A report from the new Industry Observatory of the Barcelona Chamber of Commerce reveals that Sabadell hosts around twenty companies operating in sectors deemed strategic by the European Union. These firms are primarily involved in dual-use technologies, applicable to both civilian and defense purposes, establishing the city as an emerging hub in fields such as aerospace, advanced telecommunications, cybersecurity, and autonomous systems.
The report cites examples like Advanced Telecommunications Systems (ATS), a participant in European Space Agency (ESA) programs, and Aldoratech, with extensive experience in complete aerial systems and autonomous vehicles. These companies are crucial within the value chain of Catalan New Space and the drone sector.
The thirteenth edition of the Forum of Technologies and Innovation, recently held at the Centre d’Empreses Industrials de Can Roqueta, focused on the opportunities within the aerospace sector. This event is part of Sabadell's commitment to developing the Aeronautical Hub, an initiative aimed at positioning the city and the Vallès region as a center for aeronautical innovation and space technologies.
During the forum, it was emphasized that Sabadell and the Vallesos region possess the necessary conditions to become a leading player in the aerospace economy, supported by an ecosystem comprising industrial companies, technology centers, universities, and specialized talent.
“"I hope that in ten years we will no longer be debating whether the Vallès has an aerospace industry or not. I hope we will be discussing the role this industry plays within Europe and Catalonia's positioning in the European aerospace ecosystem."
Alba Badia, Business Development Manager at Pangea Aerospace, highlighted the rapid evolution of the Catalan space sector, moving from student-built rockets to the development of satellites and rocket engines within Catalonia.
The significance of space as a transversal industry was another key point. Connectivity, telecommunications, Earth observation, and navigation are increasingly reliant on space technologies.
“"Right now, we are laying the foundations for exponential growth. The foundations are there. We have knowledge, we have talent, we have companies, and we are ready to do it."
The need to strengthen ties between universities and businesses was underscored. Ester Comellas advocated for a closer relationship, where universities serve as a source of knowledge, applied research, and technological transfer.
The lack of a specialized industrial supplier chain was also noted, ranging from engineers to prototype manufacturers and surface treatment specialists. Alba Badia added the necessity of developing new advanced materials and capabilities in metallic additive manufacturing.
Despite the challenges, the final message was markedly optimistic. Alba Badia asserted that "the opportunities are there. We just need to roll up our sleeves," while Joan Martorell expressed confidence in the significant role Catalonia can play both nationally and in Europe.
The event also featured presentations of innovative projects, including Smart Heliport for heliport digitalization, space system validation by Asoindel, an ultralight airship for healthcare assistance by Càtedra UNESCO - UPC, microfluidics technologies from UPC-CTMECH, and VTOL platforms and interceptor drones from ROHU Innovations designed in Terrassa.
