Middle East Space Roundup: 12 to 18 August 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:
UAE Space Developments
UAE’s First SAR Satellite Successfully Launched by SpaceX
The UAE’s first synthetic aperture radar (SAR) Earth observation satellite has been successfully launched, marking a significant milestone in its Earth observation capabilities. This achievement is the result of a collaboration between Bayanat, Yahsat, and ICEYE, launched via SpaceX's Transporter 11 rideshare mission. The satellite, part of a planned SAR constellation, utilises advanced radar technology to capture high-resolution images regardless of weather conditions or time of day. This launch is a key component of the UAE's Earth observation space programme and aligns with the country's National Space Strategy 2030. The initiative aims to establish sovereign satellite data acquisition and processing capabilities, fostering local talent and innovation in the space sector. The partnership between Bayanat and Yahsat, soon to merge as Space42, positions the UAE as a leader in AI-powered geospatial analytics and multi-orbit satellite operations. This development is expected to enhance the country's capabilities in various applications, including disaster management, maritime surveillance, and smart mobility.
Starlink SATCOM Proves to be Lifeline at UAE Hospital in Gaza
Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet system has proven to be a critical asset for the UAE's Emirati field hospital in Gaza, enabling vital medical consultations and communications in an area with severely damaged infrastructure. The technology has facilitated real-time video consultations between medical professionals in Gaza and global specialists, significantly improving patient care in complex cases. Despite controversy surrounding Musk's involvement, Starlink's impact on healthcare delivery in Gaza is undeniable, with the field hospital conducting 20 consultative sessions discussing 50 complex cases, and even facilitating patient referrals to top medical centres in the UAE. This deployment showcases Starlink's potential in crisis zones, following its successful use in other conflict and disaster areas such as Ukraine and Hawaii. The system's reliability and effectiveness in challenging environments underscore its growing importance in humanitarian efforts and emergency response, particularly in regions with compromised communications infrastructure.
UAE’s MBRU and MBRSC Start Space Biology Training Programme for Astronauts
The Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) have launched a pioneering specialised training programme in cell culture techniques for Emirati astronauts. This initiative, which has already trained three astronauts including Hazzaa Al Mansoori, Nora Al Matrooshi, and Mohammad Al Mulla, aims to equip UAE's space pioneers with critical expertise for conducting groundbreaking research experiments in space. The comprehensive programme covers fundamental cell culture techniques, glovebox training, and practical skills essential for biological research in microgravity environments. This collaboration not only showcases MBRU's exceptional facilities and expertise but also marks a significant milestone in the UAE's ambition to become a leader in space exploration and research. The program builds on MBRU's growing involvement in space-related medical support, including providing a flight surgeon for previous UAE astronaut missions to the International Space Station (ISS).
UAE’s Bayanat Reports Strong H1 2024 Financial Results
Bayanat, the UAE’s AI-powered geospatial solutions provider, has reported strong financial results for the first half of 2024, with revenue reaching AED273 million ($74.33 million), an 18% year-over-year increase. The company's gross profit stood at AED84 million ($22.87 million), with a 31% gross margin, while net profit after tax was AED19 million ($5.17 million). Despite ongoing investments in research and development and talent acquisition impacting short-term EBITDA, which reached AED14 million ($3.81 million), Bayanat remains focused on strategic growth initiatives. The company is preparing for a significant merger with Yahsat to form Space42, aimed at creating a global space technology champion. This move, along with the launch of its first synthetic aperture radar (SAR) Earth observation satellite in collaboration with ICEYE, underscores Bayanat's commitment to expanding its space technology offerings and aligning with the UAE's ambitious space strategy. The merger, expected to be completed in the second half of 2024, positions the company for future revenue growth and an expanded product portfolio in the rapidly evolving space technology sector.
UAE’s Yahsat and e& to Introduce Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity in 2025
Residents of the UAE are on the cusp of accessing satellite connectivity through standard smartphones, thanks to a new partnership between e& UAE and Yahsat. Announced last month, this collaboration under Yahsat's direct-to-device (D2D) strategy aims to deliver voice, texting, and data services via low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, eliminating the need for bulky satellite devices. Initially, users will benefit from voice and messaging capabilities this year, with texting and Internet of Things (IoT) services expected by 2025. The initiative, part of Yahsat's Project SKY, represents a significant advancement in global connectivity, bridging gaps in cellular coverage and supporting a more connected future. This partnership underscores e& UAE's commitment to enhancing global communication access and reducing the digital divide.
Egypt Space News
Egyptian Space Agency and Hong Kong’s USPACE Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement
Hong Kong’s USPACE Technology Group has signed a strategic partnership agreement with the Egyptian Space Agency (EgSA), marking a significant expansion of its presence in the growing African space market. The collaboration encompasses a wide range of initiatives, including the establishment of satellite payload design and manufacturing centres at the Egyptian Space City in Cairo, and the development of an integrated satellite constellation for remote sensing and communication across Africa. A key component of this partnership is the creation of a joint venture in Cairo, positioning USPACE as one of the first commercialised aerospace companies in Egypt. The agreement provides USPACE with access to EgSA's technologies, facilities, and extensive network of African space agencies, enhancing its competitive position in the region. This partnership, following a non-binding agreement signed in May 2024, represents a major step in USPACE's globalisation strategy and underscores the growing importance of the African space sector in the global aerospace industry.
CEO of Egyptian Space Agency Briefs Egypt’s Prime Minister
Egypt's Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly recently met with Dr. Sherif Sedky, CEO of the Egyptian Space Agency, to review progress on the agency's initiatives. Sedky highlighted the agency's accomplishments, including the construction of Space City, efforts to localise satellite technology, and the formation of a company for satellite component manufacturing. Key achievements include the successful launch of the EgyptSat-2 Earth observation satellite in December 2023, which has significantly enhanced urban planning, maritime monitoring, and agricultural management. Additionally, the NExT-SAT-1 experimental Earth observation satellite, launched in February 2024, has achieved 40% localisation of technology, completed extensive testing, and provided valuable imagery. The agency has also launched an online platform for space imagery sales, formed international partnerships, and achieved significant milestones such as leading the UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space and the Arab Group for Space Cooperation (AGSC). Future plans include further development of satellite technology, establishment of a technological zone within Space City, and increased sales of educational satellite models.
Egypt’s Nilesat Reports Increase in Net Profits in H1 2024 Financial Results
Egypt’s Nilesat has reported a significant 11.25% year-on-year increase in net profits after tax for the first half of 2024, reaching $21.476 million compared to $19.304 million in the same period last year. This growth was achieved despite a slight decrease in operating revenue, which fell to $50.802 million from $51.193 million. As a public shareholding company, Nilesat specialises in satellite radio and television broadcasting services, as well as broadband internet provision. The company's diverse portfolio includes a booking centre for satellite newsgathering and feed services, along with a training centre. This financial performance demonstrates Nilesat's resilience and efficiency in maintaining profitability amid challenging market conditions, underlining its strong position in Egypt's satellite communications sector.
Türkiye Space Developments
Türkiye’s Plan-S to raise $40 Million for Satellite Fleet Expansion
Plan-S, the satellite and space technology subsidiary of Türkiye's Kontrolmatik, is embarking on a significant expansion with a $40 million equity funding round, targeting a company valuation of $400 million. Managed by Ziraat Bank's investment arm, the funding will support research and development efforts and expand Plan-S' satellite fleet from five to 22 by July 2025, with a long-term goal of over 200 satellites by 2030. Established in 2021, Plan-S is a key player in Türkiye's emerging private space technology sector, aligning with the country's national space strategy. The company's growth plans include a potential Nasdaq listing by 2027-28, positioning it as a global competitor in satellite technology. This development reflects Türkiye's broader ambitions in the space sector, as outlined in its National Space Programme, which aims to enhance the country's technological capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign resources. Plan-S' progress represents a significant step in Türkiye's efforts to establish itself as a notable player in the international space industry.
Türkiye’s Space Programme Will Have Strong Focus on Microgravity Research
Türkiye's space programme is advancing rapidly, with a strong focus on microgravity research and leveraging experiences from recent space missions. Tuva Cihangir Atasever, Türkiye's second astronaut, emphasised the country's commitment to maximising its share of the developing space economy. The programme aims to continue microgravity research and conduct more ambitious experiments, while also engaging young people through events like the Sky Observation Event in Bursa. This engagement is crucial for developing Türkiye's future space workforce, with the programme feeling a responsibility towards the 15,000 applicants for astronaut positions. The ongoing analysis of scientific experiments from the National Space Programme and plans for future microgravity production activities underscore Türkiye's determination to increase its potential in space technologies. This comprehensive approach, combining research, public engagement, and workforce development, reflects Türkiye's strategic ambition to become a significant player in the global space industry.
Türkiye Receives First Signal from Türksat-6A Communication Satellite
Türkiye has achieved a significant milestone in its space efforts with the successful reception of a signal from a distance of 35,786 kilometers via the Türksat-6A communication satellite. This achievement, developed over a decade by CTech, a key player in Türkiye's defence industry, demonstrates the country's growing capabilities in satellite technology and space-grade equipment production. The project's success has implications beyond commercial uses, potentially benefiting Türkiye's defence sector by applying the expertise gained to various military platforms, including drones. Moreover, this accomplishment positions Türkiye among countries capable of producing and testing space-grade equipment, opening up new export opportunities for Turkish space products. The success of Türksat-6A not only showcases the progress of Turkish engineering in space technology but also aligns with the country's broader goals of expanding its high-tech exports and establishing itself as a significant player in the global aerospace and defence industries.
Israel Space News
Morocco Finalises Deal with Israel for Two SAR Earth Observation Satellites
Morocco has finalised a $1 billion deal with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to acquire two advanced Earth observation satellites, marking a significant upgrade to its intelligence and surveillance capabilities. The new satellites, based on Israel’s Ofeq-13 reconnaissance satellite, are equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology, will replace the existing Mohammed VI-A and Mohammed VI-B optical Earth observation satellites. SAR’s capability to provide high-resolution imaging in any weather conditions, day or night, enhances Morocco's ability to monitor borders, manage natural resources, and address security and environmental issues. This acquisition aligns with Morocco's broader strategy to modernise its defence capabilities and underscores the growing defence cooperation between Morocco and Israel, which has strengthened since the formalisation of their defence ties in late 2021.
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Selected as Board Member of the WAVE Consortium
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has been selected as a board member of the newly established Waveform Architecture for Virtualized Ecosystems (WAVE) Consortium, marking a significant step in the company's commitment to advancing satellite communication networks. Founded in March 2024, WAVE aims to foster an open, interoperable ecosystem that aligns the satellite communications industry with broader telecommunications sector trends. Gilat will be represented on the board by Guy Levitas, Head of Research & Algorithms, and Adi Adotler, Chief Architecture Officer, both bringing extensive experience in satellite communications technology. The consortium, which includes major players like Microsoft, SES, Intelsat, and AWS, focuses on developing standards and specifications for a fully virtualised and interoperable SATCOM ecosystem. This initiative is expected to drive innovation, enhance adaptability, and create more flexible and efficient solutions in the satellite communications industry. Gilat's participation in WAVE underscores its dedication to shaping the future of satellite communications and contributing to the development of scalable, cost-effective platforms that meet evolving global connectivity needs.
Bahrain Space Developments
Bahrain Partners With Planet Labs and Aetosky for Urban Planning Geospatial Data
U.S. Earth observation company Planet Labs has partnered with the Kingdom of Bahrain's Survey and Land Registration Bureau (SLRB) to implement an advanced urban planning system, leveraging Planet's SkySat high-resolution satellite imagery and Aetosky's AI-enabled change detection technology. This innovative solution covers 850 sq kilometers of Bahrain, providing biweekly updates on urban development, infrastructure changes, and environmental alterations. The system has significantly enhanced the efficiency of building permit validation activities and enables automatic extraction and analysis of changes across the entire country. By integrating proprietary data cube technology, the SLRB can now manage spatial-temporal datasets more effectively, reducing monitoring time and optimising resource allocation. This collaboration exemplifies Bahrain's commitment to sustainable development and smart city planning, with the SLRB serving as a centralised data hub supporting various government departments in areas such as environmental monitoring, transportation, and municipal response. The project demonstrates the potential of satellite data and AI in revolutionising urban management and planning practices globally.
CEO of Bahrain’s NSSA Holds Meetings with Thales, U.S. Embassy
Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Aseeri, CEO of Bahrain's National Space Science Agency (NSSA), recently met with Christophe Ravaud, Regional Director at Thales, and Raphaël Uzgen, Business Development Manager at Thales, to discuss the upcoming Space Forum at the Bahrain International Airshow (BIA). The forum, which aims to advance space sciences and support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), will highlight NSSA's contributions to economic development and the promotion of space technologies. Ravaud praised NSSA's achievements and emphasised the significance of increasing awareness about space technologies and their impact on economic progress. In a separate meeting, Dr. Al Aseeri met with Elizabeth Hattingh, Political and Economic Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Bahrain, to discuss enhancing collaboration on future space projects. The meeting highlighted NSSA’s achievements and strategic objectives, with Hattingh praising the agency’s national and international impact. Both parties expressed enthusiasm for deepening cooperation between Bahrain and US space institutions, aiming to advance space sciences and research initiatives.
Iran Space News
Iran’s Prospective Defence Minister Touts Defence Modernization Plans Including Large Satellite Component
Iran's prospective defence minister, Brig. Gen. Aziz Nasirzadeh, has proposed an ambitious plan to boost the country's defence sector across multiple domains. The proposal includes developing "jump jets" with vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, AI-equipped drones for swarming, heavy multi-mission destroyers, enhanced air defences, and improved ballistic and cruise missile production. The plan also aims to launch 20 satellites and double Iran's defence exports, targeting neighbouring countries, Latin America, and Africa. While experts note that some goals, particularly the development of jump jets, may be technologically challenging for Iran, the overall strategy aligns with the country's longstanding focus on enhancing its military capabilities. The proposal reflects Iran's ambition to strengthen its position in international arms markets and expand its global defence presence, potentially leading to increased formal and informal defence spending. However, the feasibility of achieving these goals remains questionable, given Iran's current technological limitations and international constraints.
Iran Reportedly in Talks with Chinese Satellite Companies for ISR Satellites
Iran is reportedly pursuing partnerships with two satellite companies in China to enhance its satellite reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering capabilities. According to Western security officials, Iranian delegations, including members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), have engaged in multiple exchanges with Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co. and MinoSpace Technology Co. These Chinese firms manufacture and operate sophisticated remote-sensing satellites with high-resolution imaging capabilities. The potential collaboration could significantly improve Iran's ability to monitor U.S., Israeli, and Gulf Arab military installations, as well as enhance its ballistic missile targeting and early warning systems. This development occurs against the backdrop of closer Beijing-Tehran ties, following a 25-year cooperation pact signed in 2021. While no formal agreement has been reported, the flourishing relationship, particularly with Chang Guang, has raised concerns about Iran potentially supplying satellite-derived intelligence to its regional allies. This move aligns with Iran's broader strategy to expand its space capabilities, which has also included cooperation with Russia. The situation underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region and the growing importance of space technology in military and intelligence operations.
Other Regional News
Qatar’s Es’hailSat in Talks with Algérie Télécom Satellite on SATCOM in Algeria
Es'hailSat, Qatar's satellite communications company, has engaged in discussions with Algérie Télécom Satellite (ATS) to explore potential collaborations in supporting telecommunications networks in Algeria. With over 12 years of experience in satellite services across the Middle East and North Africa, Es'hailSat brings significant expertise to this potential partnership. The company operates two satellites at the 25.5/26 East position and a 50,000 sqm teleport facility, offering a range of services including satellite, broadcast, teleport, and managed services. This collaboration aligns with ATS's mission, established in 2006, to promote and advance satellite communications in Algeria as part of the country's broader development strategy. Es'hailSat's President and CEO, Ali Ahmed Al Kuwari, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the company's experience in serving premier broadcasters, governments, and enterprises across the region. This potential collaboration represents a significant step in enhancing Algeria's telecommunications infrastructure and could have far-reaching implications for the country's economic development and social progress.
Oman’s TRA Held a Public Consultation on Frequency Bands for Satellite IoT Services
Oman's national telecom regulator, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA), has launched a public consultation on the future use of the 1980-2010 MHz and 2170-2200 MHz frequency bands, aiming to optimise spectrum resources for the evolution of International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) systems, including satellite Internet of Things (IoT) services. This initiative responds to the growing demand for radio spectrum to support emerging communication technologies. The project's main objectives are efficient resource management, creating an investment-friendly regulatory environment, and fostering innovation in communications technologies. By focusing on aligning with technological advancements and improving telecommunications service quality, the regulator aims to create a flexible ecosystem for innovative services. The consultation, open until 25 July 2024, underscores Oman's proactive approach to spectrum management and its commitment to staying at the forefront of global telecommunications trends, particularly in the rapidly evolving fields of IMT and satellite IoT services.
Delays in Armenia’s Satellite Control Centre Leaves Satellites Under-Utilised
Armenia's space ambitions have faced ongoing challenges with the repeated delays in opening its first satellite control centre. Despite launching two satellites, ArmSat-1 in May 2022 and Hayasat-1 in December 2023, the country has yet to fully utilise their capabilities due to the absence of a functional control centre. This delay is particularly critical for ArmSat-1, which was intended for applications such as border monitoring, disaster prevention, and environmental protection. The High-Tech Industry Ministry has confirmed another postponement of the centre's opening, despite previous assurances of its completion. With the satellites' projected lifespans of four to five years, these delays are significantly impacting Armenia's ability to leverage its space assets effectively. This situation highlights the complexities and challenges faced by emerging space programmes in transitioning from satellite launches to operational data utilisation, underscoring the importance of comprehensive planning and infrastructure development in national space initiatives.
Other Regional News in Brief
Other brief developments from around the region include:
Azerbaijan and Türkiye discuss cooperation in space industry, AI, and cybersecurity;
Qatar’s Cultural Village Foundation is to host the third edition of its Katara Space Science Programme from 20 to 22 August 2024;
Saudi Arabia’s Saudi Space Agency launches its astrophotography competition that will run from 15 August to 15 November 2024;
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has announced a significant upgrade to its SkyEdge IV Aquarius modem, now supporting SCPC mode.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!