Italian aerospace and defense group Leonardo remains engaged in discussions to finalize strategic alliances and joint ventures with European partners, despite challenges in keeping pace with global competitors, CEO Roberto Cingolani said on Monday.
Speaking at an event in Florence, Cingolani confirmed that talks with Airbus and Thales are progressing. In July, Leonardo announced negotiations with the two French companies to explore potential collaborations aimed at strengthening Europe’s space industry.
Regarding a planned joint venture with Germany’s Rheinmetall, Cingolani stated that technical teams are meeting weekly, and the process is moving forward smoothly. “Things are going well, and I believe we will be able to finalize the joint venture soon,” he said. The companies reached an agreement in July to collaborate on producing tanks and other land defense systems, with the venture expected to be completed by September.
The European Union is pushing for a more robust space strategy to compete with the growing dominance of U.S. and Chinese technology in the field of launchers. Leonardo’s new strategic framework, announced in July, is set to be ready by the end of the month. Cingolani noted that the company is slightly ahead of schedule in drafting the plan, with external advisors working to integrate it into Leonardo’s updated business plan.
Leonardo, which specializes in manufacturing satellites, orbital infrastructure, sensors, and satellite services, is also preparing to expand its space division. The company remains optimistic about future growth, especially as Western governments continue to boost defense spending in response to global tensions involving Russia and China.
Defense industry executives, including Cingolani, have downplayed concerns that political instability in the U.S. and Europe might limit military budgets, expressing confidence that defense investments will remain a priority.
