The Galician defence industry now comprises more than 200 companies, according to the employers' association Asime. The sector's revenue in Galicia reached €500 million in 2024.
More than 200 companies from Galicia are already working, either directly or indirectly, in the defence and security sector, as stated by Justo Sierra, president of Asime, according to information published by atlantico.net. The path was opened by the shipyard Navantia Ferrol, with the construction of vessels, and the company Urovesa, with military all-terrain vehicles.
The group SedDefense, led by Sierra, brings together around fifty companies. Sierra explained to the media that investments require tools that enable continued growth:
«It is more necessary than ever to have tools that allow us to continue developing investments»
From the Ministry of Economy, Rafael Coloma, deputy director general of International Defence Trade, pointed out that Galicia has a strong industry and a growing development of SMEs, some large and others smaller, especially in the technological field. He made this statement at a conference organised by Asime and Zona Franca on the control of defence exports and dual-use products.
Coloma emphasised the relationship between defence and the European industry:
«The only way to have a strong defence is to have a strong industry in Europe»
The goods that are controlled include aircraft, vessels, weapons, electronic systems, and satellite telecommunications systems for military purposes. Due to their impact on national and international security, their foreign trade is subject to strict control.
The delegate of the Zona Franca Consortium, David Regades, highlighted the number of companies in the Consortium's parks that are dedicated to this sector. He described the opportunity that is opening up for the industry in southern Galicia as a «great opportunity» and noted that companies are already consulting the Consortium on this matter.
Coloma also warned about artificial intelligence, which he defined as «a double-edged sword» due to its potential use for offensive purposes. At the same time, he considered that it can help Galician companies strengthen their security and develop marketable solutions in international markets.
According to data from the national employers' association Tedae, the revenue of the defence industry in Galicia reached €500 million in the 2024 fiscal year. In Spain, the sector exports between 60 and 70% of its production.
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