Middle East Space Roundup: 4 to 10 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:
Middle East SATCOM Developments
UAE’s Yahsat Reports Strongest-Ever Financial Results for 2023
Yahsat, the UAE's leading satellite solutions provider, has released its consolidated financial results for 2023, showcasing remarkable growth across key financial metrics. With a revenue surge of 6% to AED 1.7 billion ($460 million), an increase in EBITDA by 3% to AED 977 million ($266 million), and a significant 68% boost in net income to AED 405 million ($110 million), Yahsat has demonstrated robust financial performance. Notably, revenue growth was observed across all operating segments, including infrastructure, mobility solutions, managed solutions, and data solutions. A highlight was the Group's highest-ever mandate awarded by the UAE Government, worth AED 18.7 billion ($5.1 billion), signaling substantial future growth opportunities. Yahsat also announced plans for a proposed merger with Bayanat, aiming to create an AI-powered space technology champion under the rebranded name Space42, subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals. The Group's strong balance sheet, improved cash position, and contracted future revenue of AED 25.1 billion ($6.83 billion) underscore its strategic positioning for future expansion and innovation. With new guidance set for 2024 and ambitious growth plans, Yahsat remains poised for continued success in the global satellite communications industry.
Israel’s Gilat Wins Significant In-Flight Connectivity Contract from Safran Passenger Innovations
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., a prominent player in satellite networking technology, has been chosen by Safran Passenger Innovations for a significant multimillion-dollar in-flight connectivity (IFC) initiative. Gilat's subsidiary, Wavestream, will develop, qualify, and manufacture a new line of Ku-band power supply unit (KPSU) products to support Safran's Ku-band electronically steerable antenna (ESA), aiming to fuel further expansion in the IFC sector. The decision to collaborate with Wavestream stems from its extensive expertise in constructing and certifying commercial-grade aeronautical equipment for satellite communications. This partnership enables Safran to broaden its product range with a new ESA IFC terminal, meeting the increasing market demand. The new products are designed to be line-fit qualified for major airplane manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus, reflecting the industry's shift towards integrated IFC capabilities. With this contract, Gilat reinforces its position as a premier supplier of PSUs and SSPAs for the IFC market and anticipates spearheading the development of next-generation IFC equipment.
Arabsat Reports Healthy 2023 Revenues, Plans for Three More Satellites in Coming Years
Arabsat's CEO, Alhamedi Alanezi, disclosed in an exclusive interview at LEAP 2024 that the company achieved revenues exceeding $200 million in 2023. With plans for sustained growth, Arabsat aims to utilise its high revenues for infrastructure development and satellite construction without resorting to borrowing or financing. Alanezi highlighted the company's market value of $2 billion, derived from its ownership of ten satellites, each valued at a minimum of $160 million, along with launch costs ranging between $50 million and $80 million. The company is set to launch three new satellites soon, including Badr-7 and Badr-9, with the former expected by late 2026 or early 2027, and the latter by 2028. Additionally, a satellite collaboration with Hellas Sat is slated for launch within three years. Alanezi emphasized Saudi Arabia's pivotal role in the communications industry's second phase of development, stressing the importance of satellite and communications infrastructure enhancement, particularly in the context of advancing 5G networks. Arabsat's expansion plans extend to Africa and Asia, where it is establishing new stations through commercial partnerships, with a primary focus on catering to the diverse needs of Arab countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, which serves as the company's headquarters and primary market.
Saudi Arabia’s Aramco Partners with UK’s Inmarsat for SATCOM-enabled 5G Mesh Network
In a groundbreaking move, Inmarsat, a UK-based satellite communications company, is pioneering the establishment of a terrestrial 5G network to augment its connectivity services over water. Following successful trials in the UK, Inmarsat is poised to expand these endeavours through a strategic partnership with Saudi Aramco, a leading energy group based in Saudi Arabia. Terrestrial 5G networks, characterised by a range of one to five kilometers, are instrumental in facilitating high-speed telephone broadband, particularly in maritime environments. These networks, integral to the Internet of things (IoT) ecosystem, offer superior speeds, increased throughput, and reduced latency compared to earlier network generations. Through a memorandum of understanding with Aramco, Inmarsat will integrate remote sensors into its offshore infrastructure, creating the world's first 5G mesh network in a maritime setting. This collaboration not only provides Inmarsat with an opportunity to test its technology under challenging environmental conditions but also signifies a significant advancement in optimising site efficiency, enhancing sustainability, improving crew experience, and fortifying cybersecurity measures for Aramco. With its existing network service combining L-band fleet broadband and Ka-band service with LTE technology, Inmarsat is at the forefront of innovation in maritime connectivity.
Satellite Communications Pick Up Slack after Red Sea Internet Cables Cut
Satellite communications operators are playing a critical role in maintaining connectivity between Europe and Asia following the severing of subsea internet cables in the Red Sea last week. While four out of approximately 15 submarine cables have been affected, efforts to reroute traffic are underway, with around a quarter of the traffic between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East disrupted. Despite the denial of responsibility from the Yemen-based and Iran-backed Houthis, repair efforts are estimated to take up to eight weeks, exacerbating concerns over slower internet speeds and data security. Satellite fleet operators like Intelsat are offering backup connectivity solutions, emphasising the need for hybrid subsea cable and satellite networks to mitigate such incidents' impact. With geopolitical tensions rising and connectivity disruptions becoming more frequent, the reliance on satellite networks for resilient and rapid data transmission is underscored, particularly in scenarios involving natural disasters or malicious acts targeting terrestrial infrastructure.
Arabsat Partners with Telesat for LEO SATCOM in the Middle East
Arabsat has entered a strategic partnership with Telesat, a major global satellite operator, aimed at commercialising the Telesat Lightspeed constellation in the Middle East and North Africa region. The collaboration involves utilising Arabsat's extensive experience in satellite services to support the deployment of Telesat Lightspeed, which involves launching satellites into low earth orbit to provide broadband services globally. Through this partnership, both companies intend to explore synergies in technical, commercial, and regulatory aspects, aiming to capitalise on Arabsat's strong regional presence and Telesat's innovative satellite technology. Wael Al Buti of Arabsat expressed enthusiasm for contributing to Telesat's transformative project, aligning with their commitment to advancing digital connectivity. Glenn Katz of Telesat emphasised the significance of collaboration in advancing satellite communications in the region, anticipating the creation of new opportunities for secure and robust connectivity solutions.
UAE’s First Quantum Optical Ground Station Opens in Abu Dhabi
The UAE's unveiling of the Middle East's largest quantum optical ground station signifies a significant leap in space communications capabilities, facilitated by the Technological Innovation Institute (TII). The establishment of the Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (ADQOGS) at Al Sadeem Observatory demonstrates the Emirate's commitment to advancing quantum technology and secure data transmission on a global scale. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, including a quantum acquisition and tracking system, the ADQOGS is poised to join a select group of countries pioneering quantum key distribution networks. With its testing phase underway, the ground station aims to not only enhance security in data transmission but also facilitate high data rate optical communication, addressing the escalating demands of satellite data transfer. The initiative, supported by the UAE Space Agency, reflects Abu Dhabi's strategic vision to leverage secure data communication for economic growth, particularly in sectors like finance, communication, and telecommunications.
Israel’s Orbit Communications Systems Introduces SATCOM Terminals for Military Armour
Israel’s Orbit Communications Systems has introduced its Line-of-Sight Multi-Purpose Terminals (MPT) tailored for SATCOM communication on armoured land platforms. The MPT-30 and MPT-46 models promise enhanced mobile communication reliability and speed, catering to various mobile platforms like armoured vehicles and ATVs. Offering seamless broadband connectivity in challenging terrains, these terminals boast high performance with download speeds exceeding 126 Mbps and upload speeds up to 29 Mbps. Their versatility extends to supporting different satellite orbits and frequency bands, ensuring uninterrupted transmission of high-volume data, including live video streams critical for mission success. Compliant with military and civil standards, as well as international regulations, these terminals are ideal for Intelligence, Reconnaissance, and Surveillance (ISR) applications, enhancing situational awareness and operational effectiveness across diverse environments. CEO Dany Eshchar highlights the MPT's capability to provide reliable communications to military forces worldwide, facilitating complex missions like border protection and ISTAR missions.
UK Strengthens Gulf Space Ties
Saudi Arabia and the UK Agree to Space Technology Development Cooperation
Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom have formalized an agreement aimed at bolstering their collaboration in various scientific and technological domains. Signed by UK Science Minister Andrew Griffith and Saudi Arabia's Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah Al Swaha, the deal encompasses research and development initiatives spanning from food security to clean energy. This agreement aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a strategic initiative to diversify its economy, with a significant focus on scientific and technological advancements. The collaboration framework outlined in the agreement extends to sectors such as healthcare, climate change mitigation, space technology, and more, with plans for regular meetings to facilitate ongoing cooperation. The UK views this partnership as pivotal for its own ambitions in science and innovation, emphasising the importance of global collaboration. Additionally, existing economic ties between the two countries are strengthened by significant investments in decarbonisation and clean energy technology, with discussions underway for potential joint ventures in space and innovation, including space-based solar power development.
UK Seeks Greater Space Cooperation with the UAE
The UK’s Minister of Science, Research, and Innovation, Andrew Griffith, is set to visit the UAE to fortify the burgeoning ties between their respective space industries. Griffith emphasised his role as a facilitator for partnerships with emerging space powers. The existing relationship between the UK and the UAE in space endeavours has seen notable collaborations, such as the creation of a "space bridge" between both countries by AzurX and AstroAgency. This partnership received funding from the UK Space Agency's International Bilateral Fund, signaling a commitment to fostering international collaborations. Griffith's recent visit to Saudi Arabia underscored the UK's space capabilities, aligning with Saudi Arabia's ambitious plans for space exploration, including a Moon base by 2040.
Other News
Iran Rejects U.S. Criticism of Pars-1 Satellite Launch with Russia
Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanaani responded to U.S. objections regarding Iran's recent satellite launch with Russia, dismissing criticism and asserting Iran's right to peaceful cooperation with Moscow. Kanaani emphasised that the space collaboration between Iran and Russia aligns with international law and serves conventional purposes. He refuted U.S. claims, attributing them to political motives, and reaffirmed Iran's commitment to cooperation with friendly countries within its rights. The remarks follow the U.S. allegation that Iran's satellite launches violate UN Security Council resolutions. Iran launched its Pars-1 Earth observation satellite from Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome on 29 February 2024, for research, remote sensing, and technology testing purposes.
Technology from Israel Critical to Astroscale’s Space Debris Removal Mission
Astroscale, an international company with a development centre in Israel, recently launched ADRAS, the first satellite designed for monitoring and potentially removing space debris. ADRAS aims to approach and observe the GOAST satellite, a large Japanese satellite launched in 2009, to gather data on its orbit and characteristics. Developed using technology from Astroscale's Tel Aviv centre, ADRAS will not physically dock with the target satellite in this initial mission but will instead accompany it for about a month. The meticulous approach is crucial to avoid any collisions. Following this monitoring phase, Astroscale plans further missions to demonstrate its debris removal technology. The current mission, with a price tag of $40 million, serves as preparation for future debris removal missions, supported by an $80 million grant from the government of Japan. Astroscale envisions offering a cost-effective and widely available satellite debris cleanup service, with the first debris removal mission planned for 2026.
Serco Middle East Introduces Satellite-Enabled Urban Twin Solution for Regional Climate Change Mitigation
Serco Middle East has introduced its Urban Twin Solution, a comprehensive environmental monitoring service designed to aid governments and organisations in tackling critical environmental challenges using space-enabled data. Developed in collaboration with technology partner Murmuration and mobility data partner Michelin Mobility Intelligence, this solution offers a holistic view of environmental conditions, empowering clients to leverage AI-driven insights and analytics to combat climate change at various levels, from individual buildings to entire cities. By leveraging Earth observation satellite data and other geospatial sources, companies and governments can proactively implement climate protection measures during project planning or retrospectively minimize environmental impacts from existing assets. The solution facilitates environmental impact monitoring, prediction through scenario simulation, and support for biodiversity conservation and sustainable traffic networks. With access to up-to-date data, stakeholders can make informed decisions and better prepare for climate-related events, reinforcing the fight against climate change. This initiative aligns with Serco's longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship and strengthens its position in the region's space sector, building upon its track record of delivering environmental insights over four decades. The acquisition of Climatize further bolsters Serco's ability to provide end-to-end climate solutions, emphasising the importance of leveraging Earth observation satellite data and technology to address climate challenges effectively.
UAE’s Nora Al Matrooshi and Mohammed Al Mulla Graduate NASA Astronaut Training
Nora Al Matrooshi, the first Emirati woman astronaut, expressed her aspiration to set foot on the Moon after completing her two-year NASA astronaut training alongside her colleague Mohammed Al Mulla and 10 American astronauts in Houston, Texas. Al Matrooshi, inspired by a childhood dream sparked by a kindergarten activity, envisions her ideal mission as fulfilling that lunar journey. The training, encompassing diverse tasks from robotics to spacewalk simulations, prepared them for space flight eligibility. Al Matrooshi's heartfelt reflection on family inspiration, particularly her grandmother's influence, highlights personal connections driving her ambitions. Meanwhile, Al Mulla looks forward to reuniting with family in Dubai post-training, emphasising the significance of team-building exercises and wilderness survival training during their rigorous preparation. Their graduation coincides with a pivotal era in space exploration, with NASA's plans for the lunar-orbiting Gateway station and the UAE's contribution of an airlock, marking a significant stride toward Arab representation in lunar missions.
U.S. Space Force Early Warning Satellites Crucial for Defence Against Iranian Missiles
The United States is leveraging satellite technology through the Space Based Infrared System (SBIRS) to detect and intercept enemy missiles before they reach their intended targets. SBIRS, utilising a constellation of satellites equipped with infrared sensors, can identify missile launches, determine their origin and destination, and provide critical data to facilitate timely responses. This capability is particularly crucial in regions like the Middle East, where threats from Iran-backed groups persist. The SBIRS programme, featuring satellites in geosynchronous and highly elliptical orbits, offers continuous coverage, enabling coordination with other defence systems for interception. Efforts to enhance this capability include the development of the Future Operationally Resilient Ground Evolution Command and Control (FORGE C2) and the Next-Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared (Next Gen OPIR) programmes. These initiatives, supported by various agencies including the U.S. Space Force and the Space Development Agency (SDA), aim to fortify the satellite network's resilience against adversarial disruption. Additionally, the deployment of Relay Ground Station-Asia (RGS-A) in 2025 will bolster regional security in the Indo-Pacific by integrating legacy and next-generation satellite systems. Through these advancements, the U.S. aims to strengthen its missile defence capabilities and maintain strategic superiority in space.
Saudi Arabia to Unveil National Space Strategy and Create Space Company Soon
Saudi Arabia is poised to launch its national strategy for space and establish a dedicated space company, aiming to combine government investment and private sector engagement in the burgeoning field, according to Abdullah Al Swaha, the minister of communications and information technology. Al Swaha emphasised the Kingdom's significant progress in space exploration and women's empowerment, highlighting the recent achievement of sending the first Arab Muslim woman to the International Space Station. The upcoming strategy will focus on two key phases: upstream, concentrating on space exploration, and downstream, targeting space telecommunications, navigation, and carbon reduction through Earth observation. Al Swaha also underscored Saudi Arabia's remarkable advancement in women's participation in technology and innovation, surpassing global benchmarks. Moreover, he highlighted the Kingdom's thriving digital economy, which ranks among the world's top 10 in terms of speed and volume of achievement, with substantial growth in venture capital funding and telecommunications and technical markets. This momentum reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to drive comprehensive societal and economic transformation under Vision 2030, spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Qatar’s Barzan Holdings Invests in SpinLaunch
Barzan Holdings of Qatar, while open to international collaborations on high-tech endeavours, is primarily focused on solidifying its existing investments in key platforms such as unmanned vehicles, counter-UAS solutions, command and control systems, and ammunition, according to Deputy CEO Mohammad Al Marri. The company, established in 2016, has strategically concentrated on bolstering national defence capabilities through strategic procurement, defense technology investments, and research and development. Notably, Barzan has ventured into a co-investment with U.S.-based space startup SpinLaunch, aiming to revolutionise satellite launches through novel electrically powered methods.
Oman Sees Surge in Space Investment
The Sultanate of Oman has witnessed a significant surge in space sector investments, totaling RO 20 million ($51 million) over the past two years, according to Dr. Ali al Shidhani, Under-Secretary of Communications and IT at the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology. This growth follows the release of the Executive Space Programme in 2023, which garnered international attention and prompted the establishment of numerous space companies in Oman. These investments include contributions from both local entities like ETCO Space and NASCOM, as well as international players such as SatMENA, solidifying Oman's position as a burgeoning hub for space activities in the MENA region. Dr. Al Shidhani highlighted the diversification of space ventures, with non-space companies like Omantel venturing into the sector. Currently, the ministry is actively developing several space projects out of the 14 identified in the programme, including initiatives like a space cloud partnership and a global space conference. Recent milestones include the successful launch of Oman's first satellite, Aman-1, and plans for the construction of the region's first spaceport in Duqm by NASCOM. Additionally, ongoing developments such as Zone 88, a dedicated space sciences and industries area, and ETCO Space's joint venture project for satellite manufacturing, underscore Oman's commitment to advancing its presence in the global space arena.
Saudi Arabia in Talks with U.S. Companies, China for Military Space and AI Technologies
Reports from Saudi Arabia by Tactical Report indicate that while an open budget for military space and artificial intelligence (AI) projects has been approved, deliberations on these matters are confined to Saudi Minister of Defence Prince Khaled Bin Salman's inner circle, including close advisors like General Fayyadh Al-Ruwaili and Khaled Al-Bayari. The Saudi Ministry of Defence (MoD) maintains strict confidentiality regarding all military space and AI projects, focusing on technology transfer in satellites, radar systems, hypersonic missiles, and strategic aerial drones enhanced with AI capabilities. Discussions at the World Defense Show in Riyadh involved high-level Saudi officials and representatives from major defence companies like BAE Systems and Boeing, emphasising collaboration in military space industries. Additionally, there are indications of a forthcoming Saudi-Chinese advisory team on AI, with future partnerships conditioned on technology transfer in military space and AI. This strategic shift underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities and signifies a significant milestone in the evolution of its military and defence industries.
Armenia Hosts Mars Analog Mission from Austria
The Armenian Space Forum has announced the arrival of analog astronauts for the groundbreaking AMADEE-24 mission, set to simulate Mars exploration in Armenia. Managed by the Austrian Space Forum and hosted by the Armenia Aerospace Agency, the expedition aims to replicate Martian surface activities with a small team of highly trained analog astronauts using spacesuit simulators. This simulation serves as a valuable tool for refining exploration mission architectures and understanding the challenges and opportunities of future human and robotic Mars missions. The chosen test site in Ararat province offers geological and topographic similarities to Mars, enabling the study of equipment behavior and the development of life-detection and geoscience techniques. Furthermore, the mission seeks to increase visibility in planetary sciences and human exploration while advancing knowledge in managing human missions to Mars through a realistic model for a mission support centre.
Türkiye Expects More Turkish Women to Enter its Space Sector
Female Turkish astronauts are poised to participate in space missions soon, according to Elvan Kuzucu Hıdır, chairperson of the Turkish Technology Team (T3) Foundation, who encouraged women passionate about space to remain dedicated. Evaluating the growing trend of women entering advanced technology fields like space and science, Kuzucu Hıdır highlighted Türkiye's success in implementing space projects, including launching the country's first indigenous high-resolution Earth observation satellite, IMECE, in 2023. She emphasised the presence of female engineers in the space sector and expressed confidence that Turkish women would excel as astronauts in upcoming missions. The recent SpaceX launch, which carried Türkiye's first space traveler, Alper Gezeravcı, further underscores Türkiye's advancements in space exploration. Kuzucu Hıdır also noted the increasing number of female students participating in engineering and space-related activities, indicating a promising shift towards gender diversity and higher-quality contributions in these fields.
Israeli GPS Jamming Creates Confusion on Dating Apps in Lebanon and Israel
Israeli military's use of GPS signal jamming, aimed at preventing potential attacks originating from Hezbollah in Lebanon, has inadvertently confused dating apps, leading to the matching of Israeli and Lebanese citizens. A media report highlights the impact of this jamming, which affects applications relying on GPS geolocation. According to Lebanese newspaper L'Orient-Le Jour, a significant portion of profiles appearing on Tinder in Lebanon were identified as Israeli nationals, indicating the cross-border matching dilemma. Conversely, Israeli users are experiencing similar encounters, with one reservist soldier humorously expressing surprise at encountering Lebanese-based matches on social media. However, this scenario underscores the broader geopolitical tensions and barriers hindering potential interactions between individuals from both sides. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged the heightened GPS jamming measures, aimed at thwarting drone attacks by groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. While the IDF emphasises the operational necessity of such disruptions, it warns citizens of the temporary effects on location-based applications, stressing the complex interplay between national security measures and civilian technology.
Other News in Brief
Among the other regional space and satellite developments over the past week are:
UAE and Rwanda hold economic cooperation talks, including space cooperation;
Yahsat and the UAE’s National Space Science and Technology Centre (NSSTC) graduates the first Emirati student cohort from their Space Enrichment Programme;
Qatar’s BeIN Media Group has renewed its satellite communications and broadcasting partnership with Es’hailsat.
DIFC’s Courts of Space to Hold Moot Court Competition in May 2024
The Dubai International Financial Centre’s (DIFC) Courts’ Courts of Space is to hold a Moot Court Competition over four separate days in May 2024. The competition will hear a fictional legal scenario that features a Canadian space tourism company called SolarDream that operates out of Dubai, UAE, and offers space retreats, that include space yoga and other wellness programmes on board a commercial space station. One of SolarDream’s customers, a yoga YouTuber called Artemis Astrotheia, is suing SolarDream for a $10 million refund plus $5 million in damages after falling ill with a Covid-19 variant and subsequently being unable to participate in the on-orbit wellness programme. Artemis’ trip, and that of her fellow passengers, is curtailed after four days (instead of the intended ten days in orbit) because of the virus. Despite not admitting to headaches in the run-up to her space trip after filling out medical disclosure forms provided by SolarDream, Artemis admits to these headaches in a post-space trip YouTube video, leading SolarDream to countersue for breach of contract. The competition dates are 7 May 2024 from 12pm to 6pm Gulf Standard Time (GST); 8 May 2024 from 12pm to 6pm GST; 9 May 2024 from 12pm to 6pm GST; and 21 May 2024 from 12pm to 8pm GST. The competition is sponsored by Middlesex University Dubai, Webnyay, and the Middle East Space Monitor is the competition’s media partner. Participants can register here for the competition.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!