Avio USA Inc., a subsidiary of the global aerospace company Avio S.p.A., has selected Virginia as the site for a new advanced manufacturing facility. The announcement was made by Governor Glenn Youngkin, who said the planned 860,000-square-foot plant will produce solid rocket motors for both defense and commercial space propulsion sectors. The investment is expected to reach up to $500 million, supported by Avio S.p.A.’s recent capital raise.
Governor Youngkin stated, “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 added, “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, commented on the significance of the project: “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., noted: “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 emphasized 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 highlighted collaboration between stakeholders: “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 echoed these sentiments: “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 in 1912 near Rome, Italy, Avio S.p.A specializes in designing space launch systems and propulsion components with facilities located across Italy, France, United States, as well as at Europe’s Spaceport in French Guiana.
Avio USA Inc., established in Arlington in 2022 specifically for North American operations—and operating since 2024 under a Special Security Agreement with federal authorities—will finalize its site selection early next year.
