It has since evolved away from final assembly of finished aircraft, becoming a component manufacturer specializing in actuators, aircraft controls, valves, and metal treatment.

So four years ago, he started writing letters to component manufacturers asking if they would simply donate parts instead.

It was the sharpest drop since the huge earthquake and subsequent tsunami five years ago, when supply lines were broken for component manufacturers in the country's northeast.

The technology bias extends to working with bike and component manufacturers.

Of more concern are restrictions that prevent the supply of parts direct from component manufacturers rather than from the carmaker.