transparency systems
GKN Aerospace is one of world’s leading providers of civil and military transparency systems. We designed and produce the cockpit canopy for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the F-22 Raptor and the Eurofighter Typhoon. We support in-production and in-service requirements with canopies for the F-15, F-18 and the Tornado and Harrier fighters. Our systems are also in operation on a wide range of rotary platforms such as the AgustaWestland AW101 and Lynx, Sikorsky H-60 Black Hawk and Boeing CH-47 Chinook.
Comprehensive transparency services span design, development, test and manufacture of glass and acrylic systems. Complementing our profile in the military sector is our position as one of the largest suppliers of cockpit and cabin windows to the civil market. Market leadership is maintained by research and development to deliver advanced forming and coating products which enhance the passenger experience, reduce maintenance and extend the life cycle. Expertise includes electrical de-icing and de-misting, low observability (RF Screening), solar / ultraviolet filters and transparent erosion and highly resilient scratch-resistant coatings.
GKN Aerospace works to support customers in reducing costs while advancing aircraft design in key areas of performance. For instance, we provide cabin windows in panels so they can be easily fitted into the fuselage and our transparencies set new benchmarks in areas such as screening: the large-size passenger windows supplied for the Boeing 787 Dreamliner include innovative solar and emissions protection technologies to enhance passenger comfort.
GKN Aerospace is also at the forefront of the specialised Bullet Resistant Glass, (BRG) market. Our expertise in protecting vehicle personnel is delivered through complete skill sets, from thoroughly exploring and proofing concepts, to design, testing (in our global ballistic facilities), manufacture and aftermarket care. Advanced capabilities include laminates that add high visible light and infra-red light transmission properties to advance night vision, anti scratch and anti-reflection coatings and a de-icing heater system. All of these qualities are built into windows that are as lightweight and as thin as possible in materials including glass, acrylic and polycarbonate to deliver a market-leading product range that provides the highest possible level of ballistic protection to our customers.