Lanfranco Zucconi is the founder and CEO of S.A.B. Aerospace Ltd. This company is already celebrating its tenth anniversary in Brno this year. In Italy, the parent company S.A.B. Aerospace Ltd. operates in the territory of Benevento in the Campania region, where companies active in the aerospace industry are concentrated. It also develops business activities in Romania, Poland, and Slovakia.
Can you briefly describe your journey into the space industry?
I embarked on my journey into the space industry with a profound passion for exploration and innovation. Having started as an engineer, my fascination with space and technology led me to establish SAB Aerospace over two decades ago. Since then, our focus has been on pushing the boundaries of space science and technology, contributing to the advancement of the European space sector.
What led you to the decision to open a local branch of SAB in the Czech Republic?
The decision to establish a branch in the Czech Republic was a strategic move driven by the country’s rich scientific heritage, skilled workforce, and the government’s commitment to fostering aerospace technologies. The Czech Republic presented an excellent opportunity for SAB Aerospace to collaborate with local talent, leverage research capabilities, and contribute to the vibrant space community.
You are celebrating the 10th anniversary on the Czech market this year. What are the main goals of this decade?
Our 10th anniversary in the Czech Republic marks a decade of fruitful collaboration. Looking forward, our main goals include further strengthening partnerships within the Czech Space Alliance and CAMIC, fostering innovation, and expanding our contributions to European Space Agency (ESA) programs. We aim to position SAB Aerospace as a leading player in the European space industry, driving
technological advancements and fostering international collaboration.
S.A.B. Aerospace is a member of Czech Space Alliance and CAMIC. What are the benefits of the membership?
Membership in the Czech Space Alliance and CAMIC has been instrumental in our success. It provides a platform for collaboration with like-minded companies, facilitates knowledge exchange, and opens doors to new opportunities. Together, we contribute to the growth of the Czech space sector and promote synergies that benefit all members.
What is your vision about the upcoming future of the company?
Our vision for the future is rooted in innovation, sustainability, and international collaboration. We aspire to be at the forefront of cutting-edge space technologies, leading missions that contribute to scientific discovery and environmental monitoring. By fostering collaboration with ESA, the Czech government, and local partners, we envision SAB Aerospace playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration.
As part of our strategic plan, we are excited about the recent expansion into Slovakia, where we have established a new branch. Concurrently, we have been actively working towards a significant transition in the last few months – I am confident in handing over the leadership of the Czech company to the new local CEO, Tomáš Moravec. This move is not just a transfer of responsibilities but a strategic step to fortify our presence in Central Europe, nurturing connections with local talents and experts.
What would you appreciate in the close future to support space in the Czech Republic and Europe?
In the near future, I would appreciate continued support from the Czech government in fostering an environment conducive to space industry growth. Investments in education, research, and the infrastructure will be crucial. Additionally, promoting international collaboration within Europe, particularly with ESA, will enhance our collective capabilities and elevate the Czech Republic’s standing in the global space community.
I expect that during the ministerial conference at the end of 2025, the Czech government, through the ESA Delegation, will increase its contribution to the budget for space activities for the next three years to achieve the previously set goals. This investment is crucial to support our ambitious projects and further the development of the Czech space industry.
As we are celebrating a decade in the Czech Republic, I am optimistic about the future and committed to contributing to the success of the Czech space industry and the broader European space community.
Thank you for the interview.
