Finmeccanica Press Conference 

The Finmeccanica Press Conference held today at the Stand by the President and CEO of Finmeccanica Group, Pier Francesco Guarguaglini, and by the Chief Operating Officer, Giorgio Zappa.
First of all, the Conference focused on the Group's growth forecasts, remarkably encouraging after the recent success reached in the US market, with the selection of the C-27J by the US Army and Air Force as the new tactical transport aircraft for the Joint Cargo Aircraft (JCA) programme.
"After the success of the JCA in the USA, our aim is for the C27-J to become the international requisite for the type of missions it is designed for, rather than expecting a direct and immediate effect on our turnover" stated Mr Guarguaglini. He added that Finmeccanica shall pursue a strategy on a global scale, trying to have an industrial presence wherever necessary (USA, UK, Russia or other countries). As far as Europe is concerned, Finmeccanica plans to focus on the structural alliances as far as possible,
"In the near future" Mr Guarguaglini affirmed "there could be new acquisitions of hi-tech companies which fit in well with our assets and which have direct access to end-users. We are prepared to invest 3.5 billion euros in whatever manner best meets our growth requirements, with no exceptions"
In reference with the C-27J , Mr Guarguaglini stressed that the vehicle "…is a highly versatile aircraft, conceived for tactical transport but also good for Search & Rescue missions and for providing medical assistance in areas which are difficult to reach. For example, it would have been very useful during the New Orleans floods in 2005. The C-27J is a good example of Italian technology and should help pave the way for Italy to increase its investment in R&D - something which pays off in the long run, as shown by Finmeccanica's recent history."
Chief Operating Officer Mr Zappa put special emphasis on that fact that "there will not be any competition between the Superjet 100 and the ATR turboprop because they serve two different market segments and come into two different price bands. The turboprops are more suitable for capacities of up to 70-75 seats, while the Superjet becomes competitive over 90 seats". Concerning the International markets, he stated that Finmeccanica is "…keeping a close watch on Japan. It is a country of great opportunities and has strong technological capabilities; therefore our activities will not be only commercial, instead there will be the possibility of agreements for technological cooperation and for direct investments, in the energy sector too."
 
download video Press Conference 

 

13.55 - First Morning at the Paris Air Show 

Le Bourget 2007 officially began today with a very busy agenda. Italian and International delegations visited Finmeccanica's Chalets, Stand, and Static Area, welcomed by the Group's top management. The day started with a visit by Mr. Denis Ranque the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Thales, who toured the "Space Alliance" Pavillion. The Pavilion is mangaged both by Thales and Finmeccanica, owners of the two joint ventures Thales Alenia Space and Telespazio.
Finmeccanica Static Area was then honoured by the visit of the Italian Vice Minister of Transports, Hon. Cesare De Piccoli.
The Static Area also received the visit of Hon. Vittorio Prodi, a member of the ENVI Committee. (See video)
The Italian Area of the exhibition welcomed Mr. Marco Verzaschi, the Italian Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Defence.
The first Foreign Delegations to visit the Finmeccanica Stand were from the United Kingdom represented by Mr. Barry Thornton, Chief of Material, and from Norway, represented by Maj. Gen. Trond K. Karlsen from Defence Logistic Organization
Finmeccanica stand was also visited by Mr. Giuseppe Quitadamo, Deputy Chief of Staff of Italian Air Force Armaments (Armaereo).
 
download video Hon. Prodi   |   download video Hon. De Piccoli


 

Welcome to Finmeccanica's Stand at 2007 Paris Air Show - Le Bourget 

You are invited to explore Finmeccanica's involvement at the 2007 Paris Air Show at Le Bourget. Find out what ideas and values inspired the design of the Finmeccanica Stand and Static Display. Take a look at this year's unveiling of state-of-the-art technologies to be showcased at Le Bourget. Check out Finmeccanica's new advertising campaign. See in real-time how the events of the day unfold. Know how to find us at Le Bourget and check in with us on a regular basis to be a part of the action as it happens. Let the show begin!