Honeywell and ST Engineering sign MOU to support defence aviation modernisation in Asia Pacific

Honeywell and ST Engineering have signed a new memorandum of understanding aimed at supporting defence aviation modernisation efforts across the Asia Pacific region. The agreement brings together Honeywell’s aerospace technologies and ST Engineering’s defence aviation engineering and sustainment capabilities, with a focus on retrofit, upgrade and long-term sustainment solutions for military aircraft operators in the region.

The MOU establishes a framework for both companies to explore collaboration opportunities that address evolving defence requirements. These efforts are expected to focus on enhancing existing aircraft fleets through targeted upgrades and modifications, as defence operators across Asia Pacific seek to balance operational readiness, cost efficiency and long-term sustainability.

The announcement was made in Singapore on 4 February, highlighting the city-state’s role as a strategic hub for aerospace and defence activities in the region. Senior leaders from both organisations were present at the signing, reflecting the strategic importance of the agreement for their respective defence aerospace businesses.

Focus on retrofit, upgrade and sustainment capabilities

Under the memorandum, Honeywell and ST Engineering will jointly assess potential solutions centred on retrofit, modification, upgrade and sustainment programmes for military aircraft operators. These areas are increasingly critical as defence forces aim to extend the service life of existing platforms while integrating more advanced avionics and mission systems.

One of the opportunities being explored is the potential establishment of a retrofit, modification and upgrade centre of excellence, alongside expanded maintenance capabilities for Honeywell avionics systems. Such a facility would be designed to support regional defence customers by providing closer access to upgrade and sustainment services, reducing turnaround times and dependence on support outside the region.

By combining Honeywell’s advanced aerospace technologies with ST Engineering’s experience in defence aviation engineering and maintenance, repair and overhaul, the collaboration is positioned to address aircraft lifecycle needs in a more integrated manner. This includes not only upgrades and modifications, but also long-term sustainment strategies intended to maintain operational readiness in demanding environments.

Strategic alignment to support regional defence needs

Sathesh Ramiah, Vice President for Defense and Space in Asia Pacific at Honeywell Aerospace, said the MOU reflects the company’s strategic intent to expand support through collaboration with trusted regional industry partners. He noted that aligning Honeywell’s aerospace technologies with ST Engineering’s local capabilities creates opportunities to support long-term mission readiness, resilience and sustainment for defence operators across Asia Pacific.

Daniel Ho, Senior Vice President and Head of Strategic Planning for Defence Aerospace at ST Engineering, said the agreement underscores the company’s focus on strengthening regional defence aviation capabilities through advanced engineering and sustainment solutions. He added that the MOU provides a framework to explore how the combined expertise of both organisations can support evolving operational needs in the region.

The collaboration comes as defence forces across Asia Pacific face growing pressure to modernise their fleets amid changing security dynamics and budget considerations. Partnerships that combine global aerospace technology providers with established regional engineering and sustainment players are increasingly seen as a practical approach to delivering scalable and sustainable defence aviation solutions.