The importance of space has grown exponentially in recent decades, driving technological advancements, scientific progress, and economic development. From geolocation and communication to environmental monitoring and defense, space-based technologies are now integral to modern society. Italy, a key player in the European Union’s space economy, has positioned itself as a leader through strategic investments and policy initiatives. Over the past five years, Italy has invested nearly €10 billion in satellites, launchers, and space applications, integrating space technologies with AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. This commitment underscores the nation’s efforts to strengthen its strategic independence while enhancing its industrial capacity across multiple technological sectors.
Italy’s space economy is not only fostering innovation but also expanding scientific research, attracting private investment, and increasing public awareness. Recognizing space as a critical domain, Italy has recently released new guidelines on space and aerospace, reinforcing its leadership through national strategy, governance, and investment. The Italian Space Agency (ASI) plays a crucial role in ensuring that Italy remains at the forefront of technological advancements, particularly in areas like Earth observation, telecommunications, navigation, and space exploration. Furthermore, Italy has been actively involved in NATO and the EU’s security initiatives, recognizing space as a key factor in national and global security. Beyond industrial and security interests, Italy has leveraged space as a diplomatic tool, strengthening international partnerships and expanding its influence beyond Europe.
Reports from the Parliamentary Committee for the Security of the Republic (COPASIR) emphasize the importance of space in scientific, economic, and military competition. Italy has prioritized space diplomacy to reinforce its foreign policy objectives, fostering collaborations with emerging and established space nations. To support its space ambitions, Italy has proposed a sovereign wealth fund dedicated to dual-use applications, balancing commercial and defense needs. The country is also focusing on emerging fields like Low Earth Orbit commercialization, space logistics, debris management, and cybersecurity. Recognizing the role of start-ups and SMEs in driving innovation, Italy is working to simplify access to funding and create a strong regulatory framework that encourages investment.
Education and research are pivotal in sustaining Italy’s space strategy. Universities, research institutions, and private companies are actively involved in advancing knowledge and technology, ensuring a skilled workforce for the space economy. The use of satellite data for socio-economic and environmental applications highlights the importance of long-term planning and cross-sector collaboration. Raising public awareness of space activities is also key to ensuring institutional and societal support for space initiatives. Cambodia may not yet have a well-developed space sector, but it stands to gain valuable insights from Italy’s approach.
Developing a national space strategy aligned with economic and strategic interests should be a priority. Space can drive economic growth by supporting start-ups, fostering innovation, and promoting public-private partnerships. Moreover, space diplomacy offers Cambodia an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation and its international standing. Investing in education and research in fields like engineering, data analytics, and satellite applications will be crucial for developing expertise and advancing scientific collaboration. Space technology can also provide immediate socio-economic benefits for Cambodia in areas such as disaster management, agriculture, and connectivity.
For Cambodia, space is not just about the distant future—it is an opportunity for immediate and long-term development. By drafting its own space and aerospace guidelines, Cambodia can lay the foundation for a thriving space sector that contributes to national progress and regional leadership.
Read the full article on Cambodianess, written by Dr. Riccardo Corrado.
