Middle East Space Roundup: 8 to 14 July 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:
Türkiye’s Türksat-6A Success
Türkiye’s Turksat-6A Communications Satellite Launched by SpaceX
SpaceX successfully launched Türkiye’s first domestically built communications satellite, Turksat-6A, on 8 July 2024 from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. Lifted by a Falcon 9 rocket, the satellite entered geostationary transfer orbit and will use electric propulsion to reach its operational position at 42 degrees East. The launch marked SpaceX’s 328th successful recovery of an orbital class rocket, with the Falcon 9 booster returning for reuse. Turksat-6A, weighing 4,250 kilograms, is equipped with Ku- and X-band transponders to extend satellite TV and communication services across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, including regions not covered by previous Turksat satellites such as India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Developed over a decade with contributions from local entities like TÜBİTAK Space Technologies Research Institute, the satellite signifies Türkiye’s technological independence in space and expands its geostationary fleet alongside existing satellites like Turksat-5A and -5B. At the time of publication, Turksat-6A was well on its way to its orbital slot in geostationary orbit at approximately 36,000 kilometres altitude.
Turkish Minister: Türkiye Intends to be a Satellite Exporter
Following the launch of Turksat-6A the Turkish Minister of Industry & Technology, Mehmet Fatih Kajir, announced Türkiye's emergence as a satellite exporter, marking its significant achievements in the field of space technology. Kajir highlighted Türkiye's entry into an elite group of countries capable of independently building communication satellites, a feat accomplished by only 11 countries worldwide. This milestone underscores Türkiye's rapid advancement in space capabilities, positioning the country as a key player in the global satellite industry and signaling its potential to contribute actively to international space endeavours.
Türkiye’s Turksat-6A Success Could Bolster Turkish Space Ties with GCC States
Türkiye has achieved a significant milestone in its space endeavours with the successful launch and deployment of its first mostly domestically developed communications satellite, Turksat-6A. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan emphasised strengthened cooperation with SpaceX, highlighting Türkiye's technological strides and strategic alliances in space. Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz underscored the satellite's role in enhancing national security through indigenous technology, crucial for maintaining strategic independence. The satellite's dual-use capabilities for civilian and military purposes, equipped with Ku-Band and X-Band communication payloads from Turkish electronic giant Aselsan, will significantly bolster Türkiye's defence capabilities. This achievement not only enhances Türkiye's defence posture but also positions it as a key player in the global space industry, potentially fostering collaborations with Gulf countries such as Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE seeking to bolster their own space capabilities amidst geopolitical complexities.
Türkiye’s Space Launch Ambitions Highlighted by Turkish Minister’s Visit to SpaceX’s Starship Launch Site
Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu's visit to SpaceX's production and launch facility in Brownsville, Texas, marks a significant development in Türkiye's space launch ambitions. The visit, coinciding with the launch of Türkiye's first locally-built communication satellite, Turksat-6A, highlights the country's growing interest in advanced space launch technologies. Uraloglu's tour of SpaceX's facility, including detailed briefings on the Starship rocket's production and launch capabilities, underscores Türkiye's focus on understanding and potentially adopting cutting-edge space technologies. The minister's comments on SpaceX's integrated production and launch facilities, as well as their ambitious plans for frequent launches and multiple satellite deployments, suggest Türkiye's keen interest in developing similar capabilities. This visit, coupled with the successful launch of Turksat-6A from SpaceX's Cape Canaveral facility, demonstrates Türkiye's commitment to advancing its space programme and potentially fostering international partnerships in the space industry.
Israel’s Satellite Deal With Morocco
Morocco Signs $1 Billion Deal with Israel’s IAI for Reconnaissance Satellites
Israel has solidified its security collaboration with Morocco through a significant agreement reported to be valued at around one billion dollars. According to French publication La Tribune, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) will supply Morocco with at least two very high-resolution Earth observation satellites, replacing its current Airbus satellites. This deal, finalised at the end of 2023 and recently signed, underscores Morocco's strategic intent to bolster its defence capabilities across air, land, sea, and space. IAI's involvement in the agreement was disclosed indirectly through a stock exchange announcement mentioning a major contract spanning five years with undisclosed specifics. Sources confirmed that this announcement pertains to the satellite deal, which remained confidential until now. The transaction marks another milestone in Israel's expanding ties with Morocco under the Abraham Accords, following a previous sale of the Barak 8 air defence system. IAI's expertise in satellite technology, demonstrated through projects like the Ofek reconnaissance satellite series, underscores its pivotal role in regional defence cooperation.
Israel’s Satellite Deal With Morocco Displaces France, Potential to Reshape North African Geopolitics
News of the $1 billion reconnaissance satellite deal with Israel marks a shift in Morocco's satellite procurement, moving away from previous French-built satellites to Israeli technology. The decision was reportedly influenced by Israel Aerospace Industries’ (IAI) chairman Amir Peretz's connections in Morocco and comes after Israel's recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in July 2023. The satellites, with a resolution of 40 cm per pixel, are intended for both military and economic purposes, including surveillance of Algeria and the Polisario Front, monitoring illegal fishing, and managing natural disasters. The satellites' ability to work in conjunction with an Italian radar satellite, COSMO-SkyMed, potentially offers superior all-weather observation capabilities. This deal not only represents a significant business victory for IAI over competitors in France but also underscores the growing strategic and technological cooperation between Israel and Morocco in the space sector, with potential implications for regional geopolitics and the global satellite market.
Morocco’s Satellite Deal With Israel Stirs Domestic Political Controversy
The decision to go ahead with the $1 billion reconnaissance satellite deal aligns with a 2021 defence pact between Israel and Morocco, covering intelligence and military cooperation. While the Moroccan government claims ongoing normalisation with Israel benefits Palestinian advocacy and humanitarian aid for Gaza, the move faces strong domestic opposition. The National Front Against Normalization has condemned the deal and called for government explanations. This development occurs alongside ongoing cultural exchanges between Morocco and Israel, including sponsored trips for Moroccan students and influencers, which have also drawn criticism. The satellite acquisition, if confirmed, would represent a significant shift in Morocco's defence partnerships and regional alignments, potentially impacting its relationships with both European and Middle Eastern countries.
Israel’s Gilat Secures $10 Million SATCOM Cellular Backhaul Follow-On Order from Peru
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks has secured a substantial follow-on order exceeding $10 million from Internet Para Todos (IPT) to expand its cellular backhaul services across rural Peru. IPT, a collaborative initiative involving Telefónica, Meta, IDB Invest, and CAF, aims to bridge the digital divide in Latin America sustainably, particularly in challenging geographic areas. This six-year contract builds on Gilat's existing infrastructure across 700 sites in six Peruvian regions, with an additional 100 sites in remote jungle areas. By enhancing 4G cellular backhaul capabilities, Gilat will extend high-speed terrestrial connectivity to over a million more rural residents. This partnership underscores Gilat's continued success in Peru, where it has previously provided critical telecom systems for airports and supported rural e-learning initiatives.
Israel Space Agency Signs MoU with Texas Association of Business
The Israel Space Agency (ISA) and the Texas Association of Business (TAB) have forged a strategic partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), underscoring their commitment to advancing space-related initiatives. Signed at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, the MOU focuses on enhancing collaboration between Israeli and Texan companies and institutions in the space industry. It outlines plans for knowledge sharing, networking opportunities, and supporting sector growth in both regions. By facilitating access to Israeli expertise and partnerships, the MOU aims to bolster Israel's space industry presence while providing Texas-based firms avenues for expansion and innovation. This agreement not only promotes industrial and educational exchanges but also signifies a concerted effort to leverage collective capabilities to advance global space exploration and technology development.
Israel Innovation Authority and Space Florida Announce Recipients of $2 Million Funding
Space Florida and the Israel Innovation Authority have announced the recipients of the 11th round of funding from their joint initiative, the Space Florida-Israel Innovation Partnership Program. Launched in 2013, the programme aims to advance aerospace and technology projects benefiting both Florida and Israel's economies, having funded over $22 million in research to date. This year’s awardees include collaborations like KBR Wyle Services and Purammon LTD developing a novel wastewater treatment system for spaceflight, Lockheed Martin and StemRad enhancing radiation shielding for astronauts, Guident Autonomous Intelligence and Novelsat Limited improving autonomous vehicle communication via satellite, and SRF Consulting Group and Mobility Insight deploying a Traffic Management as a Service system in Central Florida. Florida’s Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez praised the programme for driving technological innovation and economic growth through international collaboration. Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority, highlighted the programme’s role in fostering cross-border aerospace innovation, underscoring its strategic impact on global space technology advancements. Space Florida’s President and CEO, Rob Long, emphasised the initiative's contribution to aerospace technology development and economic benefits for both regions, reinforcing the programme's pivotal role in facilitating synergistic partnerships between Florida and Israel.
UAE Space Developments
NASA Animation Showcases UAE Airlock Contribution to Lunar Gateway Station
NASA's animation showcasing the UAE's airlock module for the planned Lunar Gateway station illustrates the country's significant role in deep space exploration. Scheduled to host its first astronauts in 2028, the Gateway will integrate the Emirates Airlock for crucial activities such as spacewalks, hardware transfer, and scientific experiments in the vacuum of space. Developed by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC), this module represents a pivotal contribution by the UAE to NASA's Artemis programme. Alongside other international partners like the European Space Agency (ESA), the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), and Canada, which are also developing key components, such as living modules and robotic arms, the Lunar Gateway aims to serve as humanity's outpost for lunar exploration and deep-space missions. This collaborative effort underscores the UAE's growing prominence in the global space arena, positioning it at the forefront of lunar exploration and scientific discovery.
UAE’s MBRSC and MoEI Launch Satgate Project for Improved Maritime Operations
The UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI) and the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) have jointly launched the Satgate project, aimed at leveraging satellite and AI technologies to revolutionise maritime operations in the UAE. The project's objectives include enhancing ship tracking capabilities, monitoring sea conditions, and improving weather forecasting to bolster the UAE's status as a global maritime hub. By developing a comprehensive database of ships visiting UAE ports and enhancing security measures, Satgate seeks to optimise maritime transport efficiency and mitigate risks, thereby boosting trade and transport flows through UAE ports. This initiative underscores the UAE's commitment to integrating cutting-edge space technologies into national development strategies, fostering economic growth, and advancing sustainable practices in the maritime sector.
UAE’s MBRSC Partners With Dubai Health to Enhance Astronaut Health and Safety
The UAE’s Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has signed a significant agreement with Dubai Health to enhance the health and safety of astronauts and drive innovation in space healthcare. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive health assessments, training programmes, and integrated health data management for astronauts before, during, and after missions. The partnership underscores the UAE's commitment to advancing both space and health technologies, with a focus on fostering continuous improvement in medical methodologies related to space healthcare. Salem Humaid AlMarri, Director General of MBRSC, emphasised the importance of collaboration in the evolving space sector, while Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, highlighted the role of Emirati astronauts in advancing the country's scientific capabilities and global profile. This agreement not only strengthens the UAE's space programme but also aligns with Dubai Health's strategic objectives to elevate healthcare standards and advancing health for humanity. The partnership represents a significant step forward in integrating space exploration with cutting-edge healthcare practices, positioning the UAE at the forefront of space medicine and technology.
Other News
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group Appoints First CEO
Neo Space Group (NSG), Saudi Arabia's new entrant in the space industry, has appointed Martijn Blanken, a seasoned telecom industry leader, as its CEO to spearhead its ambitious space initiatives. NSG aims to revolutionise the space sector by focusing on advanced satellite communication services across various orbital platforms, fostering innovation through startup investments, strategic partnerships, and localised activities within Saudi Arabia. With Blanken's extensive experience in telecommunications and technology, including leadership roles at Telstra Corporation and EXA Infrastructure, NSG aims to disrupt the global space economy while championing Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and technological advancement. Blanken emphasises customer-centric strategies and leveraging existing industry assets alongside new investments to position NSG as a key player in shaping the future of space technology and Saudi Arabia's role in the global space ecosystem.
Serco’s First Saudi Space Graduate Recognised by Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Germany
Serco's Space Graduate Programme has achieved a significant milestone with its first graduate, Sarah Al Habbas, being recognized by Prince Abdullah bin Khalid bin Sultan Al Saud, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Germany. This recognition highlights the programme's alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and the Kingdom's commitment to developing local talent in the space industry. Al Habbas, chosen from over 400 applicants, is currently completing an intensive training programme at Serco's Copernicus Operations Support Services in Germany. Serco's initiative, leveraging its 60 years of global space experience, is playing a crucial role in transferring knowledge and skills to Saudi nationals. The company launched a dedicated space division in the Middle East in 2023 to support local talent and develop regional capabilities. This programme, the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia and within Serco globally, demonstrates the company's commitment to fostering local expertise and contributing to the Kingdom's space ambitions.
Armenia’s Nascent Space Programme Subject of Regional Propaganda Wars
The propaganda war between Azerbaijan and Armenia has reached new and ridiculous heights with incomprehensible reports alleging that “multiple countries” are demanding the “return” of Armenian satellites, Ayasat-1 and Armsat-1, from orbit due to alleged disruptions to their own space operations. The story first appeared in the Armenian newspaper Joghovurd and has since been amplified by Azerbaijani news outlets. Joghovurd criticised the launch processes of these satellites, describing them as poorly planned and executed although English-language sources do not provide any evidence that supports these allegations. Adding to the scrutiny, revelations about former Armenian minister Avet Poghosyan, who oversaw Armenia's space programme until recently and was previously employed as a taxi driver in the United States, have raised concerns about the management of the programme. Armsat-1, developed by the Spanish company Satlantis and launched in May 2022, and Ayasat-1, Armenia's first domestically produced satellite launched in December 2023 from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, are at the centre of this controversy, but both satellites were likely never intended to have long operational lifetimes given their small sizes and experimental nature.
Bahrain’s NSSA Holds Meeting With China National Space Administration to Advance Space Cooperation
The National Space Science Agency (NSSA) of Bahrain, led by CEO Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, recently met with representatives of the Chinese National Space Administration (CNSA) to discuss and expand their collaboration in space science and technology. This meeting, following a memorandum of understanding signed during King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa's visit to China in May 2024, underscores Bahrain's commitment to advancing its space sector through international partnerships. The collaboration has already yielded significant results, including Bahrain's participation in Moon exploration efforts and a Bahraini technical team's involvement in conducting experiments on a joint space payload in Chinese laboratories. The discussions focused on further cooperation in space data analysis, training programs, and joint projects, aligning with both countries' strategic objectives. This partnership highlights Bahrain's growing role in the global space industry and its efforts to leverage international expertise to support comprehensive and sustainable development within the Kingdom.
Azerbaijan’s Azercosmos Partners With Pakistan’s DynaSys Networks for SATCOM IoT Solutions
Azercosmos, Azerbaijan's state space corporation, has formed a strategic partnership with Pakistan’s DynaSys Networks, a telecom service provider specialising in Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. This collaboration aims to integrate Azercosmos' satellite communications infrastructure with DynaSys' IoT platform, enabling improved operational efficiency and new revenue streams for partners in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The partnership will focus on developing IoT solutions for smart cities, agriculture, marine fleet management, environmental sustainability, and business processes, as well as applications for Earth observation systems. Fuad Aslanov, Vice-Chairman of Azercosmos, highlighted the company's interest in introducing innovations in satellite communication infrastructure, while Ali Akhtar, CEO of DynaSys Networks, emphasised their commitment to supporting Azercosmos through their IoT ecosystem. This strategic alliance represents a significant step in Azercosmos' efforts to expand its service offerings beyond traditional satellite communications and enhance digitalisation in its served regions, positioning the company at the forefront of the growing intersection between satellite technology and IoT applications.
Other News in Brief
Among the other regional space and satellite developments over the past week are:
Arabsat, headquartered in Saudi Arabia, has appointed Bader R. Bahaian as Executive Vice President of Marketing and Customer Services;
The Egyptian Space Agency hosted a delegation from the African country of Chad, which expressed interest in cooperating with Egypt on satellite imagery;
Egypt signs an MoU with China for the implementation of China’s BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS);
Bahrain’s National Space Science Agency (NSSA) participated in a seminar organised by U.S. company Redwire Space titled ‘Space Loves AI’.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!