Airbus is considering enlarging Russian manufacturer Verkhnaya Salda Metallurgical Production Association's (VSMPO) share in titanium supply, from its current level of 55%, as the European manufacturer increases its collaboration with Russian aerospace firms. Rival Russian Aluminum could also potentially take a 30-40% share in Airbus aluminum supply from 2006, if the manufacturer gains certification of its entire range. Russian Aluminum hopes the collaboration will lead to funding for its research into advanced materials. Airbus will evaluate several other manufacturers, including Aviacor, Aviastar and IAPO, to add to subcontractors it has already approved, such as Sokol and Gidromash.
Source: Flight International