Aeronautics & Space
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A strategic hub in the heart of Europe
Wallonia, the southern region of Belgium, is a dynamic and outward looking territory where aerospace has become a key driver of innovation, industrial excellence and international cooperation. Located at the crossroads of France, Germany, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, the region offers direct access to the main EU markets and decision making centres within a few hundred kilometres.
This central position, combined with strong transport, industrial and research infrastructure, makes Wallonia an ideal base for international aerospace companies seeking to establish or expand their presence in Europe.
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A thriving aeronautics & space ecosystem
Aeronautics & space is one of Wallonia’s flagship industries. The regional ecosystem covers aeronautics, space and, increasingly, drones and unmanned systems, with a strong export orientation and a significant contribution to Wallonia’s industrial value creation.
At the centre of this ecosystem stands GIWAS, the Walloon Aeronautics and Space Industries Association (Groupement des Industries Wallonnes Aéronautiques et Spatiales). GIWAS is the single federation that brings together all Walloon aeronautics and space stakeholders under one roof. It was created by uniting the historical EWA network (Entreprises Wallonnes de l’Aéronautique) and the Wallonie Espace association, in order to carry one strong and unified voice at regional, federal and European levels.
Key figures for Aeronautics & space
+65
members federated, covering commercial aviation, space and defence.
3.5 billion €
in cumulative turnover
11.000
direct jobs
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GIWAS mission
GIWAS acts as the unified voice of Wallonia’s aeronautics and space sector. Its mission is to:
- Defend the interests of the sector with regard to public authorities at regional, federal and European levels.
- Connect companies with academic, scientific and institutional stakeholders.
- Strengthen the attractiveness of the aerospace value chain for talents, projects and investments.
- By federating industrial, academic and institutional players, GIWAS creates a structured framework for collaboration aimed at bringing forward the technologies, skills and solutions that will shape Wallonia’s future in the air and beyond.
GIWAS working groups
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