Avio USA Inc., the American branch of Italian aerospace company Avio S.p.A., has announced plans to establish a new advanced manufacturing facility in Virginia. The proposed 860,000-square-foot plant will focus on producing solid rocket motors for both defense and commercial space propulsion sectors. The investment, which could reach up to $500 million, is backed by Avio S.p.A.’s recent capital raise of 400 million euros. Final site selection and approvals are expected early next year.
Governor Glenn Youngkin expressed his appreciation for the decision, stating, “I want to thank Avio USA for choosing Virginia. Today’s announcement marks another exciting milestone for our aerospace and defense industry. Avio USA’s decision to build a new rocket motor manufacturing facility here is both an important investment in America’s national security infrastructure and underscores Avio USA’s confidence in Virginia.”
Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger also commented on the development: “As we enter a new chapter for the Commonwealth, Avio’s commitment to Virginia demonstrates the future we’re building — innovative, competitive, and rooted in strong partnerships. This kind of investment leverages Virginia’s strengths, and I’m committed to continuing the momentum of creating good jobs and fostering sustainable growth for the Commonwealth.”
VADM (Ret.) James Syring, CEO of Avio USA, said, “This factory will help to contribute needed capacity for solid rocket motors today and into the future, meeting critical National Security requirements. We are extremely excited about the opportunities in the Commonwealth of Virginia and look forward to working closely with both the Commonwealth and local governments to facilitate bringing the new factory to life.”
Giulio Ranzo, CEO of Avio S.p.A., stated: “Avio looks forward to establishing on U.S. soil a solid rocket motor production facility to contribute in strengthening the U.S. industrial base by providing decades of experience in engineering and manufacturing. In particular, we are thankful for the Commonwealth and local governments’ warm welcome for our project and count on their future support for effective execution.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura highlighted economic benefits: “This project will not only strengthen America’s leadership in space and defense technology, but it will bring high-quality jobs and long-term economic growth to our region. We’re proud to support this expansion and look forward to the opportunities it will create for families and businesses across our state.”
Delegate Luke Torian emphasized collaboration as key: “Virginia’s success in advanced manufacturing is rooted in our talented workforce and the strong partnerships between state, local, and private-sector leaders. Avio’s investment in Virginia is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together to support innovation, expand opportunity, and build a more competitive future for the Commonwealth.”
Senator L. Louise Lucas added: “Avio’s investment in a new rocket motor manufacturing facility will bring highly skilled jobs, advanced technology, and long-term opportunity to the Commonwealth. I’m proud of the collaboration that made this possible and delighted to welcome Avio to the Commonwealth of Virginia.”
Founded near Rome in 1912, Avio S.p.A specializes in designing launch systems and propulsion components used globally. The company established its U.S.-based subsidiary—Avio USA Inc.—in Arlington in 2022 as part of its strategy targeting North American markets. Since 2024, operations have been conducted under a Special Security Agreement with federal authorities.
The broader Avio group maintains facilities across Italy, France, United States locations including Arlington since 2022 (operating under regulatory oversight), as well as at Europe’s primary spaceport located in French Guiana.
