101267Novel application of LFW to enable near net shape forming of components. v4ClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKAn applied research project led by GKN Aerospace, supported by Thompson and University of Bimingham, taking an existing joining technique Linear Friction Welding (LFW), and applying it in a novel way to achieve near net shape forming of hard and soft metals, resulting in a step-change in UK manufacturing competitiveness. This approach enables significantly reduced raw material requirement and machining time/cost, delivering a much improved 'Buy to Fly' ratio and environmental sustainabilty. Environmental benefits will be achieved through the whole supply chain from reduced energy used during material supply and part manufacture. This advanced manufacturing technology will enable high value cost efficient environmentally beneficial manuf. to be exploited in the UK in an increasingly competitive global market.