A technology development program that could lead to the manufacture of sophisticated engine parts in Singapore has been launched by Pratt & Whitney and funded by that country's government.

"This is our first technology development program on the island," Paul Adams, senior vice president for engineering at P&W told AviationWeek's Show News. "And it could lead to our first manufacture of high technology parts there."

The study will explore technologies to cast parts faster but at lower cost. "Assuming the technology comes through, we would be working toward longer term production," Adams said. It has not yet been decided whether the parts will be made by Pratt & Whitney or by a Singaporean partner. "We are looking at exactly how we would produce on the island, but we do think that it's quite viable to do so," he explained.

Adams praised what he called Singapore's extremely sophisticated economic strategy that targets research in high technology areas, provides financial incentives and links in with government research facilities and the universities.

"This makes Singapore a very attractive place to do research," Adams said. "I think there is going to be a long-term expansion on the island into parts manufacturing, and a long-term potential participation in the design and development of engines."

The study will be carried out within Pratt & Whitney's repair development center and could include Singaporean partners.