Aerospace, the Veneto network on the launching pad: over one hundred companies

Aerospace, over one hundred companies in the network

12 May 2025

In orbita. Ci sono missioni spaziali e lanci di satelliti nelle attività delle aziende venete della Rete innovativa regionale Rir Air. La rete nel suo complesso si è anche aggiudicata il Bando per la costruzione del primo satellite con tecnologia made in Veneto: a essere finanziato nello specifico è il progetto di ricerca e sviluppo Satco, abbreviazione per sta per Satellite cognitivo riconfigurabile

3' min read

Rir (Regional Innovation Network) Air, an acronym that stands for Aerospace innovation and research, has broken through the 100 mark. What is surprising, more than the number itself, is the type of requests that are arriving in increasing numbers: "More and more often these are companies that are not already involved in the sector, but which see a significant possibility of finding new opportunities in the face of traditional markets that are shrinking or becoming more complicated," explains president Federico Zoppas. Those who make components for the automotive industry - to give an example - could therefore think about designing and manufacturing components for satellites. "An operation

Although traditionally not as important in the space sector as Lazio or Piedmont, Veneto is rapidly making a name for itself, particularly in the field of space instrumentation. The region's focus on high-precision engineering and innovation in this niche sector is laying the groundwork for its greater involvement in Italy's broader space industry. Veneto's current industrial capabilities and their potential impact on the space sector will be analysed in detail in the following section.

Veneto is one of Italy's most industrially advanced and economically dynamic regions, with a strong tradition of adaptability and innovation. Over the decades, the region has evolved from its roots in traditional manufacturing to a leading position in high-tech industries, making significant contributions to national and global markets. The industrial landscape of Veneto is characterised not only by large companies, but also by a dense network of small and medium-sized enterprises. SMEs play a crucial role in the economic fabric of the region, driving innovation and maintaining the fl exibility needed to meet the changing demands of global markets.

At the heart of Veneto's industrial landscape are the manufacturing and engineering sectors, which have made the region a powerful centre for the production of advanced machinery and industrial equipment.

Veneto is home to Fincantieri, one of the world's largest shipbuilding groups, with a major shipyard in Marghera, Venice. Although Fincantieri is renowned for the construction of cruise ships and advanced military vessels, the company's expertise in complex engineering and large-scale production is very important for the aerospace and defence sectors, particularly in the design and construction of sophisticated structures.

The region's excellence in metalworking and mechatronics further strengthens its industrial capabilities. The Alto Vicentino, in particular, has a strong presence in these fields, which are fundamental for sectors such as automotive and aerospace.

In addition to manufacturing and engineering, the electronics and IT sector in Veneto is growing rapidly, thanks to advances in automation, robotics and digital technologies. Companies such as Lofra S.p.A., based in Teolo (Padua), are leaders in the production of high-quality kitchen appliances with advanced electronics that find cross-applications, even in the aerospace sector. Gefran S.p.A., known for its sensors and automation components, plays a significant role in this sector, with products widely used in aerospace and other high-tech industries. Electrolux, with major manufacturing operations in Susegana, Treviso, combines innovative electronics with advanced production processes, contributing to the wider high-tech landscape in the Veneto region.

Veneto's industrial landscape is also characterised by a highly developed chemical and pharmaceutical sector, known for its focus on innovation and research. The Veneto chemical industry is engaged in the production of advanced materials and composites used in various high-tech applications, including aerospace.

The region is also at the forefront of renewable energy technologies, placing strong emphasis on the production of machinery and components for the renewable energy sector. Veneto is a key player in the production of solar panels and wind turbines, which are increasingly important in space applications where sustainability and energy efficiency are key. The region's innovation in green technologies is in line with the increasing focus on sustainability in space exploration and satellite operations.