Why this is important to Wisconsin businesses: Wisconsin companies with expertise in manufacturing, advanced materials, and innovative technology may find opportunities to collaborate with Swiss aerospace companies and researchers.
Switzerland’s aerospace industry is a thriving sector, and it will continue to be a priority in the coming years, the government says.
The Swiss aerospace and military defense sector accounted for $13.7 billion in revenue in 2020, according to Accurity, a business data intelligence firm.
The government’s Space Policy, released in April 2023, sets the course for its commitment to the industry. Switzerland’s space ecosystem consists of about 250 companies, startups, and universities spread throughout the country, the report says.
It lists the government’s three main priorities:
- Access to space-based services—particularly for security—and responsible use of outer space
- Competitiveness and relevance through research and innovation
- International partnership and cooperation, along with support of Swiss businesses, science, and user groups
“Switzerland has helped shape Europe’s space activities since the 1960s. Europe is where it is today in part because of Switzerland’s political, regulatory, technological, and financial contributions,” the report says.
Switzerland excels in satellite technology, with companies and institutions engaged in the design and manufacturing of small satellites and their components. The drone industry is also expanding, with applications in agriculture, surveying, and logistics.
For Wisconsin companies interested in participating in Switzerland’s aerospace development, two organizations work closely with international groups and foreign companies, according to Accurity.
The Swiss Aerospace Cluster includes more than 170 manufacturers, engineers, and related organizations representing the Swiss aerospace and satellite services network.
The Switzerland Global Enterprise promotes new markets for its members and also actively promotes international cooperation on projects.
