Marc Rivière is Global Advisor Aerospace & Defense at PTC and has more than 30 years of experience in aerospace, including 22 years with the French Air Force. After completing his engineering studies at the École de l'Air et de l'Espace and his master's degree at the French ISAE-SUPAERO, he took on management roles in major aerospace programs. he was Program Director at the Operational Test and Evaluation Center in Mont de Marsan. He managed the A400M Program ILS Development. His expertise spans digital thread, digital twin, and AI. Among other things, he develops solutions for the aerospace industry.
The global aerospace and defense (A&D) industry is at a critical juncture. With a rising demand for ultra-efficient aircraft, new-age autonomous systems, and sustainable aviation technologies, A&D manufacturers are tasked with delivering cutting-edge software-defined systems faster than ever. However, the increasing complexity of product development cycles, disconnected engineering systems, and stringent compliance requirements create significant hurdles in outpacing competition.
Why aerospace companies need speed in product development
Meeting market demands
The demand for next-gen aerospace systems is skyrocketing, driven by increased air travel, environmental goals, and military modernization. Whether it’s faster fighter jets or zero-emission aircraft, manufacturers are under immense pressure to deliver new innovations quickly, while ensuring quality and compliance.
Challenges in aerospace product development
Fast-tracking product development is no small feat. Aerospace engineering presents unique challenges, such as:
- Interoperability: From propulsion engines to embedded software, A&D products include intricate designs with multiple interdependent systems that must seamlessly work together
- Regulatory compliance: Rigorous international standards, including FAA and EASA requirements, add complexity to the development process
- Legacy systems: Many companies rely on outdated tools that fail to keep up with the needs of modern engineering workflows
- Multidisciplinary collaboration: Effective coordination is needed between mechanical, electrical, and software teams, yet siloed operations often create bottlenecks
The speed of digital engineering
Digital engineering tools are transforming the way A&D products are developed by seamlessly connecting data, teams, and workflows. These solutions enable aerospace engineering teams to overcome the above challenges and bring innovative products to market faster.
At the Paris Air Lab of the 2025 55th International Paris Air Show, digitalization strategies and AI took center stage. Here’s how an integrated engineering toolchain can speed development cycles in your organization:
Streamlined collaboration
A digital thread connects multidisciplinary engineering teams, allowing software and hardware developers to work concurrently rather than sequentially, while a shared platform eliminates silos, reduces communication breakdowns, and enables agile product development.
End-to-end traceability
Advanced ALM and PLM solutions ensure end-to-end data management, providing complete traceability of product requirements, designs, and testing outcomes to reduce errors and delays.
Real-time simulation and validation
Simulation-driven design allows teams to test and optimize product designs earlier in the development process, significantly shortening development timelines.
Compliance made seamless
Digital traceability helps integrate compliance measures at every stage of the product lifecycle, enabling automated reporting and reducing the risk of noncompliance.
Real-world impact of digital engineering in aerospace
Digital engineering solutions are reshaping the way aerospace products are developed, built, and sustained, enabling faster timelines and groundbreaking innovation. This transition is exemplified by Hill Helicopters, which uses PTC’s next-gen CAD and PLM solutions to transform their product development cycles. Visitors at the 2025 Paris Air Show had the opportunity to experience how Hill Helicopters leverages these solutions to design and manage data for their luxury private helicopters. Through streamlined collaboration, end-to-end traceability, and real-time validation, these solutions empower leading aerospace companies like Hill Helicopters to accelerate innovation and improve efficiency. The manufacturer’s ability to develop advanced, sleek designs while maintaining top-tier safety and performance serves as a prime example of how digital engineering drives faster product development and positions A&D organizations for long-term success in a competitive market.
Take off faster with digital solutions
Speed and agility have never been more critical for A&D manufacturers. With a surge of groundbreaking concepts in R&D—from autonomous aircraft systems and advanced air mobility solutions like eVTOLs to miniaturized satellites and reusable launchers—the stakes have never been higher. Manufacturers that achieve faster market entry not only secure a competitive edge but also gain unparalleled opportunities for visibility, recognition, and strategic partnerships.
The innovations showcased at the Paris Air Show serve as a reminder that the future of A&D depends on adopting cutting-edge digital engineering practices. If you’re ready to accelerate your product development, PTC's ALM and PLM solutions are designed to help you integrate advanced digital engineering practices into your workflows, enabling you to stay ahead in a competitive market.
Ready for takeoff?
Feeling the pressure to deliver smarter, safer aerospace systems—all at the speed of relevance? Discover how PTC’s digital solutions can help you overcome complexity, streamline collaboration, and meet compliance with confidence.
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