Middle East Space Roundup: 27 May to 2 June 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’s PIF Launches Neo Space Group
Saudi Arabia’s PIF Creates Neo Space Group for Space Sector Strategic Investments
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has announced the establishment of Neo Space Group (NSG), a wholly owned company aimed at becoming a national leader in the satellite and space sector, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030. NSG's mission is to bolster the country's space capabilities by fostering local expertise and expanding its presence in the global space economy. NSG aims to advance sector-specific knowledge and technologies through strategic investments in local and international assets and venture capital opportunities. The group will focus on four key business segments: satellite communications, Earth observation and remote sensing, satellite navigation and Internet of Things, and a satellite and space-focused venture capital fund. This move represents PIF's first foray into the space industry, signaling new economic opportunities for Saudi Arabia and facilitating the localization of vital sectors, thus contributing to the Kingdom's economic diversification and growth of non-oil revenues.
Neo Space Group Announces First Deal with France’s Display Interactive for SATCOM IFC Solutions
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group (NSG) and Display Interactive (DI) have unveiled the advanced Skywaves® satellite connectivity system and SkyFly end-user portal, marking a significant leap forward in in-flight passenger experiences. Skywaves®, developed through their pioneering partnership, offers airlines a tailored traffic management platform leveraging cloud technology and multi-orbit satellite capacity, promising seamless connectivity and digital services during flights. This platform is designed to enhance efficiency and surpass current industry standards with superior Service Level Agreements (SLAs). Furthermore, the Skywaves® platform, operating within the "Connectivity-as-a-Service" model, ensures future-proof connectivity solutions for airlines. Complementing Skywaves®, SkyFly provides passengers with a user-friendly portal for accessing a range of services such as movie streaming and online shopping, while allowing flexibility in bandwidth allocation to meet specific demands during flights. Faisal Al Salloum, Managing Director of NSG, and Tarek El Mitwalli, CEO of Display Interactive, expressed excitement about the partnership's potential to set a new standard in in-flight connectivity, with plans for initial deployment in leading Saudi Arabian airlines and subsequent expansion across the aviation sector. This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of airlines and passengers globally.
Middle East Space Launch
Oman at Centre of Regional Space Launch Ambitions
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are confronting challenges in launching satellite payloads domestically, prompting consideration of space partnerships with neighbouring countries like Oman. Intelligence Online reports that Saudi Arabia has considered launch sites within the Kingdom for its launch ambitions but finds that geographically there are no good options for safe and reliable space launch and is now considering leasing a launch site from Oman. Given Oman's strategic geographical location, it presents an attractive option for collaboration in space endeavours. The UAE, also harbouring its sovereign launch ambitions, is reluctant to engage with Oman for space launch given Saudi interest, reflecting the rivalries endemic among the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states. The inability to conduct satellite payload launches domestically in many Gulf states underscores the importance of regional cooperation in advancing space exploration and satellite deployment capabilities. This potential partnership reflects a broader trend in the Gulf region towards leveraging shared resources and expertise to overcome technological limitations and foster innovation in the space sector. Such collaborations can enhance regional space capabilities and contribute to the broader development of the global space industry.
Proposed Space Launch Sites in Djibouti, Kenya at Centre of Geopolitical Rivalries as Launch Feasibility Comes into Question
Space launch site initiatives are gaining momentum in East Africa, particularly in Djibouti and Kenya, where geographical advantages for safe and efficient orbital insertion abound, according to a report in Africa Intelligence. Despite the appeal to foreign investors, who see potential in leveraging Africa's strategic location, tangible progress remains elusive. Moreover, these plans are spurring global and regional geopolitical rivalries involving China, Russia, United States, and the UAE, as well as Ethiopia in the Horn of Africa. Despite the promise of these plans, the lack of concrete developments raises questions about the feasibility and implementation of these ambitious projects.
UAE Space Agency and South Korea’s Innospace Sign MoU to Explore Space Launch Opportunities
The UAE Space Agency and South Korea’s private space launch startup Innospace have solidified their collaboration in space commercialisation through the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This agreement, signed during the UAE Space Agency’s recent visit to Korea, signifies a commitment to mutual cooperation in developing space business and advancing the space economy. Following discussions and site inspections in both countries, plans are underway to select an optimal launch site in the UAE and commence the construction of a launch facility equipped with essential infrastructure for satellite launches. Innospace's CEO, Soojong Kim, expressed gratitude for the recognition of their space technology and highlighted their dedication to supporting the UAE's space commercialisation plan. The visit also allowed the UAE Space Agency delegation to tour Innospace facilities, fostering discussions on future collaboration prospects and addressing potential challenges. This partnership marks a significant step towards advancing space activities in both countries and underscores the growing importance of international cooperation in the space industry.
UAE’s Yahsat Makes Africa SATCOM Breakthrough
UAE’s Yahsat Signs Strategic Partnership with Zimbabwe’s SATCOM Technologies
Yahsat, the leading UAE satellite solutions provider, has forged a strategic partnership with SATCOM Technologies to explore satellite communications opportunities in Zimbabwe, marking a significant milestone in Yahsat's expansion across Africa. The collaboration aims to enable various sectors in Zimbabwe, including mining, agriculture, health, and education, to leverage satellite connectivity for economic growth and development initiatives. Yahsat and SATCOM Technologies seek to deliver innovative and reliable satellite-enabled solutions tailored to Zimbabwe's national requirements. Scheduled to commence in June 2024, the services will contribute to bridging the digital divide, fostering economic growth, and improving access to essential services in Zimbabwean communities. Sulaiman Al Ali, Yahsat's CCO, emphasised the company's commitment to enhancing connectivity across Africa. At the same time Tafadzwa Collins Semu, CEO of SATCOM Technologies, highlighted the potential of satellite connectivity to drive economic development and enable access to vital services in Zimbabwe. This collaboration underscores Yahsat's dedication to empowering digital transformation in Africa. It is expected to be further bolstered with the upcoming launch of the Thuraya-4 satellite, expanding coverage, and advanced services, across the continent.
UAE’s Yahsat Signs MoU with South Africa’s Government for SATCOM Collaboration
Yahsat, the leading satellite solutions provider in the UAE, has entered a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with South Africa's Department of Communications and Digital Technologies to enhance collaboration in satellite communication fields. Signed in Johannesburg by Sulaiman Al Ali, Yahsat's Chief Commercial Officer, and Nonkqubela Jordan Dyani, Director General of South Africa’s Ministry of Communications and Digital Technologies, the agreement spans various areas including satellite broadband connectivity, Internet of Things, and Earth observation satellites. It establishes a framework for potential ground station construction, skills exchange, and investment. The MoU follows a recent visit by a high-profile South African delegation led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, emphasising the commitment to deepen cooperation. Yahsat's Group CEO, Ali Al Hashemi, highlighted the agreement's potential to expand the company's presence and bolster communication capabilities in South Africa. South Africa's Minister of Communications and Digital Technologies, Mondli Gungubele, emphasised the role of satellite communications in Africa's development and hailed the MoU as a milestone in advancing the continent's space tech sector.
UAE Space Developments
UAE Space Agency and Emirates Defense Companies Council Sign Space Cooperation MoU
The UAE Space Agency and the Emirates Defense Companies Council (EDCC) have formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at identifying and nurturing business opportunities within the aerospace and defence sectors. Signed during the Make it in the Emirates Forum in Abu Dhabi, the agreement underscores a commitment to fostering collaboration between these industries. The MoU, signed by Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, and Mona Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairwoman of EDCC, aims to drive innovation, economic growth, and job creation in these critical sectors. By leveraging each other's strengths, the partnership seeks to unlock new avenues for advancement and prosperity while promoting education and skill development in space and defence-related technologies among local talents. Through this collaboration, both entities aim to enhance competitiveness and efficiency, capitalise on space-related opportunities for defence and allied industries, and provide a platform for networking and knowledge sharing within the aerospace and defence community in the UAE.
UAE Space Ambitions Showcased at Make It in the Emirates Forum
The UAE recently showcased its space aspirations and economic potential at the Make It in the Emirates Forum, organised by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and ADNOC Group in Abu Dhabi. A key focus of the event was a panel discussion titled "Exploring the Final Frontier: The UAE’s Space Ambitions as a New Investment Magnet for Future Growth," which emphasised the country's capacity to lead global advancements in space technology. Highlighting a 40% surge in space service and application contracts in 2020, alongside extensive educational initiatives, the UAE demonstrated its commitment to fostering a sustainable and competitive space industry in line with the National Space Strategy 2030. Featuring notable speakers such as Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi and Dr. Mohammed Al Ahbabi, the forum solidified the UAE's position as a promising investment destination for space-related ventures, signaling future growth and technological innovation in the sector.
AzurX Signs MoU with Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund to Attract Space SME’s to the UAE
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF), established by the UAE Ministry of Finance to foster innovation in the UAE, has formed a strategic partnership with AzurX, a prominent private space and satellite services firm in the Middle East. This collaboration aims to bolster innovation in the space and strategic technologies sector, offering significant support to startups and SMEs seeking acceleration and growth. By joining forces, MBRIF gains access to promising space startups globally, attracting them to the UAE's thriving innovation ecosystem and aligning closely with the UAE National Innovation Strategy. The partnership facilitates MBRIF's goal of accelerating the growth of these startups by connecting them with the UAE's ambitious space programmes and providing essential resources for their success. Through customised accelerator programmes and tailored support, the collaboration seeks to attract startups from around the world to the UAE and contribute to the expansion of the private space ecosystem. This partnership represents a significant step in catalysing innovation and fostering a conducive environment for startups in the space sector within the UAE. (Disclaimer: AzurX hosts the Middle East Space Monitor)
Türkiye Space Developments
Turkish Space Programme Creates Reverse Brain-Drain Effect
Dr. Gülin Dede, a coordinator at the European Space Agency's (ESA) Space Research and Technology Centre, expressed her desire to return to Türkiye and contribute to the country's advancement in the space sector. In an interview with Anadolu Agency, she reflected on Türkiye's national space programme, emphasising its maturity across public, private, and academic sectors. Dede highlighted the importance of mobilising Türkiye's potential in the space sector, citing the establishment of the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) and the country's strategic plan as significant steps towards success. She underscored the value of scientific experiments conducted in microgravity and emphasised their role in expanding scientific knowledge and fostering interest in STEM education. Dede also stressed the significance of international cooperation in space endeavours, advocating for collaborative efforts to enhance technical competence, share resources, and address challenges such as space debris and orbital rights. She emphasised the need for Türkiye to align with global dynamics and leverage space-based innovations for broader societal benefits and success in the space domain.
Turksat Partners with Hughes to Provide SATCOM In-Flight Connectivity to AJet
Hughes, an EchoStar company, has announced a significant partnership with AJet, with the selection of the TCI Integrated In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) solution. This collaboration, facilitated by Turksat's satellite connectivity and Hughes' advanced IFC Management capabilities, aims to provide Wi-Fi service across AJet's fleet of over 120 aircraft. Following a similar partnership with Delta Air Lines in 2023, this alliance underscores Hughes' growing influence in the aviation connectivity sector. Reza Rasoulian, Senior Vice President of Hughes' Aviation Business Unit, emphasised the commitment to delivering fast and reliable connectivity to AJet passengers through this collaboration. With TCI's aviation engineering expertise and Turksat's satellite capabilities, the partnership is poised to enhance the in-flight connectivity experience for AJet customers. This venture marks a significant advancement in the aviation industry's efforts to provide exceptional Wi-Fi services to passengers, showcasing the potential of innovative collaborations in transforming the onboard connectivity landscape.
Türkiye’s Turksat to Tackle Space Debris with Space Situational Awareness Solutions
Türkiye is tackling the pressing issue of space debris with a national solution, aiming to mitigate potential harm to orbiting activities. Fatih Ayhan, the satellite programmes director of Türksat, emphasised the urgency of developing national technologies to prevent space debris, highlighting the export potential and international competition that could arise. Ayhan outlined the various forms of space debris and risks they pose, including the potential for the Kessler Syndrome to render orbits unusable if left unchecked. He stressed the necessity for cooperation between countries to track, prevent collisions, and remove space debris, calling for more radical steps to address the issue. Türkiye aims to expand its radar and telescope systems to actively monitor objects in orbit, enhancing its presence in the space debris scene. Participation in global efforts against space debris is seen as beneficial for Türkiye, offering advantages in scientific, security, environmental, and economic domains. Ayhan noted that Türkiye's involvement in space debris reduction initiatives could create jobs, boost progress in various fields, and strengthen diplomatic relations with other countries
Türkiye’s Türksat-6A Ships to Cape Canaveral on 4 June 2024
Türkiye's first domestically developed and produced communications satellite, Türksat-6A, has reached a significant milestone as it concludes its production and testing phases and prepares for shipment to the U.S. The Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğu, announced that Türksat-6A will be dispatched to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida on 4 June 2024, ahead of its planned space launch. Uraloğu highlighted the collaborative effort involving Türksat and various local industry organisations, which contributed to the completion of Türksat-6A, marking the country's largest R&D project.
China’s Space Influence in the Middle East
China-Arab Cooperation Forum Outlines Plans for Space Debris and BeiDou GNSS Collaboration
China’s President Xi Jinping outlined "five cooperation frameworks" aimed at enhancing the development of a China-Arab community with a shared future, focusing notably on innovation during his keynote speech at the 10th Ministerial Conference of China-Arab Cooperation Forum. These frameworks include plans to establish a joint space debris observation centre and a BeiDou GNSS application centre, emphasising cooperation in satellite navigation and space technology. The conference adopted the Beijing Declaration and an execution plan for 2024-2026, charting a course for strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation in various sectors. Observers noted the expansion of cooperation between China and Arab countries beyond traditional energy industries to encompass new technological fields like satellite navigation, space technology, and 5G technology. Collaborations in space exploration, exemplified by agreements between China and Egypt, signify a deepening of cooperation and mutual benefits. The China-Arab BeiDou Centre in Tunisia and other initiatives underscore the growing significance of space cooperation in advancing industrialisation and comprehensive cooperation between China and Arab states. China's broader global initiatives have also found resonance in the Arab world, positioning China-Arab cooperation as a crucial avenue for promoting global development, security, and civilisation. Thus, China-Arab cooperation spans various domains, from technical cooperation to diplomatic and economic ties, reflecting a comprehensive and expansive partnership.
Bahrain Signs Space Cooperation MoU with China During State Visit
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of Bahrain's National Space Science Authority (NSSA), highlighted the significance of fostering partnerships and collaborating with prominent global space exploration entities after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on space cooperation between NSSA and the China National Space Administration (CNSA). The MoU, inked during King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's state visit to China, outlines joint initiatives encompassing lunar and space exploration, satellite development and launches, remote sensing, tracking and control, and ground systems for satellite data reception. The collaboration seeks to bolster the progress, expansion, and sustainability of the space sector, underpinning strategic advancements in space exploration and technology development.
Senior Russian Space Official Claims UAE is Part of China-Led International Lunar Research Station Mission
Sergey Savelyev, Deputy General Director for International Cooperation at Roscosmos, revealed that twelve countries and international organisations have committed to the ambitious China-Russia initiative to build the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). The announcement, made during a plenary meeting at the State Duma, showcased the project's growing international support, with countries like the UAE, South Africa, Pakistan, Belarus, and Türkiye joining the endeavour alongside China and Russia. The ILRS project, initiated in June 2021, aims to establish a comprehensive scientific research base on the lunar surface or in lunar orbit, facilitating diverse research activities including resource exploration, fundamental experiments, and technical verifications. Despite concerns about potential risks from unfriendly countries joining the project, Savelyev dismissed such possibilities. In contrast, the U.S.-led Artemis programme, comprising approximately 40 countries, focuses on scientific exploration, technological advancement, and lunar colonisation efforts. With a vision to return astronauts to the Moon, establish a lunar orbital station, and prepare for human missions to Mars, Artemis emphasises collaboration with commercial and international partners to achieve historic milestones, including landing the first woman and person of colour on the Moon.
Other News
CEO of Qatar’s Es’hailSat Says Company’s Space Plans Align with National Vision 2030
Qatar's National Vision 2030 underscores the importance of technological innovation and self-reliance, positioning Es'hailSat as a key player in advancing the country's space ambitions and supporting its transition to a knowledge-based economy. Investments in telecommunications infrastructure and human capital development remain paramount to achieving sustainable growth and fulfilling the vision of ubiquitous connectivity by 2030. The State of the Satellite Industry Report reflects a substantial growth trajectory over the past decade, with global revenues nearly doubling from $189 billion in 2013 to approximately $386 billion in 2023. This remarkable achievement is attributed to the private sector's expansion, the rise of low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations, and the emergence of the NewSpace industry. Notably, traditional satellite communication services have gained acceptance as the preferred means of connecting the unconnected, whether through satellite broadband, cellular backhaul for extending network reach, or in-flight and maritime connectivity. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region present significant opportunities for enhancing connectivity services, particularly in overcoming challenges related to remote areas and difficult terrain. Despite ongoing piracy concerns and price pressures in the satellite industry, there is optimism about leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, neural networks, and the Internet of Things to meet evolving demands.
Morocco’s CRTS Hosts Training Course on the Use of Space Data in Disaster Response and Management
The Royal Centre for Remote Sensing (CRTS) in Morocco, in collaboration with UN-SPIDER, the International Charter Space and Major Disasters, and partners such as the European Space Agency (ESA) and the National Centre for Space Studies of France (CNES), conducted a training course on leveraging space-based data for disaster response and management. Held from 21 to 22 May 2024, at CRTS headquarters, the course aimed to equip over 30 participants from CRTS and various Moroccan government agencies and universities with essential skills. Presentations covered topics such as the use of geospatial information in disaster response, the International Charter, and Charter activation procedures. Practical sessions allowed participants to utilise tools like the Charter Mapper for satellite image processing in scenarios like floods and earthquakes. This initiative, part of a broader technical advisory mission by UN-SPIDER and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), underscores the importance of international collaboration and capacity-building in disaster management using space-based technologies.
Israel’s IAI Develops Counter-Jamming Capability for Satellite Navigation Interference
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has introduced Compact ADA, a system designed to counter Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) jamming with reduced Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) requirements. This advanced solution ensures continuous availability of Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) for tactical platforms, mitigating the risk of disruptions caused by GNSS interference. With over 20 years of experience in delivering GNSS Anti-Jam solutions, IAI brings extensive expertise in integrating immune navigation solutions across various platforms, including airborne, surface, maritime, and guided munitions. Compact ADA, derived from the ADA system, is tailored for air tactical platforms, inheriting advanced immunity capabilities. It offers compatibility with multiple satellite navigation systems and employs state-of-the-art technology with specialised digital signal processing algorithms. Jacob Galifat, General Manager of IAI’s MALAM Division, highlights the critical importance of such systems in today's threat landscape and underscores their potential for export to air forces and armies operating in GNSS-jammed combat zones.
Other News in Brief
Among the other regional space and satellite developments over the past week are:
The joint Iran-Russia economic commission emphasised the need to expand bilateral cooperation in space, aviation, shipbuilding, peaceful nuclear energy, and other sectors;
The UAE Space Agency takes part in the Make It In the Emirates event in Abu Dhabi;
Qatar Airways has announced a groundbreaking partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to introduce high-speed, low-latency Wi-Fi on its fleet, starting with three Boeing 777-300ER aircraft by the end of the year;
Tactical Report recently claimed that Qatar’s Barzan Holdings are in acquisition talks with ICEYE. Middle East Space Monitor can state with good authority and high confidence that the claims made by Tactical Report are not true and lack any factual basis.
Bahrain chairs GCC Group meeting to prepare for World Radiocommunication Conference 2027;
Alper Gezeravcı, Türkiye's first astronaut, was hospitalised after a traffic accident in Kocaeli province, northwestern Türkiye. The collision occurred on the D-100 highway in Izmit district when a minibus hit the rear of Gezeravcı's vehicle. Although he appeared unharmed, Gezeravcı was taken to Kocaeli City Hospital for precautionary checks. Hospital officials confirmed his stable condition, expecting no long-term effects.
Recommended Reading
Saudi Arabia’s Cosmic Aspirations
In Arab News, Miguel Hadchity interviews several experts about Saudi Arabia's ambitious space endeavours, integral to its Vision 2030 initiative, that reflects a profound shift in the global space landscape. Amar Vora, head of space at Serco Middle East, highlighted the historical context of Saudi's cosmic aspirations, dating back to 1985 with the launch of Arabsat-1A and subsequent achievements by the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and the Saudi Space Agency (SSA). The Ax-2 mission, featuring Saudi astronauts Rayyanah Barnawi and Ali Al Qarni, marked a significant milestone in Saudi's space journey, exemplifying the Kingdom's commitment to gender equality and inclusivity. Vora emphasised the transformative potential of partnerships with companies like Axiom Space, democratising access to human spaceflight and positioning Saudi as a key player in the space market. The strategic vision outlined by the Saudi Space Agency encompasses a broad spectrum of space activities, from satellite technology to space tourism, driving economic diversification and innovation. Abdullah Al Dawsari, an aerospace and defence project manager, underscored the importance of strategic investments in next-generation capabilities to propel Saudi Arabia's space industry forward. Mahmoud Khairy, an economist and policy adviser, emphasised the societal and economic benefits of Saudi's space initiatives, including job creation, skills development, and global competitiveness. The regulatory framework, outlined by the Communications and Space Technology Commission (CSTC), aims to encourage private sector involvement in the space industry, fostering innovation and economic growth. The pivotal role of sovereign wealth funds, such as the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), in financing space projects underscores the strategic importance of space exploration in shaping Saudi Arabia's future economy and global standing. As Saudi Arabia continues to venture into space, it remains committed to promoting sustainability and responsible stewardship of the cosmos, while inspiring future generations of scientists, engineers, and explorers.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!