Being part of the aerospace and defense industry means seizing the opportunity of a fast-growing market. Yet, this momentum comes with a double challenge: ramping up production while maintaining operational excellence. The cornerstone of this equation is industrial maturity. The goal is not only to produce more—but to produce better, more smoothly, more predictively, and more resiliently. Achieving this standard of excellence requires a systemic approach that blends various methodologies, digital tools, and change management.
Building an integrated and agile supply chain
A high-performing supply chain depends on its ability to synchronize information, material, and decision flows. This means ensuring seamless integration across the entire industrial lifecycle—from upstream procurement to downstream logistics and manufacturing operations. By industrializing supplier management, optimizing resource planning, and streamlining distribution channels, companies build the foundation for sustainable performance, even during load increases.
This orchestration calls for strong leadership capabilities. This is where approaches like Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP), combined with scenario simulation tools, become critical. They help manage complexity, anticipate risks, and enable informed, data-driven decision-making.
A controlled, step-by-step path to maturity
Excellence cannot be just created out of thin air; it must be built gradually, through continuous improvement and alignment of industrial processes with business objectives. Maturity models provide a framework to assess gaps, prioritize improvement initiatives, and measure results over time.
This is also a human journey: progressing toward maturity means developing team skills, structuring expertise, and cultivating a culture of continuous improvement that permeates the organization.
Merging operational expertise with digital technologies
Industrial excellence increasingly relies on the combination of hands-on know-how and digital innovation. Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES), digital twins, automation, and AI applied to planning or maintenance are all tools that enhance responsiveness, control, and traceability.
Yet these technologies only deliver value when grounded in real operational needs. Digital transformation must serve industrial agility—not the other way around.
A lasting competitive edge
In a post-crisis recovery context, amid global supply chain disruptions and tighter delivery schedules, the ability to secure ramp-up capabilities is becoming a decisive advantage. For prime contractors, it’s no longer just about choosing suppliers—but building long-term, trusted partnerships.
By investing in industrial maturity, organizations strengthen their resilience, increase flexibility, and ensure their place in tomorrow’s key programs.
We will share our expertise in supply chain and manufacturing at the 55th International Paris Air Show – Le Bourget 2025. Come and meet us to find out more!
