Bengaluru, Feb 18 (IANS): Global aircraft manufacturer Boeing Wednesday announced that it has signed a multi-year contract with Bharat Forge for supply of wing components for the next-generation 737 and 737 MAX planes.

"We are pleased to welcome Bharat Forge into our supply chain as they have an impressive record of performance across many industries," said Kent Fisher, vice president and general manager, supplier management, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

"Our discussions with Bharat Forge leading up to this agreement have demonstrated not only a high level of technical expertise, but also an understanding of the need to meet aviation market requirements for affordability," Fisher added.

According to the aircraft manufacturer, under the agreement, Bharat Forge will begin supply of pre-machined forgings from its facilities in Pune and Baramati to Boeing in the first quarter of 2016.

The company said the titanium parts will be heat-treated, shaped in a forging press, and machined by Bharat Forge before being shipped to Boeing Portland for finish machining into components.

The company added that the new contract reinforces Boeing's supply chain strategy to expand its forging supply base through partnering with high performance companies like Bharat Forge.

"This reduces risk and introduces new players into our supply chain to ensure capacity and competitive cost," Fisher added.