The aerospace and defense (A&D) industry is poised to benefit from a surge in global commercial demand, along with the advent of new technologies, government acquisition reform and the use of analytics to manage “big data.” At the same time, manufacturers and suppliers face a number of challenges, including stricter regulations and the uncertainties that characterize the defense sector.

The aerospace and defense (A&D) industry is experiencing a prolonged surge in growth. Factors include robust demand in new and emerging markets, as well as increased exports of military equipment. Along with these promising new opportunities, however, comes a fresh set of supply-chain challenges.