Today the company's 150-strong workforce in Reading, Berkshire, continues to play an important role in the Eurofighter Typhoon programme, supplying its global fleet with a range of specialist components.
On Typhoon, these include anti-vibration mounts to protect digital engine control units and avionics when the jet's performance subjects it to forces of 9G, nine times the normal gravitational pull of the Earth, and speeds of twice the speed of sound.
And whilst its components provide a critical safety role in the jets which operate with air forces across the world, Hutchinson has also developed a range of equipment of aircraft simulators which are now used by a wide range of aerospace operators.
These systems, borne out of Hutchinson’s initial work on the Typhoon simulator, are used for pilot and operator training and accurately mimic the real life installations including identical illumination and tactile accuracy.
The capability we deliver continues to develop, in the same way the aircraft never stops developing, and that gives us even more opportunities to continue to grow together.Simon Cross, Hutchinson UK
Simon Cross, Hutchinson UK sales representative based explains: “We design and manufacture specific anti-vibration solutions that keep the aircraft safe.
“The solutions we have delivered through our work on Typhoon are now used throughout the aerospace and defence industries to protect sensitive electronics and avionics from engine vibration and emergency events such as turbine fan blade off.
“Our experienced technical engineers work closely with our customers to define the most suitable solutions and we continually invest in new technologies and advanced manufacturing processes.”
Simon added that its work as a partner with BAE Systems on Typhoon over more than three decades has provided the company with numerous other opportunities including the chance to work on Tempest, the partnership developing a future combat air system for the UK.
He says: “We’ve people here who have been working on the Eurofighter Typhoon programme for more than 30 years and have seen it progress and the opportunities it has delivered to help us grow our partnership.
“The capability we deliver continues to develop, in the same way the aircraft never stops developing, and that gives us even more opportunities to continue to grow together.
“The future is looking good and the collaboration which is at the heart of the programme is continuing. There is much more to come.”
Industrial impact of Typhoon on supply chain businesses across the UK
Hutchinson is a prime example of the reach and impact the Typhoon project has on communities across the UK, as highlighted in a report by research group Oxford Economics.
It shows the programme secures more than 20,000 highly-skilled jobs across a supply chain which reaches every corner of the United Kingdom and contributes £1.6 billion to the economy each year.
In the South East alone, 2,230 workers, including those at Hutchinson in Berkshire, are supported by the programme.
Join us We are recruiting for thousands of roles from engineers to procurement professionals within our businesses. Search and apply below.