging from proof-of-concept stages to validation in relevant environments. GKN Aerospace detailed the specific achievements for each demonstrator:

1. Winglet Morphing Tab

This concept focuses on drag reduction at the wingtip. Instead of traditional hinged surfaces, it uses flexible thermoplastic composite elements to change shape. According to GKN Aerospace, this technology offers a potential 5% weight saving and an 8% cost reduction compared to traditional systems.

2. Multi-Functional Flap Mechanism (MFFM)

Developed with significant input from ASCO, this mechanism combines the functions of a flap and an aileron into a single unit. It allows the wing chord to be varied, eliminating the need for separate ailerons. The consortium reported that this technology achieved Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 through full-scale testing.

3. FAMoUS Pressure Cell Actuator

The “Fluid Actuated Morphing Unit Structures” (FAMoUS) concept, developed by DLR, represents a novel approach to actuation. It utilizes a fluid-driven system to morph the trailing edge of the wing. GKN Aerospace confirmed this concept was validated at TRL 3, demonstrating a successful proof of concept.

4. Adaptive Air Inlet

This technology replaces traditional metal intake doors with an optimized morphing composite flap featuring variable thickness. The design aims to improve intake airflow quality and durability by reducing mechanical complexity.

AirPro News Analysis

The completion of the MANTA programme highlights a broader industry shift toward “biomimetic” or morphing designs. Traditional aircraft control surfaces rely on gaps and hinges that create aerodynamic turbulence and noise. By utilizing flexible composites and fluid actuation, OEMs can create seamless wing surfaces that adapt to flight conditions much like a bird’s wing.

While technologies like the FAMoUS actuator are still in early development (TRL 3), the advancement of the Multi-Functional Flap Mechanism to TRL 5 suggests that morphing structures are moving closer to industrial application. We anticipate that these innovations will play a crucial role in meeting the European Union’s Clean Aviation goals for 2030 and beyond.

Future Outlook

With the programme now concluded, the partners have defined clear pathways to higher Technology Readiness Levels. According to the release, future steps include fatigue testing, environmental validation, and the enhancement of sensor and actuation systems. The consortium plans to explore further integration opportunities with aircraft Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Sources

• GKN Aerospace LinkedIn Announcement