Singapore launches new standard SS 708 for aerospace additive manufacturing

Singapore has introduced a new standard, SS 708, to help local manufacturers enhance their capabilities in additive manufacturing for the aerospace sector. Launched by the Singapore Manufacturing Federation – Standards Development Organisation (SMF-SDO) and Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) through the Singapore Standards Council, standard SS 708 was unveiled at Inter Airport Southeast Asia 2025, a major trade exhibition focused on airport innovation and technology. This marks Singapore’s first national standard for aerospace-related additive manufacturing and is a strategic step toward reinforcing the country’s position as a leading aerospace Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) hub in the Asia Pacific region.

Ms. Choy Sauw Kook, Director-General (Quality & Excellence), Enterprise Singapore, commented, “Trust and safety are of utmost importance in the aerospace sector, and local manufacturers must demonstrate their ability to reliably and efficiently produce aerospace-grade components. Standard SS 708 is a strategic tool to help these companies enhance their capabilities in additive manufacturing, thereby building trust within the industry. We will continue to work closely with our industry and standards partners to strengthen our standards infrastructure and advance our ambitions as a leading aerospace MRO hub.”

Now available for purchase, the standard SS 708 outlines a comprehensive set of process specifications for Filament Layer Manufacturing (FLM), what we usually refer to as thermoplastic filament material extrusion (MEX) or FDM/FFF. The standard provides detailed guidance on quality control measures, hardware validation, material requirements, and operational procedures to support the production of aerospace-grade parts such as lightweight structural components and specialised maintenance tools.

By adopting SS 708, local AM service providers can streamline production workflows and reduce turnaround times in aerospace MRO processes. This broadens Singapore’s base of qualified FLM suppliers and makes it easier for more aerospace companies to incorporate additive manufacturing into their operations. The standard is designed to be compatible with existing international frameworks, including those from ASTM and ISO, enabling Singapore-based manufacturers to meet global requirements and expand into international markets.

Mr. Dennis Mark, CEO, Singapore Manufacturing Federation, further commented, “SS 708 is a testament to Singapore’s commitment to advancing manufacturing excellence and innovation in the aerospace sector. By providing a robust framework for Filament Layer Manufacturing, this standard empowers local manufacturers to deliver aerospace-grade components efficiently while meeting stringent global requirements. It reinforces Singapore’s position as a competitive aerospace hub in the Asia Pacific region. At SMF, we are proud to support this milestone initiative, which not only strengthens industry capabilities but also paves the way for greater collaboration and growth within the aerospace ecosystem.”

The Working Group on Additive Manufacturing for Aerospace led the development of SS 708 under the oversight of the Manufacturing Standards Committee. Key stakeholders supporting this initiative include the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Cluster (NAMIC), the Association of Aerospace Industries (Singapore) (AAIS), and ST Engineering.