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Honeywell Opens New Madrid MRO Center for F124 Engine

Honeywell Launches New Madrid MRO Center to Support F124 Engine
Honeywell has officially opened a new maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in Madrid dedicated to servicing the F124 engine, which powers the Leonardo M-346 advanced trainer aircraft. This center, established in collaboration with Spanish engine specialist ITP Aero, aims to provide faster turnaround times and improved service for European operators, including those in Greece and Italy.
Strategic Shift to Regional Support
The Madrid facility represents a significant strategic shift for Honeywell, replacing the previous system that required F124 engines to be sent to Phoenix, USA, or Taiwan for overhaul. The F124 engine also powers the AIDC F-CK-1 fighter in Taiwan, but with over 150 F124 engines currently in service across Europe—including those installed on the Aero Vodochody L-159 trainer and light combat aircraft—Honeywell is positioning the new center as a regional “center of excellence.” This move is intended to better support its expanding European customer base by enhancing local infrastructure and expertise.
Mike Vallillo, Honeywell’s vice president of sales for defense and space international, emphasized the importance of establishing a sustainable, long-term solution in Europe. He described ITP Aero as a “leading industry provider” and highlighted the significance of partnering with a company committed to investing in the necessary capabilities. ITP Aero was granted the F124 license in 2024 after months of collaboration to develop the regional support framework.
Navigating Intensifying Market Competition
The inauguration of the Madrid MRO center comes amid growing competition in the global engine maintenance market. New entrants such as Acron Aviation’s facility in Bengaluru and StandardAero’s expanded operations in Georgia are intensifying the contest for engine support contracts. Industry analysts observe that Honeywell’s focus on reducing turnaround times and enhancing regional service is a direct response to these competitive pressures. Concurrently, rival companies are forging strategic alliances, exemplified by Zenith Aviation’s recent partnership with Honeywell for TFE731 engine support, reflecting a broader trend within the sector.
Despite Spain’s decision to select the GE Aerospace F404 engine for its Turkish Aerospace Hurjet trainer aircraft, Honeywell continues to experience robust demand for the F124 engine across other European markets. Looking forward, the company is positioning the F124 as a potential powerplant for future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) platforms. While Honeywell recently introduced the 1,600lb-thrust HON1600 engine tailored for CCA applications, Vallillo noted the F124’s particular suitability for larger uncrewed “loyal wingman” air vehicles. He remarked, “We are having more than just conversations [about that application]. We think there’s a sweet spot that engine can address. There’s a number of different programmes ongoing globally and we are engaged with OEMs on where [the F124] would be a suitable choice for them.”
Honeywell’s investment in the Madrid MRO center underscores its commitment to maintaining a competitive edge through enhanced regional capabilities, expedited service, and strategic partnerships in an evolving market landscape.

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