MTU Aero Engines, a prominent player in the aerospace industry, has announced its acquisition of 3D.aero, a Hamburg-based company that specialises in automation and measurement technology. The deal, which involves an undisclosed financial arrangement, marks a significant step for MTU as it seeks to enhance its technological capabilities in the aerospace sector.
The collaboration between MTU and 3D.aero has not been novel, as the two companies have previously collaborated on various projects, leveraging 3D.aero’s sensor solutions for tasks such as surface inspection and automation of painting processes. Michael Schreyoegg, MTU’s chief programme officer, commented on the partnership, stating, “In the past years, MTU and 3D.aero have pooled their technological know-how and innovative strength and successfully implemented projects together. That saves MTU and its customers time and hence money, especially in maintenance. It therefore simply makes sense to keep this expertise within the company permanently.”
MTU Aero Engines has already integrated three distinct 3D.aero systems into its operations, focusing on automated inspection, repair, and assembly technologies. The acquisition aims to facilitate the scaling of these technologies within MTU’s broader operational framework.
Soenke Bahr, the managing director of 3D.aero, expressed optimism about the merger, stating, “Being a part of MTU offers us the opportunity to better scale our products in the industrial environment.” Bahr is set to continue leading 3D.aero, ensuring the continuity of the company’s operations under its new ownership. A total of 40 employees from 3D.aero will also transition to MTU as part of this deal.
3D.aero was established in 2018 and has been owned by a consortium of three stakeholders: the employee shareholding company Ce iX and IT Concepts, both based in Germany, alongside Luxembourg’s Espace 2001, which procured its shareholding in 2021 from Lufthansa Technik and Pepperl + Fuchs. The acquisition is anticipated to further bolster MTU’s position in the aerospace sector by enhancing its technological arsenal and operational capabilities.
Source: Noah Wire Services