EDB to help link homegrown outfits with major aerospace players

SINGAPORE — To realise the goal of becoming a globally-recognised aerospace hub, Singapore will focus on strengthening existing and striking new partnerships with leading original equipment manufacturers, as well as help homegrown firms play a greater role in servicing and supplying to major aircraft programmes.

These priorities for the aviation industry, up to the year 2040, were outlined by the Economic Development Board (EDB), which is driving efforts for Singapore to cover the range of functions in aerospace, from design and engineering, to production and aftermarket services for major aircraft programmes.

Speaking at a media conference today (Feb 14) ahead of the biennial Singapore Airshow opening on Tuesday, EDB Director for Transport Engineering Tan Kong Hwee said the EDB will work closely with SPRING Singapore to see how the Government can assist local outfits.

“It’s a 2040 vision, it is pretty long-term. I think first and foremost, the EDB has means to support these companies. We will help them also learn from some of ... (the) local companies that have already succeeded,” he said, citing Wah Son Engineering, JEP Precision and Singapore Aerospace Manufacturing among local firms that have successfully earned a share of the pie of the market.

Singapore has “punched above its weight” in the aerospace industry, accounting for 10 per cent of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul works globally, among other things. “This is where we want to continue to build our capabilities and remain in that leading position,” he said.