3.2.2015: STI announced a "a definitive agreement for the acquisition of Airbus Defence and Space’s Poynton factory and the majority of its employees by STI. The Poynton site – 12 miles from Manchester city centre – was a part of the Terminals and Products activity of Airbus Defence and Space, producing microwave components and naval terminals for fixed and mobile communications. Going forward, its primary responsibilities will be the management of the spares and repairs activity for the terminals of the Skynet 5 satellite communications system. Airbus Defence and Space remains as prime contractor under the contract for the UK MOD." (STI website)