Thales strengthens its digital core in Singapore

• Singapore to become global R&D hub for FlytEDGE, training 40 experts by 2030
• Launched AI-enabled cloud compliance service to strengthen cybersecurity & regulation readiness

Thales has built its industrial and technological presence in Singapore for over 50 years—from establishing avionics activities in 1973 to launching cortAIx, its AI accelerator, last year. Today, the group said it will continue to advance as a deep tech company, driving innovation in AI, cybersecurity and quantum technologies.

At the Singapore Airshow 2026, the company announced new investments across three key areas:

Singapore to become a global R&D centre for FlytEDGE IFE, training 40 experts by 2030
Thales stated that its award-winning FlytEDGE is the industry’s first cloud-native inflight entertainment platform, enabling airlines to deliver seamless digital experiences and real-time connectivity. Since 2021, the company’s inflight entertainment (IFE) Cloud Centre of Excellence (CCoE) in Singapore has developed local expertise in cloud-based services.

Under a new MoU, the CCoE plans to expand its capabilities in cloud, data engineering and edge computing, becoming one of three global R&D centres for FlytEDGE, alongside France and the United States.

The company expects 40 experts to support FlytEDGE in Singapore over the next three years. These roles will require expertise in cloud and data engineering, edge computing, and technical and engineering support for IFE solutions, while also developing new cybersecure end-to-end services that integrate cloud and edge computing, secured by design.

Edge computing will enable real-time processing and insights on board aircraft, while cloud automation will streamline operations, allowing passengers to seamlessly connect their personal devices during flight.

New AI-enabled Regulatory Technology managed service for cloud compliance

Developed jointly by Thales teams in Singapore and France, this cybersecure AI-enabled solution supports major public cloud platforms, including AWS, Azure and Google Cloud. It creates secure cloud “landing zones” where project teams can build and deploy applications quickly while remaining audit-ready.

According to Thales, with integrated controls and continuous real-time monitoring adapted to multiple industries and jurisdictions, the service ensures organisations remain cybersecure, audit-ready and aligned with evolving regulatory standards in their cloud journey. Initially available to fintech customers, it will expand to other regulated sectors, such as pharmaceuticals and aerospace, in the coming months.

Boosting smart manufacturing capabilities through automation and talent development
Thales said its Singapore Cybersecurity & Digital Identity Manufacturing Competence Centre produces more than 200 million banking cards, 12 million identity cards and nearly 10 million passport datapages annually. A new MoU will accelerate the site’s transformation through smart automation technologies, including Collaborative Robots and Autonomous Mobile Robots for transportation, loading and unloading, inspection, and machine setups across production.

According to Thales, this initiative will enhance efficiency while upskilling the workforce for higher-value roles. By combining human expertise with intelligent automation, the 21,000-square-metre facility strengthens its position as one of Thales’ most competitive production sites, fully aligned with Singapore’s ambitions as a global hub for advanced manufacturing.

“We value Thales’ commitment to developing a future-ready talent pool and driving transformative impact from Singapore. These investments reinforce our position as a global innovation hub for frontier technologies and demonstrate how companies can leverage our trusted ecosystem to co-create new solutions in advanced manufacturing,” said Zheng Jingxin, vice president and head of Mobility, EDB.

“These agreements reflect Thales’ continued investment in Singapore, where we are deepening expertise in AI, cyber, quantum and cloud technologies, developing home-grown solutions and transforming our industrial operations. With strong support from the EDB, we look forward to strengthening Singapore’s digital positioning and advancing its manufacturing ambitions,” said Emily Tan, country director and chief executive, Thales in Singapore.