TOULOUSE: GKN Aerospace’s business in the Netherlands, GKN Fokker, has signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus Helicopters during the visit of Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to Airbus here on the 1st of Oct, 2025.
The Royal visit highlighted the strategic importance of the long-standing relationship between Airbus, the Netherlands and the Dutch aerospace eco-system. The newly signed MoU follows the official purchase of 12 H225M helicopters by the Dutch Ministry of Defence and further strengthens the collaboration between GKN Aerospace and Airbus Helicopters.
It will advance the development of critical systems like electrical wiring interconnection systems (EWIS) and advanced composite technology for the Airbus H225M Caracal helicopter, creating a steppingstone for broader European defence cooperation and autonomy.
This agreement builds on the MoU signed between Airbus Helicopters and GKN Fokker in 2023. That collaboration laid the foundation for industrial participation in areas including engineering, EWIS design and manufacturing and aerostructures.
Airbus Helicopters and GKN Fokker have a long-standing partnership, notably through their joint work on the NH90 programme as part of the NHIndustries consortium with Leonardo. With this new MoU, both companies reaffirm their shared ambition to drive innovation, strengthen the aerospace industry in the Netherlands and Europe, and expand cooperation with Dutch industry and governments.
John Pritchard, President Civil Airframe of GKN Aerospace said:
“This MoU reflects the trust and shared vision between Airbus Helicopters and GKN Aerospace. Together, we are advancing aerospace technology and strengthening industrial cooperation in the Netherlands and Europe.”
GKN Aerospace is a global multi-technology leader in the aerospace industry, specialising in the development and delivery of cutting-edge aerostructures and engine systems. Our unrivalled products, systems, and services are integral to 90% of today’s aircraft ranging from helicopters, business jets, passenger planes and advanced air mobility vehicles to state-of-the-art fighter aircraft.
Our commitment to innovation and cutting-edge technology is evident in the application of lightweight composites, additive fabrication, electrical wiring interconnection systems, and ground breaking engine systems, reducing both weight and cost in today’s aircraft and engines. GKN Aerospace is at the forefront of sustainable technology, developing breakthrough solutions to achieve emission-free flight. Our global technology centres collaborate with industry partners around the world to accelerate the development of pioneering technologies, including hydrogen-powered propulsion and all-electric flight.
Operating in 12 countries, GKN Aerospace employs a workforce of 16,000 employees across more than 30 locations. GKN Aerospace has global sales of £3.4bn and is listed under its parent company name Melrose Industries PLC (LSE:MRO).
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