SAFE Cluster

A dynamic aerospace ecosystem bringing together Airbus Helicopters, Safran, Dassault, Guimbal (helicopter manufacturer) and nearly 150 SMEs, as well as major MRO players like Sabena Technics and JJGK, plus companies in UAVs, light aviation and airships.

SAFE focuses on low-carbon aviation: sustainable fuels, airships enabling zero-carbon operations, electric drones and light aircraft, and reducing environmental impact across the entire lifecycle of these aerial platforms.

Since 2016, SAFE cluster has focused on 4 main areas: Aeronautics, Space, Security, and Defense. It has developed a strong activity of emergence, structuring and support of innovation projects in all these strategic business areas.

SAFE is based in Aix-en-Provence, Toulon and Sophia-Antipolis, in the South Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur region. While 65% of its members are based in the south-eastern region, it also counts with members in other parts of France.

Around 200 members, from which: 80% SMEs 4% large compagnies 4% academics 9% partners and associated entities (such as Team Henri Fabre)

ONERA, CNRS, Aix Marseille University (AMU), ENSAM

Region Sud

With more than 25,000 employees in the region, this sector is the largest industry in the South Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur region.

Association / non-profit SME

Public / private

• Thales Alenia Space (TAS)
• Airbus Helicopters
• Guimbal
• Safran
• Dassault
• ADS 

• EAE (Air & Space School)
• CEA - INRIA
• CNRS and AMU with related laboratories
• ONERA