Rolls-Royce, EDB partner to build Singapore aerospace capabilities

Rolls-Royce and EDB sign MOU to strengthen capabilities in Singapore’s aerospace and power systems sectors

03 Feb 2026 3 min read

Photo credit: Rolls-Royce Holdings

This press release was issued by Rolls-Royce Holdings.

Rolls-Royce Singapore, Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia and Singapore’s Economic Development Board (EDB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore new growth opportunities across aerospace and power systems capabilities. This aims to support key economic pillars such as advanced manufacturing and innovation, while demonstrating the role of collaboration and knowledge- sharing in supporting Singapore’s growth story. The MoU was signed by John Kelly (Rolls- Royce Singapore), Michelle Liu (Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia) and Zheng Jingxin (EDB), in the presence of Rob Watson, CEO – Rolls-Royce Civil Aerospace.

The MoU enables parties to explore technology advancement for enhancing aerospace manufacturing operations as well as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) operations in Singapore. Rolls-Royce will explore potential development of technologies beyond existing programmes such as the Smart Manufacturing Joint Lab (SMJL). In addition, Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia will look to expand and enhance its capabilities to support regional growth of the data centres market, building on the strong foundation of its long-standing presence in the power systems sector. The parties will also look at the establishment of an AI Centre of Excellence with a view to unlock the potential of AI development, including increasing use of agentic AI in Power Systems applications.

“Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia has operated from Singapore for over 50 years, working closely with partners to provide world-class power solutions that enable key pillars of growth in the region, including providing critical power for defence platforms, commercial marine and infrastructure. We look forward to working with partners and the EDB to further enhance technology development and capabilities in this region. With data centres set to rise exponentially, we believe Rolls-Royce can play a pivotal role in meeting the rising demand for reliable and sustainable power enabled by integrating key technologies such as AI.”

Giovanni Spadaro

President of Global Markets

Rolls-Royce (Power Systems)

“Rolls-Royce is a long-standing partner to Singapore’s aerospace and manufacturing sectors. We’ve seen first-hand how partnership, collaboration and innovation are essential to support sustainable growth for Singapore and the region. The continued rise in global aviation demand including aftermarket services means we must remain dynamic in our thinking. We are excited to build on our partnerships in the region to develop the right technologies, upskill talent and embrace new capabilities.”

John Kelly

Senior Vice President – Civil Aerospace (Customers)

Rolls-Royce Singapore

“The MoU reflects Rolls- Royce’s continued commitment to deepen aerospace manufacturing capabilities and MRO technologies in Singapore. These initiatives will strengthen Singapore’s status as a global hub for aerospace innovation and manufacturing excellence, and power growth opportunities in AI, industrials, and infrastructure in Asia Pacific.”

Zheng Jingxin

Vice President and Head, Mobility

EDB

The Smart Manufacturing Joint Lab 2.0 was launched in October 2025 as a joint initiative by Rolls-Royce, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and Singapore Aero Engine Services Limited (SAESL). Potential technology advancements under the MoU will build on such existing initiatives and aim to strengthen Singapore’s position as an Aerospace and MRO hub, in line with growing global aviation demand.

On the other hand, the Asia-Pacific data centre market is expected to grow by over three times by 2029 driven by Cloud, AI and hyperscale growth1. Working with its customers, Rolls-Royce will focus on providing the technologies, capabilities and expertise to unlock this growth.