Italian space company Argotec opens Melbourne HQ with rapid hiring plans

Italian space company Argotec has established its U.S. headquarters and manufacturing hub in Melbourne, Florida, marking a strategic expansion into America’s space industry. The facility, opened in April 2026 within North Drive Industrial Park, specializes in designing, assembling, and servicing small satellites ranging from briefcase-sized to microwave-oven-sized models. Argotec’s proximity to Kennedy Space Center and Melbourne Airport positions it advantageously near key aerospace partners, including Northrop Grumman and L3Harris Technologies. The company’s U.S. operations are led by Corbett Hoenninger, who highlighted the Melbourne location’s ideal access to customers and infrastructure. Argotec’s solar-winged Hawk Lite microsatellite platform, used in NASA’s Artemis I and DART asteroid-impact missions, was showcased at the grand opening. With 20 of its 27 U.S.-based employees already stationed in Melbourne, Argotec plans to double staff by early 2027 and reach 70-80 employees by 2028, requiring additional space as demand grows. Argotec’s revenue surged 60% year-over-year in 2025, reaching $66 million, driven by its focus on modular, small-satellite production. The $25 million investment in U.S. operations underscores its commitment to scaling in Florida’s competitive space market. Bidding is underway for defense, NASA, and commercial contracts, aligning with the company’s long-term growth strategy. The move reflects a broader trend of international space firms establishing operations on Florida’s Space Coast. Amazon’s Leo project operates the world’s largest satellite processing facility at Kennedy Space Center, while Airbus U.S. Space & Defense expanded its Merritt Island plant by $85 million last year to support U.S. military satellite production. Argotec’s arrival further solidifies the region’s dominance in aerospace manufacturing and advanced technology. Lynda Weatherman, CEO of the Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast, emphasized the region’s appeal for companies seeking global competitiveness in aerospace. The expansion aligns with Florida’s strategic advantages, including proximity to NASA and a thriving ecosystem of aerospace contractors. Argotec’s entry reinforces the Space Coast’s role as a hub for innovation in satellite technology and space exploration.