Russian rocket engine maker hits business afterburner with SAP

The company also expects to optimise production planning, and gain better insight into resource utilisation and profitability. Proton-PM, which employs 4,400, produces propulsion units for a variety of aircraft, including the Proton carrier rockets, and components and parts for RD-191 rocket engines for the new family of Angara space-launch carrier rockets. To support this project and ongoing conversion of former military production sites into civilian use, the company says it is ramping up its manufacturing capacity and integrating new technologies. Igor Arbuzov, director general of Proton-Perm Motors, OJSC, says the company wanted a single, automated information system to improve its ERP, manufacturing and HR processes. It also needed to strengthen ties with existing and potential business partners, and to expand its product portfolio. Arbuzov says that, with SAP Business Suite applications, Proton-PM will free itself of the restrictions of its existing automated information systems, while also cutting stock by 20% and shortening its production cycle by 15%. "These days, public enterprises of our calibre need world-class information technologies. Integration of SAP solutions turns out to be not only a strong optimisation project, aimed at securing financial stability, but also an efficient tool to enhance our company's reliability with the help of the best global business management practices," states Arbuzov. The three-stage rollout is scheduled to begin in November.