GKN Aerospace Norway has entered a strategic partnership with the Norwegian Catapult Manufacturing Technology cluster in Kongsberg to significantly expand advanced additive manufacturing (AM) capabilities at GKN’s Kongsberg engine facility. This collaborative investment aims to accelerate the industrial adoption of 3D printing technology, establishing a national platform for sustainable, high-value manufacturing.
The initiative underscores the core advantages of additive manufacturing: a drastic reduction in material waste, shorter and more resilient supply chains, and a lower overall environmental footprint. By pooling resources and expertise, GKN Aerospace and Norwegian Catapult intend to fast-track the transition from prototyping to full-scale industrial production using these technologies.
This move represents the latest phase in GKN Aerospace’s global AM expansion, building on recent investments in Sweden and the United States. The partnership directly supports the company’s strategy to increase production capacity, accelerate innovation, and deploy advanced manufacturing closer to its global customer base. Simultaneously, it aligns with Norway’s industrial ambitions to pioneer sustainable technological development.
“Additive manufacturing is a cornerstone of our vision for the future of aerospace,” said Sébastien Aknouche, Senior Vice President of Material Solutions at GKN Aerospace. “This partnership with Norwegian Catapult enables us to fully industrialise additive technology and bring sustainable, high-performance solutions closer to our customers.”
For the broader Norwegian industry, the collaboration is designed to create a valuable innovation conduit. “We are building a platform for future-oriented manufacturing,” explained Ole B. Hoen, Head of the Kongsberg Technology Cluster. “By co-investing, we ensure that the unique infrastructure and competence GKN Aerospace develops in Kongsberg become accessible to other Norwegian companies. They can follow in GKN’s footsteps through learning and testing within the Catapult network.”
The investment will focus on advanced machinery, hardware, and industrial infrastructure at the Kongsberg centre of excellence. GKN Aerospace utilizes its proprietary AM technologies to produce critical components for leading aerospace engines. Strengthening the Kongsberg site enhances its ability to meet growing demand from engine manufacturers and reinforces its commitment to innovation and sustainability in next-generation engine production.
