The final-assembly layer - the primes that integrate structures, engines and electronics into a complete flying platform and deliver the finished aircraft or system.
Why it matters
This is the layer where all upstream components converge into a sellable end-product, and it's the natural home for this sector's end-manufacturer/integrator revenue.
Where the value pool sits
Primes capture the largest absolute contract values and own the customer relationship, but for diversified conglomerates aerospace/defence is often a minority segment that dilutes the pure-play exposure.
A small number of unlisted names (e.g. TASL) and very recently listed ones (Sigma Advanced) hold meaningful integration programmes with little public financial history
Investor metrics to watch
Programme-level order book and delivery-schedule adherence
Segment-level disclosure of aerospace/defence revenue where available
New platform wins and export order announcements
Related layers
Precision Machining, Composites & Aerostructures
Avionics, Electronics, RF/Microwave & Mission Systems