

Transforming Aerospace Factories – Smart Manufacturing in A&D Ep. 1
6 snips Mar 21, 2025
Todd Tuthill, Vice President of Aerospace, Defense, and Marine for Siemens Digital Industries Software, discusses the exciting transformation in aerospace manufacturing. He highlights the demand for higher production volumes, particularly with the rise of drones. The conversation covers the challenges the industry faces, from design complexities to adapting manufacturing processes. Todd also explores how automation is revolutionizing production efficiency and cost reduction, paving the way for a new era in aerospace and defense.
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Drone Use Cases
- Drones deliver pizzas, showcasing automation's rise in everyday life.
- Zipline's drones deliver vital blood supplies, significantly reducing maternal deaths in Rwanda.
Boeing's Autonomous Drone
- Boeing's MQ-25 drone autonomously lands on aircraft carriers.
- This feat, previously considered extremely difficult for human pilots, highlights the growing sophistication of drone technology.
Shift to Drones in 6th Gen Aircraft
- Sixth-generation aircraft will likely incorporate more drones to replace some crewed aircraft capabilities.
- This shift necessitates changes in manufacturing technology, moving from touch labor to automation.