Warwickshire-based precision engineering specialist ANT Industries is proud to be part of one of the most dynamic aerospace regions in the world — a region that continues to lead the way in innovation, manufacturing, and the development of future flight technologies. With a 17% share of the global aerospace market, the UK remains a powerhouse for high-value manufacturing. And nowhere is this more evident than in Coventry and Warwickshire — the birthplace of the jet engine and home to a thriving ecosystem of aerospace companies, research centres, and advanced engineering expertise.
“You only need to look around Coventry and Warwickshire to see the depth of aerospace capability here,” says Shaun Rowley, Managing Director of ANT Industries. “We’ve got OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, and world-class R&D institutions all working within a few miles of each other. It’s an incredible environment for innovation and collaboration.”
The region is home to over 3,500 transport technology businesses, employing more than 52,000 people across aerospace, automotive, and advanced manufacturing. Global brands such as Rolls-Royce, Meggitt, and Lisi Aerospace operate alongside a strong network of local specialists including Nasmyth, Arrowsmith, JJ Churchill, Sigma, and ANT Industries itself who manufacture high-precision rings, casings, and prismatic components for aerospace and gas turbine engines.
At Ansty Park, Rolls-Royce maintains major facilities for manufacturing, servicing, and research — including the High Temperature Research Centre (HTRC), a £60 million collaboration with the University of Birmingham focused on casting, simulation, and advanced manufacturing. The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) and Aerospace Research Centre nearby bring together industry and academia to develop the next generation of aerospace technologies.
“This region has an infrastructure that’s genuinely world-class,” Rowley continues. “When you combine the R&D strength of Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG), the MTC, and Coventry University with the skills base coming through local training academies, you’ve got a complete ecosystem that supports the entire aerospace supply chain — from concept and design to precision manufacture.”
Coventry and Warwickshire’s aerospace community benefits from strong local networks such as the Coventry & Warwickshire Aerospace Forum (CWAF) and the Midlands Aerospace Alliance (MAA) — both headquartered in the area and representing hundreds of member companies. These organisations drive collaboration across the sector, connecting SMEs like ANT Industries with OEMs and research partners.
“The level of collaboration here is second to none,” says Rowley. “Through groups like the MAA and CWAF, companies of all sizes can share knowledge, feed into innovation projects, and raise the bar on capability. That spirit of partnership is what keeps the Midlands at the forefront of global aerospace.” The region also boasts an unrivalled education and training pipeline. Between Coventry University, the University of Warwick, and specialist institutions such as the WMG Academy for Young Engineers and the Lloyds Bank Advanced Manufacturing Training Centre, there are over 54,000 students and 100,000 graduates a year within an hour’s drive — many focused on advanced manufacturing, materials, and design.
“Skills are everything in this industry,” Rowley explains. “As aerospace technology evolves — with lightweighting, electrification, and digital manufacturing — we need people with the right expertise. The local education ecosystem gives us access to a constant stream of talent, which is absolutely vital for companies like ours.” Founded in Atherstone, Warwickshire, ANT Industries has a long heritage of precision machining and component manufacture for the aerospace and gas turbine sectors. The company supplies engine and airframe components to major aerospace primes and Tier 1 suppliers around the world.
“Our success has always been built on precision, reliability, and a deep understanding of what our customers need,” says Rowley. “Being based in Warwickshire gives us access to exceptional skills, supply chain partners, and research collaboration — everything we need to keep developing and competing globally.” As the UK looks ahead to the next era of aerospace — from sustainable propulsion systems to advanced manufacturing processes — the Coventry and Warwickshire region continues to stand out as a hub of excellence.
“This is one of the best places in the world to be in aerospace,” Rowley concludes. “There’s history here, there’s innovation, and there’s a genuine sense of momentum. The future of flight is being shaped right here in our region — and we’re proud to be part of it.”