China’s Jet Has German Legs

German aerospace supplier Liebherr developed the landing-gear system for China’s C919 at its Lindenberg operation in Germany. The company is now building a Shanghai factory for high-strength steel landing-gear components.

The planned factory will combine precision machining with surface treatment. It will produce components including outer cylinders and piston rods. Construction began in July 2026.

The project brings German supplier expertise closer to Chinese aircraft manufacturer COMAC. Similar partnerships are developing in robotics: Asiabits introduced German automotive supplier KOSTAL to Daimon Robotics during a China visit. Two weeks later, the companies agreed on a joint proof of concept.

Read the KOSTAL–Daimon story →

Sources: Liebherr: C919 entry into service; Liebherr: Shanghai factory groundbreaking.

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