Representing an opportunity for growth, Alcatel and Finmeccanica have announced the successful creation of two new joint ventures — Alcatel Alenia Space and Telespazio Holding. Their common objectives will be to consolidate leadership in telecommunication satellite systems and services, to acquire a strong position in the most important European programmes, such as Galileo and GMES, and to strengthen space defence and security, as well as observation, exploration and science.
Alcatel Alenia Space, of which Alcatel holds 67 percent and Finmeccanica 33 percent, now combines the activities of Alcatel Space and Alenia Spazio. It focuses on the design, development, and manufacturing of space systems, satellites, payloads, orbital infrastructures and space transportation, instruments and associated ground systems for civilian and military applications. With estimated 2004 sales of €1.8 B, its operational headquarters are located in Cannes, France, with plants in France, Italy, Belgium and Spain.
Telespazio Holding, of which Finmeccanica holds 67 percent and Alcatel 33 percent, combines Telespazio with Alcatel Space Services and Operations activities. It concentrates on operations and services for satellite solutions, which include control and exploitation of space systems as well as value-added services for networking, multimedia and earth observation. With estimated 2004 sales of €350 M, its headquarters are in Rome with plants in Italy, France and Germany.