Middle East Space Roundup: 25 to 31 March 2024
A summary of all the space news in the Greater Middle East over the past week, brought to you by AzurX
The following are the major space developments in the Greater Middle East region tracked by Middle East Space Monitor over the past week:
Saudi Arabia Space Developments
Saudi Arabian Engineering Firm Partners with Australia’s Metakosmos Space Suit Company
Metakosmos, a space suit company based in Australia, has announced a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia’s engineering services firm Al Sanai, marking a significant move to expand its market reach. The collaboration aims to penetrate the Saudi Arabian and broader Middle Eastern space market, following Metakosmos's expansion plans in the United States and India. While specifics of the partnership remain undisclosed, Metakosmos highlighted Al Sanai's extensive local knowledge and resources, essential for navigating regulatory frameworks, cultural nuances, and market dynamics in the region. Al Sanai, known for its expertise in extreme environment monitoring platforms and applications, expressed enthusiasm for delivering cutting-edge technologies globally. Earlier, Metakosmos received a AUS$250,000 grant as part of the Moon to Mars Supply Chain Capability programme to enhance its Kosmosuit technology, emphasizing its terrestrial applications and aiming to establish connectivity between subsystems and proprietary bioastronautics interfaces for deployment across multiple centers.
Saudi Arabia’s CSTC Partners with International Academic Institutions for Space Training
Saudi Arabia's Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CSTC) has launched the Madarik programme, aiming to bolster national capabilities in the space sector through collaboration with international institutions. Scheduled from 5 May to 15 August 2024, the programme seeks to foster a sustainable future for the sector by leveraging the expertise of partner organizations to develop professional pathways for Saudi citizens. Designed in partnership with esteemed entities like the International Space University in France and the Georgia Institute of Technology in the United States, the programme offers specialized tracks in space business development, space data and software, and space engineering. While in-person courses will be held in Riyadh and Jeddah, virtual attendance is open to participants across the Kingdom. Eligibility requires Saudi nationality, a relevant bachelor's degree, proficiency in English, and meeting other registration criteria. The initiative underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to nurturing local talent and contributing to the growth of its space industry.
Space Sector is Cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Knowledge Economy
Saudi Arabia is strategically leveraging its space industry as a key component of its ongoing economic transformation, aiming to capitalize on the significant growth potential in this sector. With global space economy projections expected to reach $1 trillion in 2024, Saudi Arabia's space industry generated $400 million in revenue in 2022 and is forecasted to reach $2.2 billion annually by 2030. The country's Vision 2030 initiative emphasizes the creation of a robust knowledge economy through advanced scientific research and human development, aligning with its goals of becoming a global investment powerhouse. Space sciences offer diverse opportunities for innovation and investment, particularly in fields like health, transportation, and information technology. Saudi Arabia is actively pursuing diplomatic and commercial partnerships in the space sector, with recent developments such as the approval of a space tourism project by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CSTC). This initiative, set to commence in 2026, could potentially generate $600 million in revenue by 2030, showcasing the country's commitment to capitalizing on emerging trends in space tourism. Moreover, initiatives like the Middle East Space Graduate Programme and the participation of Saudi women in space missions highlight the country's commitment to fostering talent and diversity within the space industry. Ultimately, Saudi Arabia's strategic focus on space exploration and technology underscores its ambitions to solidify its position as a leading diplomatic and economic player on the global stage.
SpaceX Starlink Terminals in Yemen, Sudan, and Iran
SpaceX Starlink Terminals Turning Up in Yemen, Sudan Conflict Zones
Reports indicate that SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet terminals are being illicitly used and traded on the black market in countries with poor internet infrastructure, censorship, and political unrest, including Yemen, Sudan, and Venezuela. Despite lacking official agreements with SpaceX, individuals and groups in these regions rely on Starlink for communication and logistical support, with some reports suggesting usage by paramilitary groups and Russian troops in occupied territories. Concerns over the unregulated nature of this usage and the lack of accountability have been raised by experts, highlighting potential ethical and security implications. While SpaceX and the Kremlin have denied allegations of direct sales to Russia, intercepted communications from Ukrainian authorities suggest otherwise, indicating a complex web of illicit distribution and usage of Starlink terminals in conflict zones and authoritarian regimes. This underscores broader challenges in regulating and monitoring the global dissemination of satellite internet technology, particularly in sensitive geopolitical contexts.
ITU Scrutinises SpaceX for Smuggling Starlink SATCOM Terminals into Iran
SpaceX’s Starlink faces potential scrutiny from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for allegedly providing broadband service in Iran without authorization, as the Iranian government submitted a complaint to the ITU regarding this issue. This is not the first time Starlink has faced such complaints from Iran, where the government opposes independent efforts to bring internet connectivity to its populace. Smugglers have reportedly activated Starlink terminals in nearby countries where it is permitted, then transported them into Iran, prompting concerns over regulatory violations. The ITU, tasked with managing global spectrum usage, may intervene to address these concerns, highlighting the complex regulatory challenges faced by satellite internet providers like Starlink operating across international borders.
Other News
Israel’s SpacePharma Sends 10th Set of Experiments to the International Space Station
Israel’s SpacePharma has launched an experimental system to the International Space Station (ISS) to conduct 19 experiments to test the production of medical substances in microgravity conditions. The system, integrated into the ISS infrastructure by astronauts, will be operated remotely from SpacePharma's operations center in Herzliya. Among the experiments is the optimization of an antibody used in cancer treatment, expected to be more stable in space and thus requiring less frequent administration, potentially reducing hospitalizations. The venture, part of the company's tenth space mission, demonstrates SpacePharma's growing expertise in space-based pharmaceutical research, despite its small team of 12 individuals in Israel. With significant funding and support from entities like the Israeli Space Agency, SpacePharma is poised for further growth and aims to become a pharmaceutical company overseeing drug development from inception to production, leveraging the unique capabilities offered by microgravity environments in space.
CABSAT, the Premier Satellite Broadcasting Event, to Celebrate 30th Anniversary in UAE
CABSAT, the premier event for content, broadcast, satellite, media, and entertainment in the Middle East, is set to mark its 30th anniversary with a grand return to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 21 to 23 May 2024, alongside the second edition of Integrate Middle East. Over the years, CABSAT has adapted to the evolving trends and technologies in the MEASA region, offering insightful presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and product demonstrations. With the Middle East's media and entertainment market projected to reach $42.72 billion by 2024, CABSAT 2024 aims to unveil the future of content creation and distribution, attracting industry leaders and stakeholders from over 120 countries. The event will feature key components like the Content Congress, SATEXPO Summit, and NextGen Content, fostering innovation and strategic partnerships in the satellite and space community. Integrate Middle East will also return, highlighting the Pro AV market's growth and advancements in smart buildings technology, offering valuable insights and networking opportunities for attendees and exhibitors across various sectors. Abhishek Ganapathy, Director of the Dubai World Trade Centre, expressed excitement for the collaboration, anticipating newer avenues for exploring emerging market trends and fostering industry connections. As CABSAT celebrates its 30th anniversary, it remains committed to shaping the future of content creation and distribution in collaboration with industry leaders and stakeholders, continuing its legacy of business, networking, and knowledge sharing in the MEASA region.
Iran’s Chabahar Space Port Commences First Phase of Operations
Hassan Salariyeh, head of Iran’s space agency, has announced the commencement of the first phase of operations at the Chabahar space launch base in the new Islamic year, emphasizing its significance in expanding the country's access to various space orbits. Salariyeh highlighted that the Chabahar base, designed to facilitate access to multiple space orbits, is undergoing completion in several phases. He noted that the first phase of the Chabahar base will facilitate research and operational launches during the current Iranian year of 1403. With the deployment of this base and the initiation of launches, Iran's capabilities to reach different space orbits will significantly broaden. Salariyeh also mentioned the existence of other space bases under the Iranian Ministry of Defence and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ (IRGC) Aerospace Force, further underlining the country's commitment to enhancing its space infrastructure and capabilities.
Defense Services Marketing Council Working Group Visits UAE’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre
The Defense Services Marketing Council (DSMC) New Space Working Group's recent visit to the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) headquarters marks a significant step towards fostering innovation and collaboration in the realm of space exploration through strategic partnerships monthly. Attended by MBRSC leadership and members of the space industry community, the inaugural meeting served as a platform to exchange ideas and pave the way for future cooperation in space exploration endeavors. By leveraging the expertise of participants from academia, industry, and government, the working group aims to catalyze interdisciplinary collaboration and drive advancements in space research and technology. Discussions at the meeting covered various pertinent topics such as satellite technology, space missions, and international partnerships, with a focus on enhancing the UAE's global leadership in space exploration. Adnan Al Rais, Assistant Director General at MBRSC, emphasized the meeting's significance in reinforcing the center's commitment to innovation, collaboration, and excellence in space exploration, aiming to accelerate scientific discoveries and unlock new opportunities for advancement.
SCIT Group Partners with Xenesis to Expand SATCOM Services to Saudi Arabia, Türkiye
Space Communication for Information Technology Group (SCIT) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Xenesis, signaling a potential strategic partnership aimed at establishing an exclusive regional Networking-as-a-Service initiative focused on the Middle East, Africa, Türkiye, and India. Led by SCIT Group, the MoU positions both parties as pioneers in digital infrastructure, prioritizing global data movement through sustainable and scalable state-of-the-art technologies. The objectives of the MoU include exploring areas of cooperation to fulfill the region's global activity ambitions, such as developing a local ecosystem to transfer know-how to Saudi Arabia, jointly conceptualizing a global network infrastructure, and partnering with regional and global infrastructure service providers to address connectivity and speed gaps. Additionally, plans involve locally partnering with Saudi investment bodies to establish a manufacturing facility aligned with the Saudi Arabia 2030 vision strategic objectives. SCIT Group emphasizes its commitment to leveraging technology to transform industries and improve lives, with Xenesis CEO expressing enthusiasm for advancing telecommunications through laser-optics in space, aiming to enhance data transmission speed and security in the target regions.
Oman’s ETCO Space and Etlaq Spaceport Partner for Space and Satellite R&D
Omantel recently facilitated the signing ceremony of a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ETCO Space and Etlaq, aiming to explore collaboration in "Data Center" services and technology solutions. The MoU, signed by key representatives from both entities, outlines various cooperative efforts, including ETCO Space's utilization of launch providers operating from Etlaq for any payloads launched from Oman. Additionally, the agreement enables Etlaq to engage in research and development activities related to satellite technology and space propulsion at the space launch port, fostering capacity building and expertise exchange in the space sector. Notably, ETCO Space's operation of the first national satellite dedicated to capturing satellite images signifies a significant step in enhancing local capabilities and supporting sectors such as environmental inspection, agriculture, infrastructure management, and renewable energy. Omantel's existing partnership with ETCO Space to provide satellite services underscores its commitment to expanding digital services and investments in satellite image data, complementing its AI solutions and Internet of Things initiatives. Omantel's strategic integration of operations and expertise positions it as a leading telecommunications company, contributing to Oman Vision 2040 objectives through investments in emerging technologies and cutting-edge solutions.
Subsidiary of Israel’s Gilat Wins $5 Million U.S. Defense Department Contract
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., a leading provider of satellite networking solutions, has announced a significant $5 million order from the U.S. Department of Defense for its subsidiary, DataPath. This order is for the DKET 3421 terminals, which are transportable satcom hubs designed to meet the demanding requirements of mission-critical communications. The DKET 3421 terminals offer operational flexibility, capacity, connectivity, and control, supporting multi-carrier operations with scalable modem architecture and weighing under 2,268 kilograms. With quick deployment in less than three hours and the ability to leverage available satellite assets, these terminals provide a reliable solution for military and government customers. Barry W. Botts, Vice President of Sales and Business Development for DataPath, emphasized the significance of this order, highlighting the company's commitment to delivering high-performance solutions that meet customer needs effectively and reliably.
Bahrain’s National Space Science Authority Participates in UNOOSA Activities
Bahrain’s National Space Science Authority (NSSA) participated in a preparatory expert meeting for the upcoming international conference of the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA) in Vienna, Austria, in June 2024. Led by CEO Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim Al Asiri, the NSSA delegation, including Dr. Mohamed Jasim Al Othman and Shaikha Hessa bint Ali Al Khalifa, engaged in discussions alongside experts from member states, private sector space companies, research centers, and academia. Co-organized by Belgium and Luxembourg in collaboration with the United Nations Working Group on Legal Aspects of Space Resource Activities, the meeting explored topics such as future space resource activities, their environmental and economic impacts, and international cooperation in scientific research and technological development. Discussions also delved into unconventional lunar exploration ideas, emphasizing collaboration and resource utilization for sustainable infrastructure development on the moon and beyond. As Bahrain's representative in the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs since 2017, NSSA has actively contributed to various events and initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to advancing legal frameworks, developmental proposals, and technical definitions in space exploration.
Israeli GPS Jamming and Spoofing Impacts Civilian Aviation in Lebanon
Civilian aircraft landing at Beirut's airport are facing disruptions due to GPS jamming and spoofing reportedly initiated by Israel amid conflicts in the region. This interference poses navigation risks, compelling airliners to resort to alternative landing methods. The escalation in GPS disruptions coincides with geopolitical tensions, notably the war in Gaza and related conflicts. Recent incidents, such as a Turkish Airlines flight encountering difficulties during descent, underscore the operational challenges caused by reliance on GPS navigation. While conventional ground-based navigation systems offer a safe alternative, the prevalence of jamming and spoofing complicates flight operations, especially in conflict zones. European aviation authorities have flagged increased GPS disruptions, urging vigilance among air operators. Lebanon's response, advising against GPS use and advocating for conventional navigation, reflects concerns over flight safety and the impact on airline operations. The situation underscores broader issues of electronic warfare's impact on civilian aviation, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and preparedness among pilots and regulatory bodies.
U.S. Space Force Unit in Qatar Credited with Potentially Saving Lives against Regional Missile Threats
The establishment of Combat Detachment 3-1, a U.S. Space Force unit in the Middle East, signifies a significant development in enhancing the protection of deployed U.S. troops against enemy missile threats. Led by Lt. Col. Deane Lake, the unit utilizes satellite-based sensors to provide timely warnings to troops, enabling them to take necessary defensive measures. Co-located at the Combined Air and Space Operations Center at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the detachment has played a crucial role in safeguarding troops amidst escalating tensions and attacks in the region. Lake's deployment coincided with heightened conflict dynamics, including drone and rocket attacks on U.S. bases, highlighting the critical need for advanced warning systems. While specific examples were not disclosed, the unit's efforts have been credited with detecting missile launches, potentially saving lives. This consolidation of U.S. Space Force personnel and their integration into military decision-making processes is expected to streamline information sharing and could serve as a model for future deployments, showcasing the evolving role of the U.S. Space Force in enhancing national security capabilities.
Egypt’s Nilesat Reports 12% Rise in Profits in 2023
Nilesat, Egypt’s leading satellite operator, reported a notable increase in profits, with a 12% rise to $43.754 million for the fiscal year ending 31 December 2023, compared to $38.967 million in 2022. This growth coincided with a 2% increase in revenues from operations, reaching $101.825 million. The company's strategic decision to invest in treasury bills and government bonds in foreign currencies significantly contributed to maximizing cash balance benefits, resulting in a substantial increase in interest income on the balance sheet. Moreover, Nilesat achieved various non-financial milestones, including obtaining prestigious certifications like the World Teleport Association (WTA) global certificate for its ground station and the ISO 9001 certificate in quality management systems, aligning with its commitment to excellence in governance and quality management. Chairman and Managing Director Sameh Qattah underscored the importance of investing in human resources to sustain the company's success trajectory, emphasizing skills development and leadership readiness for future growth. Qattah expressed gratitude to the employees and board members for their contributions to Nilesat's continuous development and modernization efforts, reaffirming its position as a leading satellite operator in the Middle East and Africa.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!