Airbus A400M boss applauds Denel

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Nadine Mather and Chloë Loubser

Denel's Aerostructures (DSA) partnership with Airbus in the manufacturing of the A400M airlifter was discussed at a meeting with the head of the Airbus A400M programme, Cedric Gautier, who is in South Africa to evaluate the work done by DSA in the manufacturing of vital parts for the world's most advanced military transport plane.

"DSA is one of Airbus' most reliable suppliers for the manufacturing of the A400," Gautier said, "we are pleased with the quality of workmanship and the engineering know-how available in the company."

DSA is one of a select few manufacturers, outside of Europe, responsible for the design and manufacturing of key components fitted to the versatile airlifter. The A400M is manufactured by Airbus Military which has already received 174 orders from eight countries for the long-range military transport vehicle. DSA is currently responsible for two A400M work packages, the Wing to Fuselage Fairing and the Topshells. The Wing to Fuselage Fairing (WFF) is an essential part of the aircraft that provides protection against lightning strikes, hail damage and bird strikes to the sensitive equipment under the centre wing portion.

Ismail Dockrat, the CEO of DSA said the company is proud of its participation in one of the most challenging projects in global aviation history. "We enjoy an excellent working relationship with Airbus and this visit enables us to evaluate the work we are doing against the requirements and standards of our client," he said. According to Denel's Group CEO Talib Sadik, Gautier's visit "strengthens the partnership between DSA and Airbus and confirms our mutual commitment towards a sustainable long-term relationship."

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