GKN Aerospace Norway and
Norwegian Catapult Manufacturing Technology in Kongsberg (Kongsberg Technology Cluster) have signed a strategic agreement to invest in and expand advanced additive manufacturing (AM) capabilities at GKN Aerospace’s engines facility in Kongsberg.
AM reduces material waste, shortens supply chains, and lowers environmental impact. Through this collaboration, Norwegian Catapult and GKN Aerospace will accelerate industrial adoption of AM and build a platform for advanced, sustainable AM in Norway.
This agreement marks the next step in the continued expansion of GKN Aerospace’s global AM capability, following recent investments in Sweden and the USA. By partnering with Norwegian Catapult, GKN Aerospace is reinforcing its strategy to expand capacity, accelerate innovation, and bring advanced AM closer to customers, while simultaneously supporting Norway’s ambition to lead in sustainable industrial innovation and development.
Sébastien Aknouche, senior vice president of material solutions at GKN Aerospace, added: “AM is a cornerstone of our vision for the future of aerospace. This partnership with Norwegian Catapult enables us to fully industrialise AM technology and bring sustainable, high-performance solutions closer to our customers.”
Ole B. Hoen, head of the Kongsberg Technology Cluster, said: “Together with GKN Aerospace, we are building a platform for future-oriented manufacturing in Norway. This collaboration combines world-class expertise with a shared ambition to drive technological progress and support a ‘greener’ industry. By co-investing in this initiative, we ensure that the unique infrastructure and competence GKN Aerospace now gets in Kongsberg becomes available to the broader Norwegian Industry who will follow in GKN Aerospace’s footsteps through learning and testing in the Catapult.”
The agreement supports GKN Aerospace’s long-term strategy to expand its global AM capabilities, including broader investments in advanced machinery, hardware, and industrial infrastructure. This growth is central to the company’s technology roadmap. GKN Aerospace’s proprietary AM technologies enable breakthrough methods for producing critical components for many of the world’s leading aerospace engines. Strengthening its centre of excellence in Kongsberg enhances the company’s ability to meet rising demand from engine OEMs and reinforces GKN Aerospace’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in next-generation engine manufacturing.