Research & development
Shaping the future of aviation
Investment in research and development (R&D) plays a key role in maintaining the competitiveness of the European aeronautics and defence industries, and is the basis for technological innovations that help to fulfil our mission: reaching net zero aviation in Europe by 2050, and protecting Europe against internal and externals threats. In 2022 alone, the R&D expenditure on aeronautics and defence from both industry and governments was estimated at €23.2bn.
In aeronautics, ASD is involved in the two EU Joint Undertakings SESAR and Clean Aviation –research projects that aim for more efficient and digital air traffic management and support the decarbonisation of aviation.Â
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- The SESAR 3 Joint UndertakingSESAR defines, develops and deploys technologies to transform air traffic management in Europe.
- The Clean Aviation Joint UndertakingThe Clean Aviation JU will develop disruptive new aircraft technologies to support the European Green Deal, and climate neutrality by 2050.
- EU Air Transport ResearchWhy the EU supports research and innovation in air transport.