HCL, iBASEt partner to ramp up digitalisation in aerospace, defence manufacturing

Homegrown information technology (IT) services company HCL Technologies on Thursday announced a partnership with California-based manufacturing execution systems (MES) provider iBASEt, to offer Industry 4.0 services to the aerospace and defence industries.

The deal, a statement said, will ensue digital transformation such as connected factory processes.

“HCL can leverage iBASEt’s digital suite of solutions designed to address the needs of businesses operating in complex, highly regulated discrete manufacturing industries,” it added.

HCL owns and operates an ExPAND 4.0 framework, which it says connects functions such as engineering, manufacturing and after-sales, that are otherwise siloed.

Founded in 1986, iBASEt operates software application suites that digitise operations in manufacturing industries. The solutions cater to shop floor and supply chain processes, such as manual paper and email processes, as well as quality management processes.

Primarily catering to aerospace and defence industry needs, iBASEt’s MES, along with maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and Solumina suite of applications provide its clients with production, quality and compliance monitoring solutions.

The firm counts companies such as Airbus, General Dynamics, NASA, Rolls Royce, Lockheed Martin, Saab and Virgin Group’s satellite service company Orbit as its clients, according to its website. iBASEt has an India-based office in Ahmedabad.

Industry 4.0 refers to the growing focus on automation and digitalisation in the manufacturing industries.

In December, HCL Technologies partnered with Portuguese automation and manufacturing software provider Critical Manufacturing to provide Industry 4.0 services, consultation and support to manufacturing customers.

Last year, the Noida-based firm collaborated with Boston headquartered software firm Parametric Technology to create an internet of things solution called Realtime Manufacturing Insights, another Industry 4.0 business enabler.