The ARA is a centre of excellence delivering advanced aerodynamic capabilities to the aviation sector, supporting the development of innovative, high-performance air systems. As part of BAE Systems FalconWorks within the Air sector, the organisation combines specialist aerodynamic expertise with a strong culture of innovation and technical excellence.
ARA benefits from the agility and focus of a specialist team while also drawing on the extensive engineering knowledge, resources, and multidisciplinary expertise available across the wider BAE Systems organisation. This unique position enables the delivery of cutting-edge aerodynamic solutions that support the future of aviation and advanced air capability development.
Design & Manufacture
ARA delivers specialist aerodynamic engineering capabilities including CAD, precision model manufacture, inspection, FEA, and strain gauge balance design for advanced wind tunnel testing.
With extensive cryogenic and conventional wind tunnel expertise, ARA provides high-precision solutions built to the highest standards of quality and performance.
Computational Aerodynamics
ARA provides advanced CFD development, aerodynamic consultancy, structural simulation, and high-performance computing capabilities to support complex engineering challenges. Through innovative research and collaboration with industry, academia, and government partners, ARA delivers high-quality aerodynamic design and performance solutions.
Experimental Aerodynamics
ARA delivers world-class aerodynamic testing capabilities across stability and control, propulsion simulation, store separation, intake performance, and advanced flow visualisation. Drawing on decades of civil and military aviation expertise, ARA provides highly specialised wind tunnel testing and measurement solutions to support next-generation aircraft performance and safety.
Policies & Certificates
Aircraft Research Association is a Centre of Excellence in Fluid Dynamics. It offers the complementary services of Computational Aerodynamics, Wind Tunnel Model Design and Manufacture, Experimental Aerodynamics and related Technology and Services.
This combined service enables it to provide specialist input and high value to civil and military aerospace and related market projects from the early design concept stages, right through to upgrades of in-service capability.
Our Quality, Health and Safety and Environmental policies have been developed and endorsed by the Leadership Management team.