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.

Strategic Growth and Aerospace Integration

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.”

A Legacy of Precision Engineering

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.”

AirPro News analysis

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Woodward and VRM acquisition expected to close?

According to the press release, the transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2026.

Will VRM’s operations be affected by the acquisition?

Woodward has stated that VRM will continue operating without interruption, and existing customer and supplier relationships will remain unchanged.

What does Valve Research & Manufacturing Company produce?

VRM manufactures high-precision flow control valves, including solenoid valves, check valves, and relief valves, primarily for aerospace applications.

Sources

• Woodward, Inc.

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.

Breakdown of the €110 Million European Investment

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.

Major Upgrades by Country

• Italy (€77 million): Receiving the vast majority of the investment, funds in Italy will be utilized to bring new and upgraded engine test cells online. The company also plans to enhance advanced machining and additive manufacturing equipment, alongside broader building improvements across multiple Italian sites.
• Poland (€15 million): The allocation for Poland is directed toward advanced grinding and machining equipment, extensive welding and inspection tooling, and general facility enhancements.
• United Kingdom (€10 million): In the UK, the investment will fund upgrades to testing and manufacturing equipment, expand electronics and component manufacturing capabilities, and modernize existing building infrastructure.
• Czech Republic (€8 million): Funds here are focused on updating precision machining and grinding systems, integrating new quality inspection technology, upgrading assembly tooling, and improving buildings.
• Romania (€3 million): The Romanian facilities will see the integration of multiple metal-cutting machines, alongside necessary upgrades to tooling, fixtures, and building infrastructure.

Additional MRO Funding

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.

Strategic Objectives and Supply Chain Resilience

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.”
, Riccardo Procacci, President and CEO of Propulsion & Additive Technologies at GE Aerospace

Addressing the Aerospace Skills Shortage

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.

Job Creation and Educational Grants

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.

AirPro News analysis

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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much is GE Aerospace investing in Europe in 2026?
GE Aerospace is investing over €110 million in European manufacturing facilities, plus an additional €40 million across its European MRO and component repair facilities.

Which European country is receiving the largest share of the investment?
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.

How many jobs will this investment create?
According to the company’s press release, GE Aerospace plans to hire more than 1,000 new workers across Europe throughout 2026.

What educational programs is GE Aerospace funding?
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.

Sources:

• GE Aerospace Official Press Release

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

Locatory.com has officially announced the addition of COMAF Indústria Aeronáutica to its global aviation marketplace. According to a company press release, this strategic integration aims to connect Latin American maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) expertise with a worldwide digital supply chain. The partnership provides airlines and operators globally with streamlined access to specialized repair capabilities and an extensive inventory of aircraft components.

For COMAF, joining the digital platform aligns with its strategy to expand its international presence and strengthen connections with operators across key growth regions. For Locatory.com, the addition of a veteran Brazilian MRO provider bolsters its network of reliable, globally coordinated maintenance solutions, further solidifying its position as a comprehensive hub for aviation procurement.

Expanding Global Reach for Brazilian MRO Expertise

Founded in September 1977 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, COMAF brings nearly 50 years of experience to the Locatory network. According to background data provided alongside the announcement, the Part-145 component maintenance organization delivers fully in-house repair and overhaul solutions. The company holds active certifications from major global aviation authorities, including the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and the Brazilian National Civil Aviation Agency (ANAC).

Technical Capabilities and Specializations

The official press release notes that COMAF’s scope of work covers more than 20,000 part numbers, offering comprehensive nose-to-tail component support across a wide range of aircraft systems. These systems include landing gear and propellers, as well as electrical, pneumatic, electronic, avionics, and hydraulic components. Notably, the firm possesses strong technical expertise in maintaining components for ATR and Embraer aircraft platforms, providing critical support for these widely used regional aircraft.

Streamlining International Logistics

Beyond its technical repair capabilities, COMAF operates a dedicated logistics management structure and an integrated repair management system. According to the company, this infrastructure provides customers with end-to-end visibility, from initial collection and customs coordination to repair control and final delivery. This integrated approach enables operators to reduce lead times, simplify the complexities of international logistics, and maintain predictable component availability.

The Digitalization of Aviation Procurement

Locatory.com, founded in 2010 as a subsidiary of Avia Solutions Group, operates as a digital aviation marketplace supported by advanced tools and API integrations. Corporate data indicates the platform connects over 25,000 industry members and provides access to more than 10 billion aircraft parts across over 150 warehouses worldwide, boasting a 95% search success rate.

Locatory.com’s Digital Ecosystem

By joining the platform, COMAF gains access to Locatory’s suite of digital solutions designed to modernize the aircraft parts aftermarket. According to the press release, these tools include Amber A.I., an artificial-intelligence-based email tool that automates the Request for Quote (RFQ) process by intelligently parsing emails for part numbers and instantly matching buyers with suppliers. Additionally, the platform offers an integrated Shipping Service that the company claims provides up to 70% savings on international deliveries, as well as a Surplus Inventory Management solution to help aviation businesses optimize warehouse space.

“We are pleased to welcome COMAF Indústria Aeronáutica to the Locatory.com platform. Their extensive component repair expertise and long-standing industry experience make them a valuable addition to our global aviation network. Through Locatory, COMAF will be able to showcase its MRO capabilities while also buying and selling aircraft parts, strengthening connections with airlines, operators, and aviation partners worldwide.”

AirPro News analysis

We view this partnership as indicative of broader, necessary shifts within the global aviation aftermarket. Industry research highlights that the average commercial aircraft age is currently around 12 years. As operators keep older aircraft flying longer due to ongoing supply chain bottlenecks and a backlog of new aircraft deliveries from major manufacturers, the demand for reliable MRO services and spare parts continues to rise significantly.

Historically, aircraft parts procurement has been a highly manual, fragmented, and time-consuming process. The adoption of digital marketplaces like Locatory.com represents a critical industry shift toward digitalization. Airlines are increasingly adopting “just-in-time” inventory management and automated commerce to reduce Aircraft on Ground (AOG) downtime and improve procurement efficiencies. Furthermore, by integrating into a global digital supply chain, regional powerhouses like Brazil’s COMAF can offer their highly specialized services, such as native Embraer maintenance, to a worldwide audience, bridging the gap between regional technical expertise and global operator demand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is COMAF Indústria Aeronáutica?
COMAF is a Brazilian Part-145 component maintenance organization with 48 years of experience, providing in-house repair and overhaul solutions certified by the FAA, EASA, UK CAA, and ANAC.

What aircraft platforms does COMAF specialize in?
According to the company, COMAF has strong technical expertise in maintaining components for ATR and Embraer aircraft platforms, alongside comprehensive nose-to-tail support for various other systems.

What is Locatory.com?
Locatory.com is a global digital aviation marketplace that enables airlines, MRO providers, and aviation suppliers to source, buy, and sell aircraft parts and services using advanced digital tools and AI integrations.

Sources

• Locatory Official Press Release