$2.5M State Grant Supports Cutting-Edge Manufacturing Growth in Connecticut
Newington, CT — September 3, 2025 — GKN Aerospace, a global leader in aerostructures and engine systems, has announced a major expansion of its manufacturing center in Newington, Connecticut. The facility will introduce a new production line for additively fabricated engine components—technology originally developed in Sweden and now being scaled in the U.S. to meet growing demand from major aerospace customers.
The expansion reinforces GKN Aerospace’s commitment to innovation and supply chain resilience, positioning critical operations closer to its customer base. The company’s decision to grow in Connecticut was supported by a $2.5 million grant from the state’s Strategic Supply Chain Initiative, aimed at enhancing domestic production capacity and reshoring operations from overseas.
“This expansion marks an exciting step forward as we bring our latest additive fabrication technology to Connecticut,” said Sebastien Aknouche, Senior Vice President of Material Solutions at GKN Aerospace. “The state’s support, combined with the region’s skilled workforce and aerospace ecosystem, makes Newington the ideal location for this next phase of innovation.”
The Newington facility is one of two GKN Aerospace manufacturing centers in Connecticut, alongside its Cromwell location. The new additive production line will support programs across commercial and defense platforms, building on GKN’s proven track record with components already flying on multiple aircraft.
“Retaining and advancing our expertise in fabrication, welding, and NDT is critical to supporting our customers’ programs,” said Sergio Moren, Vice President of North American East Site Operations. “This expansion strengthens our performance and reflects GKN’s agility in meeting evolving industry demands.”
The announcement follows a Connecticut delegation’s visit to the Paris Air Show earlier this summer, where Governor Ned Lamont and representatives from AdvanceCT and the Department of Economic & Community Development met with global manufacturers, including GKN Aerospace.
“GKN’s expansion brings next-generation technology to Connecticut and underscores our state’s role in the global aerospace industry,” said Daniel O’Keefe, Commissioner of Economic Development.
“Connecticut is the number one location for aircraft engine and engine parts manufacturing in the U.S.,” added John Bourdeaux, President and CEO of AdvanceCT. “Companies like GKN Aerospace recognize the unmatched advantages our state offers for innovation and growth.”
About GKN Aerospace
GKN Aerospace is a UK-based tier one supplier of airframe and engine structures, landing gear, electrical systems, transparencies, and aftermarket services. Serving both commercial and military sectors, the company operates 32 manufacturing sites across 12 countries and employs more than 16,000 people globally. Learn more at www.gknaerospace.com.
About AdvanceCT
AdvanceCT is a business-driven nonprofit focused on engaging, retaining, and recruiting companies to Connecticut. In partnership with the Department of Economic and Community Development, AdvanceCT drives high-impact, equitable economic development across the state. Learn more at www.advancect.org.
Press Contact:
Ben Dwyer AdvanceCT P
860-571-6211
bdwyer@advancect.org
