Türkiye has taken another strategic step toward strengthening its domestic capabilities in space and satellite technologies through a new cooperation between TÜRKSAT and ROKETSAN. The “Cooperation Protocol in the Field of Satellite Launch and Space Systems” signed between the two institutions aims to develop capabilities in satellite communication systems, launch technologies, access to orbit, design and production processes.

The cooperation is considered an important milestone for Türkiye’s National Space Program. By combining TÜRKSAT’s experience in satellite communications and operations with ROKETSAN’s expertise in rockets, missiles and launch technologies, Türkiye aims to build a more integrated and independent national space ecosystem. This partnership is expected to support the country’s long-term goal of reducing foreign dependence in access to space and satellite infrastructure.

According to information compiled from TÜRKSAT’s 2025 Annual Report, the company provides solutions not only for Türkiye’s satellite communication needs but also for military and institutional demands abroad. Within a project carried out for the Ministry of Defence of Uzbekistan, field requirements and system architecture were evaluated for the establishment of satellite communication infrastructure. Hardware shipments were completed last year, and Ku-band gateway satellite ground station, mobile and fixed terminal installations were also completed. The system is expected to become operational this year.

TÜRKSAT continues to meet the secure and uninterrupted communication needs of national and international military institutions through value-added services. Domestic and international demands are met through Türkiye’s national satellite fleet, while global partnerships are used to provide services in regions outside the company’s coverage area. This approach has turned satellite communication into a strategic revenue area for TÜRKSAT. Revenue generated through global partnerships increased from 3.4 million dollars in 2024 to 7.1 million dollars in 2025.

TÜRKSAT’s satellite data communication capability goes beyond being a simple capacity provider. With approximately 7,600 terminals reached across corporate, public, maritime and mobile platforms, the company demonstrates strong operational competence and market reliability. Its continued service delivery in many African countries also shows Türkiye’s growing regional and global influence in satellite communication infrastructure.

Another notable development is Türkiye’s first-ever applications to the International Telecommunication Union for Low Earth Orbit and Medium Earth Orbit constellation satellite systems. These applications for LEO and MEO constellation projects carry strategic importance in securing orbital and spectrum rights. Through these efforts, TÜRKSAT aims to provide more diverse and flexible services using multi-orbit satellite systems.

The cooperation with ROKETSAN will bring together TÜRKSAT’s satellite communication capabilities with national engineering expertise in launch and space systems. Under the protocol, the two institutions will share experience, transfer applicable technologies to industry and jointly carry out projects when needed. They will also work together to ensure that developed products can be used in satellite and space programs under their respective responsibilities.

This partnership is critical for Türkiye’s goal of reducing foreign dependence in the space domain. Developing satellite production, communication infrastructure, launch technologies, ground stations and access-to-orbit capabilities in a complementary structure will support a more holistic national space ecosystem. TÜRKSAT’s communication and satellite operations experience, combined with ROKETSAN’s launch technology expertise, could give Türkiye greater independence in space.

TÜRKSAT’s observatory activities and international collaborations are also part of this broader space vision. Routine observation activities continued successfully last year, while international observation campaigns with research groups from different countries were supported. Cooperation efforts that initially focused on neighboring countries and Turkic republics are being expanded toward the Arabian Peninsula and African countries, showing Türkiye’s growing geographic influence in space and observation infrastructure.

The strategic partnership between TÜRKSAT and ROKETSAN represents an important step in uniting Türkiye’s space communication, launch and system development capabilities under a common goal. Their joint work in domestic and international satellite communication and space projects will support the National Space Program while also providing new capabilities for defence, communications and critical infrastructure security.