SABCA

What we do: SABCA is a leading Belgian aerospace company specializing in the design, construction, and modernization of complex components for aircraft and space launchers. Our expertise spans metallic and composite aerostructures, advanced thrust vectoring systems, and depot-level maintenance and upgrades for military aircraft such as the F-16. We serve prestigious global clients including Airbus, Dassault Aviation, Gulfstream, and Arianespace, contributing to major programs like the Airbus A380 and A350, Dassault business jets, and European space launchers Ariane and Vega.

Where we are located: Our headquarters are located at Dellestraat 32, 3560 Lummen, Belgium. We operate multiple sites across Belgium including Brussels, Charleroi, Lummen, and Louvain-la-Neuve, with subsidiaries such as SABCA Limburg and SABCA Technologies. We also hold a majority stake in ASM Aero in Casablanca, Morocco.

Short history: Founded in 1920, SABCA began by designing and building aircraft for Belgium’s emerging air transport. Post-World War II, we became a key partner in Belgian military aircraft programs including the Hunter, F-84, F-104G, Dassault Mirage 5, and Lockheed F-16. Since 1955, we have been active in European space programs, manufacturing major elements for the European Spacelab and launchers Ariane and Vega. Our civil aircraft activities expanded significantly from 1989 with Airbus risk-sharing contracts, establishing SABCA as a major aerospace supplier.

Organization & culture: SABCA employs approximately 650 people at the mother company, with a total workforce larger when including subsidiaries. Our culture is built on innovation, quality, and collaboration, fostering continuous improvement and teamwork. We invest heavily in skills development and R&D partnerships, such as with UC Louvain, to maintain leadership in aerospace technologies.

Recent developments: In 2022, SABCA established SABCA Technologies, a subsidiary focused on next-generation electro-mechanical actuation systems for aviation, space, and drones. This initiative strengthens our position as a European leader in advanced aerospace actuation systems, preparing innovative products that move beyond traditional hydraulic technologies.