ST Aero selected to head avionics enhancements to air force transports from mid-year
Singapore is to launch an engine and avionics upgrade to its Lockheed Martin C-130B/H transports under a service life-extension programme to be led by Singapore Technologies Aerospace (ST Aero). The air force recently selected the company as prime contractor for the project, with industry sources expecting a contract to be signed soon. Work will start later this year and will be completed by 2010.
ST Aero is in the process of sourcing equipment and integration-related services from several vendors, and is expected to confirm its selected suppliers within the next few weeks. Upgrades are being planned for the C-130's autopilot, radar, cockpit displays, flight management systems and communications and navigation equipment, with these required to operate without restrictions in Europe and North America.
Both ST Aero and the Republic of Singapore Air Force declined to comment on the deal last week. The service operates two C-130B and five C-130H transports, plus three KC-130B/H tankers, according to Flight's MiliCAS database.
ST Aero has long sought to enter the C-130 avionics upgrade market, and is keen to use the new project to promote its support capabilities. It is also to head the modernisation of up to six C-130s for Indonesia's air force.
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Seven C-130B/H transports are to receive new equipment by 2010 |
The Republic of Singapore Air Force has created a dedicated unmanned air vehicle command under a major structural reorganisation implemented early this year. The step is expected to lead to increased research and development activities, and to strengthen Singapore's status as one of the leading users of UAVs in the Asia-Pacific region.
Source: Flight International
