As we step into 2025, ST Engineering MRAS reflects on a year of innovation and growth while setting bold aspirations for the future. With a strong heritage of over 95 years as an active contributor to the growth of the aerospace industry, the company is poised to expand its reach into emerging markets and reinforce its leadership in nacelle systems, composite structures, advanced manufacturing technologies, and MRO services.
A Journey of Growth and Innovation
2024 marked significant milestones for ST Engineering MRAS. The company initiated groundbreaking projects in the space sector, collaborating with an end-to-end space prime, ventured into advanced air mobility, partnering with a leading eVTOL innovator, and saw the launch of new technology development programs set to enter testing phase this year. While maintaining a robust order backlog, these projects highlight a deliberate effort to diversify beyond commercial aviation market which is not expected to see a new aircraft until the next decade.
“Our aspirations for 2025 center on building on last year’s achievements, delivering customer wins, expanding our presence in business aviation, advanced air mobility (AAM), defense and space, and growing awareness of our capabilities in these sectors,” shares Sugato Bhattacharjee, Head of Strategy and Business Development at ST Engineering – MRAS. “We aim to deepen our partnerships and introduce new offerings to both existing and potential customers.”
“In 2025, the MRAS team will focus on supporting the industry with technology demonstrators,” adds Ben Parrington, Director, Product Engineering. “These advancements will help us set the stage for the next generation of aircraft, positively changing and disrupting the industry.”
Key Milestones and Strategic Goals
Looking ahead, Mitch Smith, Vice President of Operations at ST Engineering – MRAS, outlines a clear vision for diversifying revenue streams beyond commercial aviation, focusing on business aviation, AAM, space, and defense. “We are investing in the development of base technologies for adjacent markets for collaborating with primes in these areas,” he explains.
A major initiative for 2025 includes establishing a Composites Centre of Excellence dedicated to advancing material manufacturing technologies. This facility will play a pivotal role in developing the material and product solutions for the next generation of airframes and new missions.
Showcasing Expertise on Global Stages
ST Engineering MRAS is set to exhibit at several key events to highlight its advanced composite and MRO capabilities:
- JEC World (Paris): Mitch will lead a panel discussion, underscoring the company’s expertise in composite manufacturing.
- MRO Americas: A premier event for the MRO industry, where the team will exhibit alongside the broader ST Engineering Group.
- Additional events include Aero Engines, ACPC, and defense-focused exhibitions, aligning with the company’s diversification strategy.
Driving Growth in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO)
MRAS’s MRO division continues to excel, building on a strong foundation of achievements in 2024. Key accomplishments included the first 787 inlet, LEAP 1A, and lease MRO operations, which underscore MRAS’s expertise in complex nacelle systems.
“We are a world-class provider of nacelle MRO, globally positioned with exchange and lease items on hand,” explains Mike Celestino, Senior Manager, MRO Sales, Marketing & Customer Support.
Looking ahead, MRAS will:
- Support core programs such as 787, LEAP 1A, and CF6.
- Explore opportunities in the 737 Max market as production ramps up.
- Enhance its global presence through key events like MRO Americas, Aero Engines, and ACPC.
Navigating Industry Trends
MRAS is staying ahead of emerging trends and challenges, leveraging its capabilities to address the needs of a rapidly evolving aerospace and defense industry:
Fractional Ownership in Business Aviation: A shift toward fractional ownership is reshaping the business aviation market. There is also increased demand for larger jets some of which can accommodate 15-18 passengers. This trend underscores the need for lighter, more payload-efficient aircraft, a demand ST Engineering MRAS is meeting through its expertise in composite materials and advanced manufacturing.
Advanced Air Mobility (AAM): eVTOLs are going through a reality check with market consolidation as some major players work feverishly towards obtaining aircraft certification. As regulatory frameworks, including FAA rulemaking, solidify, the prospect of air taxi services is becoming a reality. “This market requires continued engagement and due diligence, and we are working to ensure we are positioned as a key partner for future leaders,” notes Sugato.
Space Sector Growth: With increasing focus on launch systems and structural assembly of metallic and composite components, ST Engineering MRAS is strengthening its presence in this evolving market. The company aims to leverage its US-based manufacturing capabilities to provide speed and scale with high-rate, automated, and LEAN manufacturing solutions.
Defense Sector Opportunities: Scale-up and capacity challenges in the defense sector present a unique opportunity. ST Engineering MRAS is well-positioned to offer products “Made in America”, supported by its technology innovations and expertise in high-rate manufacturing.
“We are also preparing the industry for the next generation of propulsion systems and aerostructures,” Ben adds.
Setting the Tone for 2025
Reflecting on achievements from 2024 and building on them in 2025, ST Engineering MRAS’s key message to the industry is one of resilience, innovation, and readiness. With a focus on designing complex system, advanced manufacturing, composite technologies, and MRO excellence, the company is well-positioned to lead the next wave of aerospace advancements.
As Sugato aptly puts it, “We are on a journey of continuous learning and growth, leveraging our legacy and capabilities to shape the future of aerospace.”
Partnering for Success
As the aerospace industry evolves, ST Engineering MRAS continues to lead through innovation, advanced manufacturing, and trusted partnerships. Whether pioneering composite technologies or excelling in MRO services, MRAS is shaping the future of aerospace.
Let’s Shape the Future Together.
