SINGAPORE—Singapore’s ST Engineering is positioning itself to be in the running for future engine designs, as it studies how to manufacture more efficient, quiet and sustainable engine nacelles. The maintenance, repair and overhaul provider is exhibiting, at the Singapore Airshow, its nacelle design and production capability for the first time since it acquired Middle River Aerostructure Systems (MRAS) from General Electric in 2019.

“We are continuously working with OEMs to see what are the upcoming opportunities—obviously there aren’t many. There are minor projects, but you don’t have the next big thing yet.” says Jeffrey Lam, president for ST Engineering’s aerospace sector.

“We continue to work on future nacelle design So that when the next aircraft platform comes on, we will be ready to put in [our] best competition.”

He said future nacelles would have to be acoustically optimized, light and durable and made with good composite materials.

MRAS is already a major supplier and ramping up production for the A320neo engines thrust reversers, and has participated IN nacelle programs such as the Comac C919’s Leap 1C engines and the GEnx-2B engine for the Boeing 747-8.

“MRAS has previously focused on GE engines and we want to diversify ourselves with other engine and aircraft OEMs after we acquired it from GE.” he adds.

Lam cited Boeing’s new midsize aircraft that is currently under development as a potential opportunity for new nacelle design and production. MRAS also bid for the B-52 reengineering program, but the contract was awarded to Rolls-Royce as the program lead.