Strata wins offset deal with Pilatus and a manufacturing first for UAE

PC-24 – the world’s first Super Versatile Jet.

Under the seven-year agreement, Pilatus is awarding Strata three additional work packages for the PC-24 – the world’s ‘first Super Versatile Jet:’ two for autoclave manufacturing, of pylon fairings, bullet fairings and tail cones, and one, for the first time in the UAE, to manufacture aerospace class hot press composite parts.
The agreement is a fulfilment of the Tawazun Economic Program’s obligation that aims to generate high economic value and create social and strategic benefits to the UAE.
The agreement was signed by Matar Ali Al Romaithi, Tawazun’s chief economic development officer, Ismail Ali Abdullah, CEO of Strata Manufacturing, and Johan van Nieuwenhuizen, director of industrial participation for Pilatus.
Strata has previously entered into partnerships with global leading aircraft manufacturers including Boeing and Airbus. Its contract with Pilatus is now set to enhance its position as a major contributor to global value chains by offering “Made with Pride in UAE” products.
Al Romaithi said: "The success in the production of PC-24 belly fairing and the progresses we are having on the PC-24 flap track fairings clearly demonstrates the capabilities and performance of Strata."
Ismail Ali Abdulla, CEO of Strata said that the extended agreement marks the next step in a long-term partnership aimed at delivering further high quality composite work packages for Pilatus in the UAE.
“Pilatus is a key customer of our global partner network and the expanded agreement highlights Strata’s advanced technological capabilities in the global aerospace supply chain – including our ‘Made with Pride in the UAE’ components. It also highlights the confidence Pilatus has in Strata’s manufacturing abilities and excellent delivery record, which we have continued to exceed year-on-year during our 10-year history of pioneering the UAE’s aero structures manufacturing sector.”
Roman Emmenegger, Pilatus’ VP of manufacturing, said: “Pilatus is committed to further strengthen our relationship with the UAE which dates back over 30 years supporting the UAE Air Force with our PC-21 and PC-7 training aircraft, and the creation of aerospace centres of excellence with major players such as Strata."
Last year, Tawazun Economic Council announced a series of changes to the Tawazun Economic Program through which foreign and local investments are channelled into key sectors of the economy. The new program is invested in enhancing and uplifting its features in order to improve its overall effectiveness in supporting key strategic UAE government objectives, while also creating more value for its partners, the defence contractors.
It also allows for the development of technology-driven solutions that extend beyond the defence and security industry.

*How important is offset to Middle East manufacturing – see Newsround 05 on TATV for an exclusive interview