Exelis reports it has expanded its product line through the licensing of patented manufacturing technology from Belgium-based Bodair S.A.

The licensed technology will allow Exelis to produce composite struts, tubes and rods for commercial and military aircraft.

"The newly acquired technology provides Exelis with a competitive advantage as the aerospace industry continues to expand the use of composites looking for new opportunities to reduce the weight of aircraft," said Mike Blair, vice president and general manager of Exelis Aerostructures. "The STaR (struts, tubes and rods) product line offers customers significant weight savings without compromising strength and durability.

"The combination of the unique manufacturing process and automation technology positions us to meet the market demands with the ability to produce upward of 40,000 STaR parts per year."

Exelis said among the composite hardware components it will produce will be floor beam and wing box struts, control rods and torque tubes.

Details of the licensing agreement with BODAIR S.A. were not disclosed.