Radia has strengthened its WindRunner programme by signing new supplier agreements with aerospace companies Latecoere and Stirling Dynamics, further expanding the industrial network behind what is expected to become the world’s largest cargo aircraft.
Announced ahead of the Farnborough International Airshow, the partnerships represent another step forward in the development of WindRunner, a next-generation aircraft designed to transport oversized cargo that cannot be moved efficiently using today’s conventional freighters.
With these new agreements, Radia continues to assemble a global network of specialised partners that will support every stage of the programme, from engineering and certification to manufacturing and future operations.
Latecoere will be responsible for supporting the development of the aircraft’s Electrical Wiring Interconnection System (EWIS), a critical component that connects and powers onboard electrical equipment. The company will draw on decades of experience in aircraft electrical systems, aerostructures and industrial manufacturing gained through both commercial and defence aviation programmes.
Sam Marnick, President Americas at Latecoere, described WindRunner as one of the most ambitious aerospace projects currently under development. He said the company is pleased to contribute its expertise in electrical systems integration, adding that the aircraft’s size and technical complexity create significant opportunities for innovation and collaboration across the aerospace industry.
Radia has also selected Stirling Dynamics to support the integration of the aircraft’s flight control systems. The company will provide expertise in flight controls, simulation technologies and aircraft engineering to help ensure the aircraft operates safely, efficiently and reliably.
Bandula Pathinayake, Vice President of Stirling Dynamics, said WindRunner has the potential to redefine oversized air cargo transport. He noted that the company looks forward to contributing its experience in flight control systems and engineering as the programme moves into its next development phase.
According to Radia, the addition of Latecoere and Stirling Dynamics reinforces critical areas of the aircraft’s development while helping establish the long-term industrial foundation needed to bring the programme to market.
The company believes WindRunner will play a major role in transporting oversized equipment for industries including defence, renewable energy, aerospace, commercial logistics and humanitarian operations.
The two companies become the latest members of WindRunner’s growing supplier network, which now includes more than 20 technology and aerospace partners. Existing collaborators include AFuzion, Aciturri, Aernnova, Akaer, Astronautics Corporation of America, Atitech, Element Materials Technology, Ingenium Technologies, Leonardo and MAGROUP Magnaghi Aerospace.
As development progresses, Radia says it will continue adding specialised partners capable of accelerating the programme while building the industrial ecosystem required to support the aircraft throughout its operational life.
