Var's Aerospace Ecosystem Showcases Strength at Bourget Airshow
Regional companies set to display their innovations at the International Aeronautics and Space Exhibition from June 16 to 22 in Paris.
The Var region is gearing up for a significant presence at the International Aeronautics and Space Exhibition (SIAE), scheduled from June 16 to 22 at the Bourget Exhibition Centre in Paris.
This event will feature a 400 square meter stand representing the local aerospace ecosystem, supported by the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region.
The aerospace sector in Var is robust, with key players including Babcock International, which has recently completed the first revision of the H160 helicopter, modified for the French Navy, at its site in Cannet-des-Maures after three years of operation.
Another notable company is Aresia, based in Solliès-Pont, which specializes in manufacturing various fastening parts, including screws and bolts used in aircraft like the Airbus A320 and the Rafale fighter jet.
Numerous small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from the region collaborate directly with prominent aerospace contractors.
Ixarys, located in Lorgues, has developed Tracing Flight, a software solution designed for managing aircraft airworthiness and maintenance activities.
Originally focused on traceability software for the wine industry, Ixarys is now part of a delegation of approximately thirty companies showcasing their capabilities through the southern region’s initiative, which was presented to the press on May 27.
The defense sector is particularly well-represented among the exhibitors at this year's Bourget Airshow.
Notable companies include Aviva Metals, a small enterprise from Seyne-sur-Mer that has been providing copper alloy parts to aircraft manufacturers and maintenance providers for over fifteen years.
Bija Industrie, based in Brignoles, is also highlighted for its global shipping of specialized tooling solutions to meet specific demands from constructors and fleet managers.
Additionally, Tethys, located in Signes, specializes in designing and manufacturing pyromechanical systems, including applications for military use.
Other participants include ANSE, which develops captive balloons and airships from La Ciotat, and they utilize the drone testing center in Pourrières for their operations.
The University of Toulon and the Mediterranean Foundation for Strategic Studies, also established in Toulon, will join the regional contingent at the event.
This year's Bourget Airshow will emphasize the defense sector, which is significantly represented in the Var region.
According to regional data, the aerospace and defense industry in Var supports around 26,000 jobs and comprises approximately 230 SMEs and intermediate-sized enterprises (ETIs), generating annual revenues of around six billion euros.