MBI Welcomes R.I. Group Founder & President Salvatore Tafuro to the Industry’s Hall of Fame

One of the most critical moments in the company’s history came during the COVID-19 lockdown, when NATO’s NSPA requested R.I. Group to develop mobile field hospitals and modular bio-containment solutions.

These innovations were vital in saving lives during the pandemic, showcasing the company’s agility and innovative capacity in responding to global emergencies.

These milestones, along with strong partnerships with governments, international organizations like the UN, the European Union, and NATO, highlight the undeniable success of R.I. Group.

“During my career,” says Tafuro, “there have been several significant milestones I’m particularly proud of; each of them underscore the resilience required to deliver transformational solutions. One of the key moments was securing our first contract with the United Nations, which marked the beginning of an incredible journey. Another standout experience was the mission in Afghanistan, which included the construction of a military camp in extremely difficult conditions. Operating in a dangerous and war-torn environment, we faced numerous logistical and security challenges, making the successful completion of the project a major achievement. Lastly, securing my first contract with Leonardo for the development of mobile modular telescopic towers was a pivotal accomplishment, as it opened the door to several fruitful collaborations that followed. Each of these moments has shaped my career and contributed to my growth.”

Operating out of Puglia, Italy - a region more associated with agriculture and tourism than with industrial innovation - Salvatore Tafuro has turned R.I. Group into a shining example of industrial ingenuity. The company’s patented technologies include advanced bio-containment units, modular energy systems, and remote-controlled border control towers, each of which reflects a deep commitment to Italian design tradition and a forward-looking approach to solving complex global problems.

One of its most notable innovations is the development of the world’s first telescopic armored defense tower, a product that has been widely recognized and even envied internationally. This, along with other innovations like energy-autonomous modular housing, has garnered recognition from the Modular Building Institute itself, cementing R.I. Group’s status as a leader in the field.

R.I. Group has always placed corporate social responsibility at the heart of its operations, exemplified through its crisis-response activities both in Italy and abroad. During global emergencies, the company’s commitment to national welfare often takes precedence over internal economic interests.

The company’s engagement extends into the civil sector, supporting cultural and charitable initiatives, such as its sponsorship of Lecce Football Club, and contributions to the Umberto Veronesi Foundation. Furthermore, R.I. Group has donated modular churches to communities in Lebanon, Haiti, and Afghanistan, highlighting the company’s humanitarian efforts.