Franco Alfonsetti

Franco Alfonsetti

  • Head of Test Solutions Engineering
  • Leonardo Electronics Division, Italy

With extensive experience in test engineering and technological innovation, I lead the engineering department responsible for designing advanced validation solutions in avionics, defence, and other complex systems within strategic programs. My approach looks toward the future and innovation in a structured, pragmatic way, with a focus on modularity, scalability, reliability, and operational excellence. In 2023, I led the development of the first fully operational framework for an Intelligent Testing Ecosystem, integrating hardware sensors and software functions to introduce predictive monitoring and enable preventive maintenance of Test Systems. The result: it is now adopted as a reference model for emerging industrial standards in avionics environments.

Key Expertise & Specializations
– Design and deployment of modular, intelligent ATE (Automatic Test Equipment)
– Technical-managerial vision focused on performance and ROI (Return of Investment)
– Multidisciplinary coordination in high-responsibility environments

Professional highlights
– Leader of the winning team for the “Leonardo Innovation Award 2025” in the “Customer Support, Services & Training” category with the groundbreaking “METIS Concept”, a visionary approach to intelligent test ecosystems.
– Program Leader of the MCTE (Modular Core Test Equipment) team, a strategic pillar within the international GCAP (Global Combat Air Programme), driving 6th generation in avionics testing solutions.
– Over 25 years of experience in Aerospace & Defence, with a proven track record in developing advanced Test Systems and Customer Support Solutions in different domains.
– Recognized for merging innovation with operational excellence and considered a leading voice in Digital Transformation, Model-Based Engineering, and AI integration in Testing Environments.

Sessions

  • Model-Driven Testing and Certification: Digital Twins, Tools, and Languages for Next-Gen Avionics

    The Strategic Shift in Avionic Validation – Towards the Testing Ecosystem

    Advanced avionics systems demand a shift in how we test and certify software. This session explores the rise of model-driven approaches—spanning digital twins, simulation, and model-based testing—alongside emerging tools and languages like Rust and CHERI. These technologies promise improved scalability, security, and assurance, but also raise new challenges for validation and certification. How can simulation, virtualization, and automation shape the verification processes, and how are standards like ED-12C/DO-178C and ED-215/DO-330 adapting to support tool qualification and digital validation? How do we validate digital models? What qualifies as a certifiable toolchain? This session explores the convergence of advanced testing technologies and modern certification frameworks.