MRO & Manufacturing
CPI Aerostructures Secures Follow-On Orders from Collins Aerospace
CPI Aerostructures announced follow-on orders from Collins Aerospace for RF/EMI shielded enclosures, with deliveries through mid-2027.
This article is based on an official press release from CPI Aerostructures, Inc., supplemented by industry research and financial data.
On March 12, 2026, CPI Aerostructures, Inc. (NYSE American: CVU) announced the receipt of follow-on orders from Hamilton Sundstrand, a division of Collins Aerospace. According to the company’s official press release, the orders are for Radio Frequency/Electromagnetic Interference (RF/EMI) shielded enclosures, which are critical components designed to protect sensitive electronic equipment from external signal interference.
The manufacturing and fulfillment of these orders will be handled by Compac Development Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CPI Aero. The company noted in its announcement that deliveries for these specialized enclosures are scheduled to continue through mid-2027. While the specific financial terms and volume of the orders were not publicly disclosed in the release, the agreement underscores CPI Aero’s ongoing relationship with major Tier 1 aerospace and defense contractors.
This latest development adds to a series of recent contract wins for the Edgewood, New York-based manufacturer, which has been actively working to diversify its revenue streams and bolster its order backlog following programmatic shifts in the defense sector earlier in the decade.
The fulfillment of the Hamilton Sundstrand order highlights the specialized capabilities of Compac Development Corporation. Established in 1976 and operating under the CPI Aero umbrella, Compac focuses exclusively on RFI/EMI shielding solutions. According to industry research, the subsidiary maintains a catalog of over 500 standard “off-the-shelf” shielded enclosures, while also providing custom manufacturing services that scale from initial prototyping to full production runs.
In the official press release, CPI Aero’s leadership emphasized the strategic importance of this ongoing partnership. Dorith Hakim, CEO and President of CPI Aero, highlighted the company’s commitment to precision engineering and customer trust:
“CPI provides precision engineered Radio Frequency Enclosures for numerous customers across multiple markets. We are proud of the long-standing relationship with Collins Aerospace and the trust they place in CPI Aero to deliver high quality products in support of their business.”, Dorith Hakim, CEO & President, CPI Aerostructures
The recent influx of orders comes on the heels of a concerted financial recovery effort by CPI Aero. Based on the company’s Q3 2025 financial reports, CPI Aero faced profitability challenges early in 2025, including a reported net loss in the first quarter. This was primarily driven by a $2.1 million pre-tax loss associated with the termination and impending retirement of the A-10 Thunderbolt program, a legacy defense platform.
However, subsequent financial data indicates a strong rebound. By the end of Q3 2025, CPI Aero reported a trailing 12-month revenue of $71.6 million and a robust order backlog of $509 million. For that specific quarter, the company achieved a gross profit margin of 22.3% and a net income of $1.1 million, representing a 49% year-over-year increase. Furthermore, corporate filings show the company successfully reduced its total debt to an all-time low of $15.9 million by the end of September 2025. The Collins Aerospace announcement is part of a broader operational momentum observed in late 2025 and early 2026. According to compiled industry research, CPI Aero has recently secured several other notable contracts across both commercial and defense sectors. These include a $4.2 million order from Embraer S.A. for engine inlet assemblies on Phenom 300 business jets, with deliveries running through mid-2026.
In the defense sector, the company secured a $9 million order from Lockheed Martin for Rudder Island Drag Chute Canister assemblies, extending deliveries through 2028. Additionally, CPI Aero received a $6 million follow-on order from Raytheon for airborne pods, alongside funded orders from Sikorsky to support the sustainment of the MH-60 Seahawk helicopter fleet.
To support this growing backlog, CPI Aero has made recent moves to solidify its operational infrastructure and financial liquidity. Corporate announcements confirm that the company recently extended the lease agreement for its primary manufacturing facility in Edgewood, New York, securing the site until April 2031.
On the financial front, CPI Aero entered into a new Loan and Security Agreement with Western Alliance Bank. This agreement established two credit facilities totaling $20 million, which the company stated will be used to support ongoing operations and facilitate future growth initiatives.
We view the follow-on order from Collins Aerospace as a strong validation of CPI Aero’s acquisition and integration strategy regarding Compac Development Corporation. By leveraging Compac’s niche expertise in RF/EMI shielding, CPI Aero has successfully diversified its revenue streams, reducing its historical reliance on large structural aircraft parts and legacy platforms like the A-10 Thunderbolt.
Furthermore, the steady cadence of new orders in early 2026 demonstrates a successful pivot following the financial headwinds of early 2025. With a reported backlog exceeding $500 million and delivery schedules stretching into 2027 and 2028, we note that CPI Aero has established a highly visible and predictable revenue pipeline. The combination of reduced debt, new credit facilities, and a secured manufacturing footprint positions the company favorably to execute on these long-term contracts.
Radio Frequency (RF) and Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) shielded enclosures are specialized housings designed to block external electromagnetic signals from interfering with sensitive electronic components inside, while also preventing internal signals from leaking out.
The order will be fulfilled by Compac Development Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CPI Aerostructures that has specialized in RFI/EMI shielding solutions since 1976. According to CPI Aero, deliveries for the Hamilton Sundstrand (Collins Aerospace) order are expected to continue through mid-2027.
Expanding the Collins Aerospace Relationship
The Role of Compac Development Corporation
Financial Rebound and Strategic Growth
Overcoming Early 2025 Headwinds
A Wave of Recent Contract Wins
Corporate Infrastructure and Liquidity
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What are RF/EMI shielded enclosures?
Who is fulfilling the Collins Aerospace order?
When will the deliveries be completed?
Sources
Photo Credit: Montage
MRO & Manufacturing
AerFin Sells Airbus A330 Airframe to Airline Parts Trading Division
AerFin finalizes sale of Airbus A330 airframe to enhance used serviceable material supply in the global aviation aftermarket.
This article is based on an official press release from AerFin.
AerFin has successfully finalized the sale of an Airbus A330 airframe to the parts trading division of an undisclosed airline. According to a recent company press release, this transaction is aimed at bolstering the availability of used serviceable material (USM) within the global aviation aftermarket.
As the aviation industry continues to navigate supply chain constraints, airlines and parts traders are increasingly seeking reliable sources of components. The A330 platform, in particular, remains a critical asset for operators looking to sustain their existing fleets while effectively managing operational costs.
This strategic sale highlights the growing importance of end-of-life asset management and the recycling of widebody aircraft to support ongoing global flight operations. By transitioning retired or surplus airframes into the parts ecosystem, the industry can better maintain active fleets.
The demand for dependable aircraft components has driven a robust market for transitioning airframes. In its press release, AerFin noted that A330 airframes continue to play a vital role in helping operators manage cost pressures and maintain fleet reliability.
By placing this specific A330 airframe with an airline’s parts trading arm, AerFin is facilitating the extraction and redistribution of high-value used serviceable material. This process ensures that critical components remain in circulation, supporting the maintenance needs of active A330 aircraft worldwide.
AerFin emphasized its expertise across widebody platforms, which allows the company to identify optimal placement opportunities for airframes. The goal is to deliver the maximum operational value from assets that have reached the end of their primary service life but still contain valuable, serviceable parts.
“Widebody airframes remain an important source of material for the industry, particularly for platforms with a long operational life ahead of them. This sale reflects our ability to place assets with customers who understand how to maximise their value,” stated AerFin in the company release.
The transaction underscores a broader industry trend where the full asset lifecycle is carefully managed to keep viable aircraft parts in active use. AerFin’s focus on lifecycle support provides a necessary pipeline of USM for the global aftermarket. Working with airlines and parts traders globally, the company continues to position aircraft and components where they can offer the most significant economic and operational benefits, ensuring that usable material does not go to waste.
We observe that the sale of widebody airframes for part-out and USM harvesting is becoming increasingly critical in today’s aviation landscape. As new aircraft delivery delays persist and engine maintenance turnaround times remain extended across the industry, operators are heavily reliant on the secondary market to keep their aircraft flying.
The Airbus A330, with its large global footprint and continued operational relevance, is a prime candidate for such lifecycle management. By feeding the USM supply chain, companies like AerFin help alleviate the acute parts shortages that currently challenge airline maintenance schedules, providing a cost-effective alternative to procuring new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
What aircraft type was sold by AerFin? Who purchased the A330 airframe? What is the purpose of this transaction?
Sustaining the Widebody Fleet
Maximizing Asset Value
The Role of Used Serviceable Material (USM)
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
AerFin completed the sale of an Airbus A330 airframe.
According to the press release, the airframe was purchased by the parts trading arm of an airline.
The sale is intended to support the availability of used serviceable material (USM) across the global aviation aftermarket, helping operators sustain their fleets and manage costs.
Sources
Photo Credit: AerFin
MRO & Manufacturing
Woodward to Acquire Valve Research Manufacturing Expanding Aerospace Valves
Woodward, Inc. announced plans to acquire Valve Research & Manufacturing, enhancing its aerospace valve portfolio. Closing expected in first half of 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Woodward, Inc.
Woodward, Inc. has announced an agreement to acquire Jet Research Development, Inc., which operates as Valve Research & Manufacturing Company (VRM). Based in Florida, VRM specializes in producing high-precision flow control valves for the aerospace sector. The acquisitions aims to expand Woodward’s aerospace controls portfolio by integrating VRM’s precision electromagnetic valve solutions, including solenoid, check, and relief valves.
According to the official press release, the transaction includes all outstanding shares of VRM, its manufacturing assets, and associated real estate. The deal is projected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.
Woodward stated that VRM will continue its operations without interruption. Customer contracts and supplier relationships are expected to remain unchanged following the acquisition, ensuring continuity for the aerospace original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) that rely on VRM’s components.
The integration of VRM’s technology is expected to open new growth avenues for Woodward across both commercial and defense aerospace applications. The company highlighted that solenoid technology for precision flow control is critical for current and future aircraft programs, including Next Generation Single Aisle (NSA) initiatives.
VRM brings a workforce of approximately 130 employees with specialized expertise in flow control technologies. This workforce will complement Woodward’s existing engineering and manufacturing capabilities in fuel and motion control systems.
“This acquisition is another example of how we are adding critical enablers to best serve our customers and grow our business,” said Shawn McLevige, President of Woodward’s Aerospace segment, in the company’s press release. “In the near term, it provides opportunities to optimize our supply-chain and enhance our ability to deliver on robust market demand.”
Valve Research & Manufacturing Company was founded in 1974 by Paul L. Cruz in a 900-square-foot warehouse in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Over the past 50 years, the family-owned business has grown into a trusted supplier for major commercial and defense aircraft programs.
The decision to sell to Woodward was driven by a long-standing relationship between the two companies. VRM leadership emphasized Woodward’s reputation for employee care and engineering excellence as key factors in the acquisition agreement. “After more than 50 years as a family-owned business, we were thoughtful about choosing the right partner for Valve Research’s next chapter,” stated Patricia Kilgallon, President of Valve Research. “We’ve worked with Woodward for decades and know the caliber of their organization.”
We view Woodward’s acquisition of VRM as aligning with a broader industry trend of aerospace tier-one suppliers consolidating their supply chains to secure critical component manufacturing. By bringing precision electromagnetic valve production in-house, Woodward can better control lead times and mitigate supply chain bottlenecks that have challenged the aerospace sector in recent years. Furthermore, positioning for Next Generation Single Aisle (NSA) programs indicates a forward-looking strategy to secure content on future high-volume aircraft platforms.
According to the press release, the transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026.
Woodward has stated that VRM will continue operating without interruption, and existing customer and supplier relationships will remain unchanged.
VRM manufactures high-precision flow control valves, including solenoid valves, check valves, and relief valves, primarily for aerospace applications.
Strategic Growth and Aerospace Integration
A Legacy of Precision Engineering
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Woodward and VRM acquisition expected to close?
Will VRM’s operations be affected by the acquisition?
What does Valve Research & Manufacturing Company produce?
Sources
Photo Credit: Woodward
MRO & Manufacturing
GE Aerospace Invests €110M to Expand European Manufacturing in 2026
GE Aerospace invests over €110 million to expand manufacturing in Europe, hires 1,000+ workers, and funds training programs to support aerospace growth.
This article is based on an official press release from GE Aerospace.
On March 18, 2026, GE Aerospace announced a major strategic investment of more than €110 million (approximately $126.6 million) aimed at expanding its European manufacturing footprint. According to the official press release, the capital injection is designed to increase production capacity, accelerate the deployment of advanced manufacturing technologies, and fortify supply chain deliveries across the continent.
In addition to the significant infrastructure and equipment upgrades, the aerospace giant is pairing its financial commitment with a robust human capital initiative. The company stated it plans to hire over 1,000 new workers across Europe throughout 2026. This workforce expansion is accompanied by targeted funding for educational programs to help mitigate the critical skills shortage currently facing the global aerospace and defense sectors.
At AirPro News, we recognize that this European expansion represents a critical step in addressing industry-wide supply chain bottlenecks. By scaling up local manufacturing and testing capabilities, GE Aerospace is positioning itself to better meet the surging demand for both commercial and military engine programs.
According to the company’s announcement, the €110 million investment will be strategically distributed across manufacturing facilities in five European countries. Each location will receive targeted funding to upgrade specific technological and infrastructure capabilities.
Separate from the €110 million dedicated to manufacturing, GE Aerospace noted in its release that it plans to invest approximately €40 million in 2026 across its European Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) and component repair facilities. This specific funding is part of a broader $1 billion global MRO investment program that the company initially announced in 2024.
The primary objective of this capital injection is to address growing customer demand and improve delivery timelines across the aerospace sector. A substantial portion of the funds will be directed toward state-of-the-art engine test cells, advanced machining equipment, and the expansion of additive manufacturing (3D printing) capabilities.
According to the press release, these technological enhancements will directly support the production and testing of multiple engine programs. This includes commercial narrowbody and widebody engines, as well as military fighter jet and helicopter engines.
“This significant investment reflects our long-term commitment to the European aerospace industry, a crucial market for many of our key customers. By expanding advanced manufacturing and testing capabilities across Europe, we are better positioned to meet growing customer demand while supporting the communities and economies where we operate.” Recognizing that advanced manufacturing requires a highly trained workforce, GE Aerospace is actively investing in human capital alongside its physical infrastructure. The company’s commitment to hiring more than 1,000 new workers across Europe in 2026 is a direct response to the operational needs generated by this expansion. To ensure a steady pipeline of talent, the company is funding several educational initiatives. According to the announcement, GE Aerospace is providing workforce training grants to vocational schools in the UK and Italy, with a stated goal of reaching more than 800 students this year.
Furthermore, the company is expanding its “Next Engineers” program in Warsaw, Poland. GE Aerospace projects that this initiative will ultimately reach and equip more than 4,000 students for future careers in engineering, helping to secure the next generation of aerospace innovators.
We view this announcement as a clear indicator of GE Aerospace’s synchronized global strategy to scale up production capabilities and insulate its supply chain from regional disruptions. Europe currently represents the company’s largest global footprint outside of the United States, where it operates in 18 countries and employs approximately 13,000 engineers, innovators, and skilled manufacturers.
This €110 million European expansion follows closely on the heels of a recently announced $1 billion investment in GE Aerospace’s U.S. operations for 2026. By investing heavily in localized European manufacturing and MRO facilities simultaneously with its U.S. base, the company is actively working to reduce bottlenecks. This dual-pronged approach ensures readiness for both the anticipated growth in commercial aviation and the stringent requirements of the defense sector.
How much is GE Aerospace investing in Europe in 2026? Which European country is receiving the largest share of the investment? How many jobs will this investment create? What educational programs is GE Aerospace funding? Sources:
Breakdown of the €110 Million European Investment
Major Upgrades by Country
Additional MRO Funding
Strategic Objectives and Supply Chain Resilience
, Riccardo Procacci, President and CEO of Propulsion & Additive Technologies at GE Aerospace
Addressing the Aerospace Skills Shortage
Job Creation and Educational Grants
AirPro News analysis
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
GE Aerospace is investing over €110 million in European manufacturing facilities, plus an additional €40 million across its European MRO and component repair facilities.
Italy is receiving the largest portion of the manufacturing investment, with €77 million allocated for engine test cells, advanced machining, additive manufacturing, and facility upgrades.
According to the company’s press release, GE Aerospace plans to hire more than 1,000 new workers across Europe throughout 2026.
The company is providing vocational training grants in the UK and Italy to reach over 800 students, and expanding its “Next Engineers” program in Poland, which aims to equip more than 4,000 students for engineering careers.
Photo Credit: GE Aerospace
-
Defense & Military5 days agoUSAF Awards Boeing $2.33B Contract for E-7A Wedgetail Development
-
MRO & Manufacturing6 days agoÖAMTC and Airbus Sign Long-Term Contract for H135 H140 H145 Helicopters
-
Airlines Strategy6 days agoSpirit Airlines Files Restructuring Plan to Exit Chapter 11 by Summer 2026
-
Defense & Military5 days agoAirbus and Kratos to Deliver Uncrewed Combat Aircraft to Germany by 2029
-
Technology & Innovation4 days ago3M Partners with JetZero to Develop Fuel-Efficient Blended-Wing Airliner