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- Cautiously optimistic.
That is how GPV chief executive Bo Lybæk describes the company’s recent return to the defence sector. The initial focus is on supplying customers in European countries where GPV already operates production facilities.
- It is the easiest place to start because European countries are still very national in their procurement, Lybæk says, adding that he hopes defence procurement will become more integrated at the European level over time.
Advertisement65 years of experience
With Nordic production in Denmark and Finland, GPV is a global electronics manufacturing services (EMS) partner with more than 65 years of experience.
After more than a decade away from the sector, the company decided last year to re-enter defence despite the challenges involved. Orders have now begun to arrive from both Danish and other European defence customers.
Among them is the production of GPV-developed mobile tank stations - mobile refuelling units - which will be manufactured at the company’s Danish facility in Aars.
AdvertisementSeveral additional defence contracts have also been placed with the plant, although GPV cannot disclose the customers involved.
Certification central to defence work
Defence projects will be distributed across several GPV factories and typically involve large programmes with long delivery timelines. According to Lybæk, securing defence customers requires significant preparation.
Customers do not simply walk in off the street.
Bo Lybæk, CEO, CPV
- Customers do not simply walk in off the street. These contracts are not given - you have to earn them.
AdvertisementIn many cases, this requires AS9100 certification. The standard confirms that a facility meets strict requirements for traceability and quality assurance and is widely required for suppliers to the defence and aerospace sectors.
- It is a real must-have if you want to compete, Lybæk says, adding that 2026 will largely be focused on securing AS9100 certification.
AS9100
AS9100 was developed specifically for the aviation, space and defence industries. It sets requirements for quality management systems with a focus on the safe development, production and distribution of aerospace parts and products.
AS9100 builds on ISO 9001 but includes stricter requirements.
AS9100 certification opens access to new business opportunities, as many major original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and other actors in the supply chain require their suppliers to hold this certification.
Companies that obtain certification are included in the International Aerospace Quality Group’s (IAQG) Online Aerospace Supplier Information System (OASIS) database.
Source: IAQG, NQA
Certification is granted through a series of audits at the relevant factories. While the process can be complex, Lybæk believes GPV’s experience with other highly specialised industries will help.
- We have previously held AS9100 certification, so we understand what it involves. We also have IRIS – the International Railway Industry Standard. Although it is not the same, it means we already have relevant experience and capabilities, he says.
GPV also plans to share expertise between quality control specialists across its factories as part of the certification process.
AdvertisementEarnings outlook improves
GPV recently presented its annual report, showing revenue of just under DKK 9 billion.
Revenue in 2026 is expected to remain broadly in line with last year, while earnings are forecast to increase. EBITDA is projected to reach between DKK 690 million and DKK 750 million.
The company employs more than 7,500 people.
This article was first published in Defence Nordics’ affiliate publication, Electronic Supply.
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