Mubadala signs deal to boost aerospace expertise

Mubadala Development has linked up with a leading US producer of carbon fibre materials for airplanes to develop its expertise in aerospace manufacturing.

Mubadala Development has linked up with a leading American producer of carbon fibre materials for planes to develop its expertise in aerospace manufacturing.

The Abu Dhabi-based investment and development company yesterday announced the agreement with Cytec Industries.

“This collaboration with Cytec will contribute positively to Mubadala’s efforts in creating a complete aerospace supply chain in Abu Dhabi as we remain focused on becoming a leading industry partner in the development of next generation commercial aircraft,” said Homaid Al Shemmari, the executive director of Mubadala Aerospace, Communications Technology and Defence Services.

The two companies said they would explore building facilities in Abu Dhabi to make pre-impregnated composite fibres.

Last month, Strata Manufacturing, Mubadala's advanced composite aerostructures plant, announced deals valued at up to US$5 billion to provide composite materials and metallic aerostructure parts to Airbus and Boeing.

Officials aim to make Al Ain, where the plant is based, a leading centre for aerospace manufacturing, as well as creating 20,000 jobs within the wider industry by 2030.

Demand for composite materials for next-generation aircraft is growing as airlines demand less weight and improved fuel efficiency for airplanes.

Based in New Jersey, Cytec specialises in developing advanced materials for markets including aerospace, industrial materials, mining and plastics.

“Cytec’s collaboration with Mubadala is consistent with our growth strategy,” said Shane Fleming, the company’s chief executive. “This alliance benefits the expansion of aerospace in emerging regions of the world, and we are excited to support the development of new composite applications.”