ROKETSAN focused on international cooperation at the 77th International Space Congress organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) in Antalya. Held under the coordination of the Ministry of Industry and Technology, with the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) and SAHA Istanbul as co-hosts, the event brought together numerous space agencies and technology companies from around the world. ROKETSAN's General Manager outlined the satellite launch systems being developed to provide Turkey with independent access to space.

ROKETSAN's primary mission is to ensure Turkey's independent access to space, the General Manager stated, adding that the company is developing the ŞIMŞEK 1 and ŞIMŞEK 2 Satellite Launch System projects for this purpose. ŞIMŞEK 1 is designed to carry a 400-kilogram satellite to space, while ŞIMŞEK 2 is engineered to launch larger, 1.5-ton satellites. These systems represent critical components of Turkey's space technology localization and independence objectives. Discussions at the congress addressed cooperation opportunities regarding developed subsystems and the launch of international payloads.

ROKETSAN established Turkey's first Space Center of Excellence in 2020. This center plays a central role in developing critical subsystems including space engines, liquid-fueled propulsion systems, solid-fueled boosters, navigation and control mechanisms, and gas propulsion systems. Engineers at the center conduct research and development of these technologies within ROKETSAN's own facilities. Since space technologies are generally restricted from international sharing, developing indigenous research and development capacity holds strategic importance.

Achieving Turkey's independent access to space requires not only ROKETSAN but also collaborative efforts from an ecosystem comprising universities and private sector companies throughout the country. ROKETSAN's General Manager emphasized the importance of this ecosystem, highlighting joint technology development efforts. Given the limited international sharing of space technologies among nations, strengthening indigenous research and development capacity and increasing cooperation within the industrial ecosystem are critical factors. The subsystems displayed at the congress demonstrate ROKETSAN's achievements in this field and its openness to international partnerships.

The participation of leading space agencies worldwide made the congress a valuable platform for international cooperation. Turkey has repeatedly expressed its desire to collaborate in both satellite launch and satellite development. Agreements signed at the conclusion of the congress could strengthen Turkey's international position in the space sector. The space industry is an area where international cooperation is accelerating, and Turkey's presence and partnership capacity in this field are significant for the nation's technological independence.