85 Years of Achievement

Founded more than 85 years ago, Curtiss-Wright traces its heritage to three of our nation’s preeminent aviation pioneers. Glenn Curtiss and Orville and Wilbur Wright successfully launched companies in the early 20th century to tap into the burgeoning aeronautics market. In 1929, the companies founded by these three great aviation pioneers, the Curtiss Aeroplane and Motor Company and Wright Aeronautical Corporation, merged to form the largest aircraft company at the time, Curtiss-Wright Corporation.

Over the next two decades and through World War II, Curtiss-Wright maintained its industry leadership, including launching the P-36 fighter and building more than 13,700 P-40 fighters used by the air forces of 28 countries. In the ensuing decades, Curtiss-Wright expanded from mechanical components into sophisticated electronics, including sensor and mission management systems, as well as high-performance valves and plant equipment for naval nuclear reactors, and complex shot peening to extend the life and improve the performance of highly stressed components operating across a broad spectrum of industries.

Built on a historic legacy of excellence and ingenuity, Curtiss-Wright is today a recognized industry leader in support of global aerospace, power generation, naval and ground defense, and other demanding markets. Going forward in the 21st century, operating as One Curtiss-Wright, our team is dedicated to creating new value for our customers, employees and shareholders.

 

Wright Flyer

Orville seated in Wright airplane with Albert B. Lambert before takeoff

Orville and Wilbur Wright, renowned for history’s first flight, and Glenn Curtiss, the father of naval aviation

Curtiss NC-4

Curtiss P-40 Warhawk

F-35 Lightning II