Argotec, a Turin-based space company, has been selected by NASA to join the prestigious Rapid Spacecraft Acquisition Services programme, a major milestone that could lead to billions of pounds worth of orders for the Italian firm. This exclusive programme, boasting a budget of $6 billion and potential extension until 2030, comprises only four companies worldwide, with Argotec standing as the sole non-U.S. representative.
The selection is a testament to Argotec's strategic vision, including the establishment of a U.S. headquarters in Maryland and Florida, backed by $25 million in investments, and its proven capabilities demonstrated through successful NASA missions in 2022, such as documenting the first kinetic deviation of an asteroid.
Founder David Avino, recognising the increased demand this opportunity presents, announced that the company's previously planned hiring of 100 new employees would need to be significantly expanded. This is in addition to Argotec's ongoing robust expansion, marked by a €24 million investment in a new production site in Turin.
Argotec, founded in 2008, specialises in small satellites and astronaut comfort solutions. The company is already experiencing significant growth, expecting to more than double its 2023 revenue of €23 million this year. Current orders are valued at €50 million, but the potential share of NASA's substantial budget hints at even greater possibilities.
Avino expressed his enthusiasm about the opportunity, emphasising the potential for enormous growth and the recognition of Argotec's engineering excellence and dedication to research and innovation. This achievement also underscores the growing success of the Italian space supply chain, as noted by Francesco De Santis, Vice President for Research and Development of Confindustria, who praised Argotec's innovative capacity and its ability to compete globally.
