BAE will collaborate with Renishaw to develop additive manufacturing capabilities for the defense and aerospace sector. The deal is designed to help improve performance, reduce costs and speed up manufacturing processes on combat aircraft of the future.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) lays the framework for BAE to bring together world-leading expertise in additive manufacturing (AM) to maximize the application of this novel emerging manufacturing technique. The agreement also opens up opportunities for joint research and development.  Â
The MoU was signed by Manufacturing & Materials Strategy & Technology Director for BAE Systems, Andy Schofield, and Will Lee, Chief Executive, Renishaw, during a visit to our manufacturing facilities in Samlesbury, Lancashire.Â
The site is home to several Renishaw advanced AM machines which form part of a 1,000-square meter New Product Development & Process Development Center (NPPDC), where the latest emerging technologies and processes such as AM and virtual reality are explored and tested for application into aircraft design and manufacture.
BAE started research into additive manufacturing techniques more than 20 years ago and is currently using the technology to make production standard components for the Typhoon fighter aircraft. It is also applied in the rapid prototyping of new technology concepts as part of a drive to deliver Tempest, a next generation combat air system.
Â