Il title Leonardo closes down at Piazza Affari (-1,06%), but the balance sheet since the beginning of the year continues to be impressive: +80%. In addition to its defense-related business and excellent financial results, the shares have also been driven in recent months by a constant flow of good commercial news. Among these, a potential new order from Airbus for division aerostructures of the group, already a supplier of structural components for the A321 and A220 models. According to Radiocor, the French group, which has just received an order for eight A321s from the Greek flag carrier Aegean Airlines, is reportedly finalizing a further order for A220 components, which will be manufactured in the division's Nola and Pomigliano plants. The contract should provide further support to the Aerostructures activities, where Leonardo is pursuing a reorganization process to reduce dependence on Boeing orders.
However, he explains Radiocor, the defense giant did not comment on the rumor about the new order. “It is not Airbus policy to comment on rumors related to its supply chains and procurement,” the French group responded.
The relaunch of the Aerostructures division
The potential deal with Airbus comes at a crucial time for the Aerostructures Division of Leonardo, who is going through a process of revival under the leadership of CEO Roberto Cingolani. The stated goal is to expand the division, focusing on strategic alliances at an international level to become a reference partner in the global manufacturing sector.
In 2024, the division recorded revenues of 746 million euros, but also recorded an operating loss of 168 million and orders of 692 million. However, the prospects for 2025 appear more favorable, with the forecast of a resumption of aircraft deliveries Boeing (B787) and Airbus (A220). In the meantime, the group is preparing a recovery plan which includes the entry of a new partner strategic, with the Saudi Arabia Sovereign Wealth Fund among the main candidates.
From Helicopters to Satellites
Meanwhile, last Thursday, the group also announced new orders for approximately 30 helicopters of different models, destined for operators in Europe, the Americas, Africa and the Asia-Pacific region. The total value of the orders amounts to approximately 370 million euros, with deliveries expected between 2026 and 2028, adding a further piece to Leonardo’s commercial success.
Added to these successes are the initiatives in the sector space, with negotiations underway with Thales e Airbus for the creation of a European group of satellites, intended to compete with Elon Musk's StarlinkThe group plans to launch 18 military satellites and 20 civil satellites for Earth observation, with a total investment of over 900 million euros.
(Last update: 18.07 pm on 17 March).
