Proximities at the aerospace complex of São José dos Campos (Brazil)

Abstract

Purpose The formation of an aerospace complex in São José dos Campos (SP-Brazil) reflects a process of path dependence, which has favored sectorial technological development and innovation. In this sense, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the pattern of relationships established between Embraer, the Technological Institute of Aeronautics, the National Institute of Space Research (INPE) and the institutes linked to the Aerospace Technical Center (CTA). Design/methodology/approach Using patents as a proxy for inventive activity, the authors carried out social networks analysis based on collaboration maps elaborated considering co-assignees in institutional patents. Findings Over time, Embraer became the main inventor of patentable technologies and a central player in the network of the aerospace complex at São José dos Campos. Research limitations/implications Several public institutions analyzed pertain to the Brazilian Ministry of Defence. Therefore, inventive activity may be confidential, which implies a limitation in the analysis. Originality/value With acquisition of Embraer by the US company Boeing, there could be a loss of the company's technical capacity in product development. The paper argues that the aerospace complex itself might also be impacted, considering that Embraer is the most relevant inventor of patentable knowledge locally in recent decades.