Budget Constraints limit Singapore shopping list

Flight International 5-11 August 2003

Delays
Brendon Sobie/Singapore

Budget Constraints limit Singapore shopping list
Need for fighters and naval helicopters mean new trainers and C-130 upgrade must wait

Singapore has put on hold an Aermacchi S211 trainer replacement and Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules upgrade as new fighters and naval helicopters consume the defense budget.

Too many requirements are competing for a defense budget that may increase less than expected because of a revenue shortfall created by SARS outbreak.

Singapore also has requirements for airborne early warning aircraft and unmanned air vehicles that could leapfrong long-standing C-130 and trainer requirements.

Singapore is considering privately operated basic trainer, and manufacturers including Embrarer, Korea Aerospace Industries and Pilatus have provided information.

Singapore was close awarding a cockpit upgrade contract for its C-130C/Hs to Singapore Technologies Aerospace (ST Aero) two years ago. Derco Aerospace was to supply new auxiliary power units and enviornmental control systems, but manufacturers – including BAE Systems, Elbit Systems, Israel Aircraft Industries, Lockheed Martin and Raytheon – have been discussing partnerships with ST Aero (Flight International, 1-7 JUly).

Budget contraints also threaten to affect planned fighter and helicopter procurements. Singapore s expected to ask for best and final proposals this month from three naval helicopter manufacturers and to downselect by mid-September three of six copleting fighter manufacturers.

The Eurocopter ASS32C Cougar, NH Industries NH90 and Sikorsky S-70 helicopters are being evaluated, with a selection expected late this year and contract like next Feburary. Singapore is expected to seek six to eight helicopters with deliveries around 2007.

A contract for 10 fighters, plus 10 options, is scheduled for mid-2004, with deliveries near the end of the decade. The Boeing F-15, Lockheed Martin F-16 and Eurofighter Typhon are expected to be shortlisted, with the Boeing F/A-18, Dassualt Rafale and Suhkoi Su-35 being eliminated.