Major aircraft manufacturers are demonstrating their commitment to the Asia-Pacific region by choosing Singapore to showcase new products.

Main attractions at Asian Aerospace 2002 include Lockheed Martin's full scale mock-up display of the supersonic F-35 (Joint Strike Fighter) shown for the first time in Asia.

"Lockheed Martin has built strong and enduring alliances in the nations of the Pacific Rim, including Singapore," said Vance Coffman, chairman and chief executive, Lockheed Martin. "A vitally important aerospace exhibition, Asian Aerospace grants us an opportunity to solidify our current relationships and forge new ones."

The Cessna Citation Encore 560 and Raytheon Aircraft Premier 1 high performance business jets are making their first appearance at the show.

Represented

Regular exhibitor Boeing is well represented by its various business units. Its displays feature the AH-64D Apache Longbow, F/A-18 with simulator, Sonic Cruiser and the 737 Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AWACS).

Douglas Miller, vice-president for Boeing's Asia-Pacific Operations says: "We want to continue growing with the region and we believe that Asian Aerospace offers an ideal platform for Boeing to fulfil its long-term business strategy as well as communicate our commitment to the region.

"The meeting of key figures in the global aerospace industry at Asian Aerospace 2002 will definitely open new opportunities, developments and solutions."

Rolls-Royce, another long-time supporter of the exhibition, acknowledges the strategic importance of the show by choosing to launch its Trent engine maintenance joint venture with SIA Engineering and Hong Kong Aero Engine Service, Singapore Aero Engine Services (SAESL), during the event.

Other aerospace technology innovations featuring among the 900 exhibitors from 37 countries include Gippsland Aeronautics' GA8 Airvan utility aircraft and Ibis Aerospace's Ae270 turboprop.

Source: Flight Daily News