A design and manufacturing firm has announced it is to create 13 engineering posts in Ballynahinch, Co Down.

Datum Tool Design Ltd also secured a new customer in China and recently signed an initial order for over $1 million with X'ian Aircraft Corporation.

Economy Minister Simon Hamilton welcomed the announcement.

The skilled engineering roles will be created over the next three years.

Minister Hamilton said: "By implementing this expansion Datum will strengthen its global competitive position and enhance, not only the skills and capabilities of the business, but also those of the wider Northern Ireland Aerospace sector.

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"With our manufacturing exports growing, I want to see more companies like this capitalise on their exporting potential. Invest NI's support for this project is ensuring that aerospace companies like Datum evolve and establish the skills sets, design and manufacturing capabilities to meet the needs of this global industry."

Michael Maguire of Datum Tool Design said: "Working with Invest NI has ignited our export ambitions and its support with this expansion is enabling us to undertake the R&D and market development activities which will strengthen our competitive position.

"A number of new aircraft programmes are being introduced to meet increasing demand for air travel and enhancing our manufacturing capabilities and workforce will enhance the scope to target emerging markets."

Invest NI has offered Datum Tool Design £177,500 to help the company extend its manufacturing facilities in County Down, purchase specialist composite machinery and expand its workforce.

(CD/LM)