Dassault Aviation Launches Innovative Manufacturing Center in Cergy
Dassault Aviation has officially launched its new manufacturing facility in Cergy, situated to the north of Paris, marking the company’s first new production site since the 1970s. The inauguration ceremony on September 23 was graced by Éric Trappier, the Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, along with local and regional officials.
The new establishment replaces Dassault’s previous operations in Argenteuil, forming part of a restructuring initiative that began in 2019. Construction of this modern facility commenced in 2021 and was finalized in July 2024. The transition of staff and equipment from Argenteuil has been underway since the summer and is expected to conclude by January 2025. Currently, the Cergy premises house over 600 engineers and technicians.
A Focus on Sustainability and Efficiency
Covering more than 110,000 square meters, the Cergy facility boasts nearly 40,000 square meters dedicated to production. It showcases a solar-powered roof aimed at reducing energy expenditure, coupled with a sophisticated ventilation system and smart lighting. These features, along with integrated green spaces, underscore the company’s commitment to eco-friendliness.
Specialized Production for Falcon and Rafale Aircraft
The Cergy plant is primarily dedicated to assembling skin panels and complex small components for both the Falcon business jets and Rafale fighter aircraft. This strategic move allows the Seclin plant to focus on main small-parts production, optimizing the manufacturing process for both civilian and military projects. The new facility is designed to meet the growing demand from ongoing Rafale contracts and Falcon shipments.
Commitment to French Industry
According to Éric Trappier, the Cergy facility signifies a crucial step in safeguarding and enhancing France’s unique aerospace expertise. “France possesses a distinct capability that we must preserve and develop within our borders,” Trappier remarked. “This is a matter of sovereignty… It is also an economic and social imperative, to address the challenge of reindustrializing our country and creating jobs.”
The new site is a long-term investment that fortifies Dassault’s industrial presence in France and is expected to play a pivotal role in future Falcon and Rafale projects for both domestic and global markets.
