GKN Aerospace has officially launched ASPIRE, a 12 million pound UK-based R&D programme aimed at developing and demonstrating advanced composite wing and flap structures for next-generation aircraft. Running from May 2025 through April 2028, the three-year initiative brings together cutting-edge UK SMEs, academia, and GKN's industrial expertise to accelerate innovation in sustainable, high-rate aerospace manufacturing.
ASPIRE will deliver three full-scale composite wingtip demonstrators, each reflecting a unique structural concept. Variant one represents GKN's bonded assembly design; variant two explores state-of-the-art co-infused RTM structures with automated deposition and digital twin capabilities; and variant three introduces novel low-energy dry fibre forming and SmaRTM processing.
Key technologies under assessment include iCOMAT's Rapid Tow Sheared (RTS) design for ultra-lightweight structures and Carbon ThreeSixty's stitched deltoid noodles made from recycled carbon fibre via the Lineat AFFT process. These innovations will be validated under Ultimate Load structural tests, providing high-fidelity performance data.
In parallel, the programme will also develop an optimized composite flap structure. This demonstrator will utilize RTS skins, tailored fibre-placed brackets, out-of-autoclave curing, and press-cured ribs, targeting Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL6) for press-curing processes. The work builds on GKN Aerospace's manufacturing legacy from the A350 programme and will inform future single-aisle aircraft designs.
"ASPIRE is a perfect example of the power of UK collaboration to drive aerospace innovation," said John Pritchard, President Civil Airframe at GKN Aerospace. "It strengthens our role as a trusted technology partner for future aircraft platforms and reinforces our commitment to shaping a more efficient and more sustainable aerospace industry."
The programme is backed by leading UK innovation partners including Pentaxia, iCOMAT, Carbon ThreeSixty, Lineat, and the University of Bath, making it a flagship effort in future-ready, eco-efficient aircraft component development.
Source: www.gknaerospace.com
