ITP Aero has gained full ownership of Rolls-Royce’s former site at Hucknall in the East Midlands region of the UK.

The commodity of complex fabrications, including design engineering and supply chain management, will be transferred into ITP Aero.

ITP Aero said the products manufactured in Hucknall, which include fabrications, combustors and fan outlet guide vanes (OGVs), are complementary to those manufactured in its other facilities, and will add to the company’s product portfolio.

The engines company said it hoped the enlarged business potential would yield new business opportunities.

The integration of Hucknall into ITP Aero adds approximately 700 employees to the company’s global workforce.

“Today’s announcement is a major milestone for ITP Aero, as Hucknall becomes a critical part of the company’s enlarged business,” said ITP Aero’s CEO Carlos Alzola. “We are looking forward to working together with our new colleagues in Hucknall, focusing on maximising opportunities and recovering together from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.”

The integration does not impact Rolls-Royce’s previously-announced intention to pursue a potential disposal of ITP Aero. Notwithstanding the outcome, Rolls-Royce said ITP Aero would remain “a key partner” and the pair’s long-term relationship would continue.

The Hucknall site is known for its contributions to the aviation industry. During the Second World War, the site was the location of the first flight of the Merlin Engine-powered P-51 Mustang and the setting for the development of vertical take-off jets, first tested in 1954.