Press Release

Fourth Industrial Revolution in Practice: Aero Implements Cutting-Edge IT Systems for Digitization and Management

Vodochody, September 5, 2024 – AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE is entering a new era of digitization with the implementation of state-of-the-art IT systems, marking a significant step in managing all processes and digitizing production. The company is joining the so-called Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0), which digitalizes manufacturing processes, enabling smart production and the creation of intelligent factories. This technological innovation will bring significant improvements to Aero in all key areas – from product development, through planning and manufacturing, to the supply chain.

“We have decided on one of the largest IT investments in Aero’s history. We are acquiring the best corporate information systems available and simultaneously implementing a product lifecycle management system,” said Viktor Sotona, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Aero. “This significant investment is a key step towards digitalization, future growth, and enhancing our company’s competitiveness. We are deploying systems that enable Industry 4.0 management.”

Following a tender process, Aero has selected two cutting-edge IT systems to be delivered and integrated by InfoConsulting together with Siemens. The company has chosen an ERP solution from IFS, a Swedish company with significant references from leading global players in the aerospace industry such as Saab Group and Lockheed Martin, and a PLM solution from Siemens, a world leader in industry standard setting that counts Boeing and BAE Systems among its clients.

The integration of IFS Cloud and Teamcenter will bring digitization to all main areas of Aero. It will increase productivity, efficiency, and flexibility, and also allow for more advanced decision-making and adaptation of manufacturing and supply operations. The project is a key part of the company’s digitalization strategy.

IFS Cloud: Digital Transformation of the Enterprise Resource Planning System (ERP)

IFS Cloud was selected for its ability to cover a broad range of processes that are critical to Aero. This digital system will deliver:

  • Fully digitized planning and production management: IFS Cloud will provide a detailed digital overview of capacities and resources, leading to better resource utilization and optimization of production processes.
  • Digitalization of purchasing and supply processes: Advanced digital tools for managing purchasing processes and supplier relationships will ensure a smooth flow of materials and components, minimizing the risk of delays and increasing efficiency.
  • Improved digital financial and project management: The system will provide precise digital tools for tracking costs, revenues, and profitability of individual projects, supporting better financial planning and decision-making.

Teamcenter: Digitalization of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM)

Teamcenter from Siemens is a key tool for the digital management of product lifecycles. This system will provide the following digital benefits:

  • Fully digital integration of 3D CAD models and manufacturing processes: Teamcenter will enable efficient digital management of all design changes and their immediate implementation in production, ensuring maximum consistency and accuracy throughout the process.
  • Improved digital collaboration between teams: Thanks to centralized digital data management, communication between development, production, and purchasing departments will be faster and more efficient, speeding up the development and launch of new products.
  • Higher quality and digital control of changes: The system will enable rigorous digital tracking of product versions, variants, and configurations, ensuring that all changes are carefully managed and documented.

Industry 4.0: The Fourth Industrial Revolution involves integrating intelligent digital technologies into manufacturing and industrial processes. It encompasses technologies such as industrial IoT networks, artificial intelligence, big data, robotics, and automation. Industry 4.0 enables smart manufacturing and the creation of intelligent factories.

AERO Vodochody AEROSPACE a.s. specializes in the development, production, maintenance, and modernization of civilian and military aircraft and is the largest aircraft manufacturer in the Czech Republic and one of the oldest aircraft manufacturers in the world. Aero is a long-term partner to various military air forces and holds a strong position in the market for military training and light combat aircraft. With 11,000 aircraft produced over its 100-year history, hundreds of L-39 Albatros aircraft still in use by numerous military operators and demo teams, and especially with its new L-39NG aircraft, Aero is a leader in the global jet training aircraft market. In the civil aviation sector, Aero collaborates with the largest aircraft manufacturers on a wide range of projects and is a partner in several risk-sharing programs, where it is responsible not only for the production and assembly of aircraft components but also for their development.

Contact:
Radka Černá, PR & Communications Manager
Email: radka.cerna@aero
Mobile: +420 608 974 258
www.aero.cz

Facebook: @aerovodochody
X: @AERO_Vodochody
LinkedIn: @Aero-vodochody-aerospace-a.s.