Mind Uncharted Explore. Discover. Learn.
The 75-Year History of Leonardo
Leonardo, formerly known as Finmeccanica and established on 18 March 1948, has become an important contributor to the development of Italy’s manufacturing industry since the end of the Second World War. The company has played a crucial role in the aerospace, defence, and security industry and has made significant contributions to Italy’s economic, social, and cultural development.
The book “Leonardo. Motore industriale e frontiera tecnologica dell’Italia” offers a unique interpretation of the company’s 75-year history. Written by Paolo Bricco, correspondent of Il Sole 24 Ore, and published by il Mulino, the book highlights the impact of Leonardo in Italian manufacturing.
According to Bricco, “Leonardo is an expression of its age, of the age of globalisation and hypertechnological capitalism, as well as of the age of Italy, making an essential contribution to the physiology of the country’s industry”.
The Five Key Moments in Leonardo’s History
The book points out that five key moments have defined the evolution of Leonardo over the years:
1948 – The Beginning
In 1948, the company began operating under the name of Finmeccanica. This coincided with the country’s beginnings in the thermoelectric and mechanical industry, and shipbuilding, leading the way in the country’s post-war reconstruction.
1960s-1980s – Aerospace and Electronics Industry Focus
During these years, the company focused on the aerospace and electronics industry, and the mass market for automobiles following the separation of the shipbuilding industry.
Late 1990s – Early 2000s – Consolidation of Aerospace, Defence, and Security Industries
During this period, the company consolidated its Aerospace, Defence, and Security industries, with a focus on international expansion in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Poland.
After 2005 – International Expansion
After 2005, the company continued its international expansion, strengthening its presence in the aerospace, defence, and security industries. The company established new partnerships and acquired new businesses to maximize its investment capacity.
2013 – Consolidation of Assets
The end of 2013 marked the consolidation of assets and reorganisation into “One Company” to meet the requirements of competitiveness and investment capacity, embracing innovative lines of business and technological cycles.
Conclusion
Leonardo has played an essential role in the development of Italy’s manufacturing industry, with its impact felt in the aerospace, defence, and security industries. Its history is characterised by strategic technologies, and the book “Leonardo. Motore industriale e frontiera tecnologica dell’Italia” offers a unique interpretation of Leonardo and its significance in the Italian economy.
