Italian government opposes Safran’s proposed acquisition of Collins Aerospace’s actuation and flight control business

Safran has been informed of the Italian government’s decision to oppose the sale of Collins Aerospace’s actuation and flight control business to the French company. Under the so-called ‘Golden Power’ foreign direct investments regime, the Italian government has the power to limit or prevent foreign direct investments and corporate transactions involving sovereign assets it perceives may threaten national economic security. “This decision came as a surprise,” a spokesperson from Safran explained to Airline Economics, referencing the French’s company’s “existing successful and long term business relationship with all Italian aerospace and defense players” including Leonardo, Avio and Agusta. Clarifying the involvement