ASELSAN unveiled its GÖKBAĞI satellite constellation comprising 198 satellites for low Earth orbit (LEO) operations at the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026). The project represents a strategic initiative to strengthen Turkey's independence in space technology. ASELSAN General Manager Ahmet Akyol presented project details at the congress, emphasizing that the satellite constellation will provide services in communications, navigation, and other critical domains.

ASELSAN holds a leading position in Turkey's defense industrial ecosystem, particularly in electronic systems, communications, and space technologies. The company has invested extensively in space technology over many years, developing satellite platforms, payloads, and related infrastructure solutions. ASELSAN's current portfolio includes communications satellites, navigation systems, and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) payloads. The GÖKBAĞI project represents the advancement of the company's space capabilities to the next level.

The GÖKBAĞI constellation is designed based on LEO architecture, comprising 198 satellites that will operate collectively to provide broad coverage and continuous service. ASELSAN General Manager Akyol emphasized that many critical satellite components are designed and developed by the company. Notably, the design of BFIC (Beamforming Integrated Circuit) chips by ASELSAN enables maximization of frequency efficiency. These chips employ advanced microelectronics technology to focus radio waves in specific directions, a critical capability for satellite communications systems.

From Turkey's defense industry perspective, the GÖKBAĞI project represents a critical step toward independence in space-based communications and navigation. The initiative demonstrates domestic design and manufacturing capacity in satellite constellation technology. The ability to provide services from space in communications, navigation, and other domains will enhance Turkey's strategic autonomy. ASELSAN maintains a high localization rate on this project, with critical components designed and developed in-house. The project exemplifies concrete outcomes of research and development investments.

LEO satellite constellations are rapidly proliferating globally. SpaceX's Starlink, Amazon's Project Kuiper, and other international initiatives operate in this domain. GÖKBAĞI enables Turkey to develop its own independent system in this competitive field. The project is scheduled for initial satellite launches in 2028-2029. ASELSAN aims for the constellation to become operational on a phased basis during this timeframe. The project represents the extension of Turkey's vision for space technology localization and independence into the orbital domain.