Safran chooses Singapore for its first international AI Centre of Excellence
Safran.AI today announced plans to establish its first international subsidiary in Singapore. The announcement comes as Safran and EDB sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen Singapore’s role as a strategic hub for Safran in Southeast Asia and lay the foundation for long-term cooperation. The creation of Safran.AI Singapore is the first concrete outcome of this partnership, with further major initiatives expected in the coming years.
The new Safran.AI Singapore subsidiary will focus on three key areas. It will develop AI solutions for industry through a Centre of Excellence initially focusing on the automation of digital inspection to support Singapore’s MRO 4.0 ambitions for Safran, its partners and customers. It will also advance research and innovation by leveraging Singapore’s talent pool and academic ecosystem while serving Safran.AI’s customers across ASEAN. The new entity is expected to grow to around 50 employees over the next five years. Hiring will commence in the first quarter of 2027 with positions including data scientists and AI engineers.
“Safran.AI Singapore marks a new step in our strategy, drawing on exceptional talent and a world-class aviation maintenance ecosystem. I warmly thank EDB for its trust and support. We look forward to building a team of engineers and data scientists that will contribute to our growth across Southeast Asia,” said Sébastien Fabre, CEO of Safran.AI.
“Singapore has created a particularly attractive environment for the development of Safran’s activities, combining a dynamic business ecosystem, academic excellence and strong support from the authorities. We look forward to continuing to build on this successful partnership and strengthening Safran’s presence in the region,” said Philippe Errera, EVP, International Development and Government Affairs.
“Safran’s decision to establish its first international AI subsidiary in Singapore underscores our position as a leading hub for advanced I4.0 technologies and AI innovation. This is supported by strong research capabilities, skilled engineering talent, and a vibrant ecosystem of partners. We look forward to deepening this partnership with Safran to drive aerospace innovation and in advanced manufacturing across the region and create exciting opportunities for our local workforce” said Cindy Koh, Executive Vice President, Singapore Economic Development Board.
Safran has been present in Singapore for more than 45 years and today employs around 900 people across five production, engineering and maintenance sites. Singapore is a key hub for Safran’s activities in Southeast Asia, particularly for MRO and customer support, as well as an important part of its innovation ecosystem. Safran continues to invest in the country, most recently expanding the industrial capabilities of its Safran Landing Systems MRO site.
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