ASD, AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association of Europe, represents the aeronautics, space, and defence industries in Europe. ASD has 28 member associations in 20 European countries, and represents over 2000 companies with a further 80 000 suppliers, many of which are SMEs. www.asd-europe.org

The European aeronautics, space and defence Industry at a glance:

Employment: around 676 000 in aerospace & defence

Industry Turnover: over €137 billion.