EADS is aiming to source 30% of its turnover from the Asia-Pacific region in about a decade. Asia-Pacific business accounted for 7% of EADS's sales in 2002. The company says it foresees 20% of its sales to come from the region within the next five years, growing to 30% by 2015.
During Asian Aerospace, EADS signed an agreement with Singapore's Economic Development Board to jointly study the establishment of a research and technology centre in the country.
EADS joint chief executive Philippe Camus says the manufacturer is seeking to expand both its civil and defence business in the area. Around 580 Airbus aircraft are in operation in the region, while EADS turboprop unit ATR has 88 aircraft with Asian airlines."
EADS is offering participation in the Airbus Military A400M transport and intends to make "attractive" work packages available in return for early commitment to the aircraft, Camus adds.
Source: Flight International