Middle East Space Roundup: 7 to 13 April 2025
A summary of all the space news in the Greater Middle East over the past week, brought to you by AzurX
The following are the major space developments in the Greater Middle East region tracked by Middle East Space Monitor over the past week:
Saudi Arabia Space Developments
Saudi Arabia’s Space Economy Valued at $8.7 Billion, Set to Grow to $31.6 Billion by 2035
Saudi Arabia’s space economy is poised for significant expansion, with its current valuation of $8.7 billion in 2024 projected to grow to $31.6 billion by 2035, driven by a robust 12% compound annual growth rate, according to the Space Market Report 2025 released by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). The commercial space market, valued at $1.9 billion in 2024, is expected to reach $5.6 billion by 2035, underpinned by increased investment in infrastructure and advanced technologies. CST Governor Dr. Mohammed Al Tamimi emphasized that this growth is fueled by strong government support aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to position the Kingdom as a global leader in space innovation and economic diversification. The report identifies key growth areas such as Earth observation analytics, integrated communication systems, small satellite deployment, and private sector participation, aligning with global trends that foresee the global space economy surging to $1.8 trillion by 2035. The report serves as a strategic resource for investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, highlighting Saudi Arabia's commitment to building a competitive and sustainable space economy.
Saudi Arabia’s CST Holds High-Level Meetings at U.S.’ 40th Space Symposium
At the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, United States, Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) convened a high-level international dialogue on satellite technologies, bringing together senior leaders from global industry giants including SpaceX, Amazon’s Project Kuiper, Iridium, and Lockheed Martin. Led by CST Governor Dr. Mohammed bin Saud Al Tamimi, the session emphasized the urgent need for unified technical standards and enhanced spectrum coordination to foster interoperability, reduce costs, and stimulate global investment in satellite communications. This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its ambition to position the Kingdom as a global leader in the space and communications sectors. The discussions underscored the dual challenge and opportunity presented by the current diversity in satellite technologies, highlighting how standardization and regulatory harmonization can create a more integrated, innovation-driven ecosystem. CST’s efforts signal a strategic push not only to boost international cooperation but also to expand market access, lower barriers to entry, and strengthen the global regulatory framework governing space sector development.
Saudi Space Agency CEO Touts Saudi Space Sustainability Efforts
At the 40th annual Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, United States, Dr. Mohammed bin Saud Al Tamimi, Chief Executive of the Saudi Space Agency, participated in a high-level panel on “Sustainability: Practices and Responsibilities for the Future of Space,” underscoring the Kingdom's growing role in shaping global space governance. The panel convened global agency leaders and industry experts to address pressing challenges in ensuring long-term sustainability of space activities. Dr. Al Tamimi emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to innovation, international cooperation, and responsible practices that safeguard orbital environments for future generations. He highlighted national initiatives supporting scientific research and advanced technology development, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's ambition to position the Kingdom as a forward-leaning actor in the global space economy. The Saudi Space Agency’s active participation reinforces its role in contributing to the formulation of international sustainability standards and in advancing a more resilient and collaborative space ecosystem.
Saudi Arabia Reaffirms Its Commitment to Human Spaceflight
On the occasion of the International Day of Human Space Flight, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its strategic commitment to leveraging space exploration for global benefit, aligning with the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 objectives. The Saudi Space Agency continues to drive the Kingdom’s ambition to become a leading global hub in the space sector by advancing national policies, fostering domestic talent, and promoting scientific research and industrial activity in space sciences. Through active collaboration with international and local partners, the Kingdom is cultivating an innovation-driven ecosystem focused on the peaceful use of outer space. By strengthening global cooperation and representing Saudi interests in key international forums, the agency seeks to inspire future generations and position Saudi Arabia as a regional and international leader in space science and technology.
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group Selected by Uzbekistan Airways for SATCOM IFC
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group (NSG) has signed a strategic partnership with Uzbekistan Airways to equip the airline’s upcoming A321neo fleet with advanced in-flight connectivity (IFC) services starting in 2026. Leveraging its multi-orbit satellite infrastructure and SES’s Open Orbits network, NSG will deliver seamless, high-speed internet to support real-time communication, streaming, and productivity on long-haul routes. This agreement marks a significant digital upgrade for Uzbekistan’s national carrier and positions it as a regional leader in aviation technology. For NSG, the deal signals a continued push into emerging markets, showcasing its ambition to redefine digital aviation experiences through state-of-the-art satellite solutions.
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group Partners With G&S SatCom for IFC Deployment
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group (NSG) has partnered with G&S SatCom to deploy the G&S SatConnect® platform, a cloud-based, real-time monitoring system that will reinforce NSG’s Network Operations Centre and enhance its inflight connectivity (IFC) service management. This collaboration marks a strategic step in NSG’s mission to deliver high-performance, globally accessible IFC solutions, leveraging advanced analytics, scalable cloud infrastructure, and tailored operational features. By integrating G&S SatConnect® with its existing suite—including Display Interactive's Skywaves® platform and SkyFly passenger interface—and powered by SES's Open Orbits™ multi-orbit network, NSG aims to ensure uninterrupted, high-speed digital services for airline passengers. The move reflects a broader commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and scalable growth in digital aviation, positioning NSG as a leader in next-generation IFC deployment across global airline fleets.
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group Expands Thai Airways Partnership for SATCOM IFC
Saudi Arabia’s Neo Space Group (NSG) has significantly expanded its partnership with Thai Airways International (THAI) to equip 80 aircraft with its advanced In-Flight Connectivity (IFC) solution, marking a strategic leap in THAI’s digital transformation. Leveraging the SES Open Orbits™ network for multi-orbit satellite coverage, NSG will provide gate-to-gate, high-speed internet with speeds up to 200 Mbps, beginning with retrofits of THAI’s Boeing 777 fleet in Q3 2025, followed by line-fit installations on upcoming Airbus A321neos and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The IFC solution integrates Display Interactive’s Skywaves® traffic management and the SkyFly digital passenger interface to deliver a seamless and personalized experience, particularly benefiting Royal Orchid Plus® members. This initiative aligns with THAI’s commitment to innovation, elevating passenger expectations through enhanced connectivity, and positions NSG as a critical enabler of next-generation digital aviation across Asia-Pacific.
Türkiye Space News
Türkiye’s Moon Exploration Program Seeks to Participate in Growing Lunar Economy
As Türkiye advances its National Space Program, it is strategically aligning its lunar ambitions with broader efforts to stake a claim in the emerging $150 billion Earth-Moon economy projected by 2040. With over 60 lunar missions expected globally in the next decade, Türkiye aims to become a competitive player by developing high-tech products and fostering scientific expertise. The country's planned 2028 lunar mission will showcase domestically built propulsion systems and a spacecraft designed by Turkish engineers, alongside scientific instruments targeting key research areas such as lunar water, radiation, and magnetospheric phenomena. Türkiye’s participation in this next frontier is not only about national prestige but about integrating into the Moon's economic value chain—particularly in transportation systems, data services, and resource extraction. By investing in cross-sectoral technological innovation spanning automotive, robotics, energy, and telecommunications, Türkiye is cultivating a space ecosystem with the potential to contribute to all three pillars of the lunar economy. Through infrastructure development, scientific collaboration, and strategic positioning, Türkiye is seeking to transform its lunar aspirations into tangible economic and geopolitical returns.
Report: Foreign Powers Focus On Türkiye’s Spaceport Development in Somalia
Intelligence Online reports an unusual surge in satellite surveillance activity by Maxar’s WorldView Legion, Airbus’s Pléiades Néo, and China’s Jilin-1 has zeroed in on two specific locations along Somalia’s southern coast, drawing attention to Türkiye’s covert progress in establishing a strategic spaceport near Jamaame. This development follows President Erdogan’s November 2024 announcement of Türkiye’s intention to build a space launch site near the equator—a critical geographic advantage for getting to orbit efficiently. Satellite imagery analysis suggests one site near Kismaayo is functioning as a logistics hub, while the nearby dune region is likely the spaceport's construction zone. Although Somali authorities confirmed the partnership, they withheld location specifics, prompting international scrutiny. This initiative underscores Türkiye’s broader ambition not only to gain sovereign space launch capabilities but also to establish a remote missile testing ground, circumventing the geopolitical constraints posed by its Mediterranean and Black Sea geography. The project places Türkiye alongside other regional powers like Italy and Saudi Arabia, who are similarly positioning launch infrastructure near the equator to support growing defense and space aspirations.
Türkiye’s Satellite Navigation Program: From Atomic Clocks to Satellites
Türkiye’s 2030 Industry and Technology Strategy outlines an ambitious roadmap to enhance national digital sovereignty, focusing on cybersecurity, space-based infrastructure, and AI-driven innovation. As industrial automation expands, securing digital infrastructure through locally developed cybersecurity solutions has become essential to safeguard sensitive data and maintain business continuity. A key pillar of this strategy is the development of a Regional Positioning and Timing System using Turkish satellites to reduce reliance on global systems like GPS—supporting military operations, civil communications, smart transport, and precision agriculture. Complementing this, Türkiye is advancing local atomic clock technology through collaborations between TÜBİTAK and the Turkish Space Agency, critical for future satellite missions. Efforts also include launching a national navigation and mapping platform, reinforcing data security and economic self-reliance. Additionally, the strategy emphasizes the development of large language models and AI applications to strengthen digital independence and global competitiveness. Collectively, these initiatives position Türkiye to become a leading industrial and technological power, shaping its digital transformation and asserting its role in the global innovation ecosystem.
Institutional Rivalries in Türkiye Could Delay, Even Prevent, Domestic Development of TÜRKSAT-7A
Türkiye's successful launch of the domestically developed TÜRKSAT-6A communications satellite marks a major milestone in its ascent as one of only ten countries globally capable of manufacturing such advanced space assets. However, this achievement has also exposed institutional fragmentation and a lack of strategic organization in the national space ecosystem. Despite a strong legacy of indigenous satellite development—spanning from BİLSAT to GÖKTÜRK and İMECE—there remains no unified entity to manage intellectual property, commercialize national satellite technology, or serve as a single point of contact for international clients. The rivalry between the Ministry of Transport (TÜRKSAT A.Ş.) and the Ministry of Industry and Technology (via TÜBİTAK Space) during the TÜRKSAT-6A commissioning process not only hindered coordination but now risks stalling momentum. As TÜRKSAT-3A nears retirement in 2028, the absence of an organized procurement strategy or replacement program raises concerns that a foreign-built satellite may again fill the void—potentially sidelining local industry gains. This situation underscores the urgent need for a dedicated national satellite company to steward Türkiye’s technological, commercial, and strategic interests in the global satellite sector and ensure continuity, sovereignty, and export potential in future satellite programs like TÜRKSAT-7A.
Turkish Researcher: Türkiye Needs Structural Reforms to Become Top Space Power
In Space News, space policy analyst and researcher Elif Yüksel writes that Türkiye’s space ambitions have progressed steadily since the 2021 launch of Türksat-5A and recent high-profile human spaceflight milestones, yet the country faces persistent structural challenges that could impede its rise as a global space power. While Türkiye has made notable advances in satellite manufacturing—such as TÜRKSAT-6A, İMECE, and commercial ventures like Fergani Space and Plan-S—and bolstered space education through initiatives like GUHEM, the national space ecosystem remains heavily state-dominated with insufficient private sector participation and limited integration into multilateral space governance frameworks. The lack of a comprehensive, actionable national space policy with clear provisions for commercial licensing, investment incentives, and international collaboration constrains innovation and competitiveness. Türkiye’s partnerships with Axiom Space, Azercosmos, and Argentina, alongside its outreach to initiatives like the International Lunar Research Station, illustrate its geopolitical balancing act between Western and non-Western space blocs. However, to translate its space aspirations into sustainable economic and technological gains, Türkiye must implement structural reforms that foster domestic talent, support startups, and anchor public-private collaboration within a globally coordinated policy framework. Hosting the 2026 International Astronautical Congress presents a timely opportunity to unveil a revitalized strategy that positions Türkiye as a credible and autonomous player in the evolving space economy.
UAE Space Developments
UAE’s Sheikh Hamdan Visits India, Discusses Space-Based Defense Cooperation
During Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan’s first official visit to India, the UAE and India reinforced their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership by advancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, notably including space. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the strategic role of space and satellite collaboration as part of a broader agenda to strengthen ties in defense, technology, trade, and connectivity. Discussions acknowledged the potential for joint initiatives in innovation and co-development, aligning closely with India’s Make-in-India and the UAE’s Make-in-Emirates strategies. The space component was framed within the wider context of technological and strategic autonomy, with both countries increasingly recognizing space cooperation as a pillar of national security and economic competitiveness. As part of the visit, high-level talks were also held with India’s defense minister, during which new frameworks for collaboration, including space-based defense applications, were explored. This deepening of space and defense ties builds on prior agreements and reflects a shared ambition to lead in the global space economy while reinforcing regional security through advanced satellite capabilities.
UAE’s EDGE Group & Hungary’s 4iG Sign MoU to Develop Earth Observation Satellites
EDGE Group, a leading advanced technology and defense conglomerate based in the UAE, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Hungary’s 4iG Space & Defence Technologies to jointly explore the development of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), counter-UAS technologies, and advanced Earth observation satellite capabilities. The agreement, formalized in Budapest in the presence of the UAE ambassador, underscores EDGE’s strategic push into the European defense and space sectors and aligns with Hungary’s ambitions to strengthen its position within NATO through technological innovation. This partnership builds on a January 2025 letter of intent between EDGE and Hungary’s Ministry of Defence, which includes the supply of CARACAL sniper rifles—marking EDGE’s first defense export to a NATO state. By leveraging 4iG’s expertise in UAVs, including its proprietary PROTAR drone, and EDGE’s global reach in advanced defense technologies, the two companies aim to co-develop solutions that address evolving global security and space surveillance challenges. This collaboration represents a significant step toward deeper UAE-EU defense-industrial cooperation, particularly in dual-use aerospace technologies.
UAE’s MBRSC Uses AI With Earth Observation Satellites to Enhance Disaster Response
The Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) is leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced satellite technologies to enhance global disaster response efforts, establishing the UAE as a regional leader in space-based emergency support. Through its high-resolution Earth observation satellites, MBRSC has supported approximately 40 international disaster missions in 2024 alone, providing critical post-event imagery and analysis for crises such as volcanic eruptions in the Philippines and flooding in Indonesia and Libya. Responding to an average of eight requests weekly, MBRSC is integrating AI to automate data processing and accelerate delivery of actionable insights, ensuring faster, more accurate support for governments and aid agencies. At the ISPRS Geospatial Week in Dubai, MBRSC showcased these capabilities while promoting international collaboration in remote sensing. A key milestone in 2024 was the successful launch of the UAE’s first synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9, significantly expanding the country’s data capabilities and reducing dependency on foreign sources. The SAR satellite is expected to drive innovation across government and academic institutions, further solidifying the UAE’s strategic role in space-based geospatial intelligence and disaster resilience.
Geospatial Week 2025 Successfully Wraps Up in Dubai, UAE
Geospatial Week 2025—hosted by the Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) in collaboration with the ISPRS—underscored the transformative role of satellite imagery, photogrammetry, and AI-driven remote sensing in climate solutions and disaster management. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the event attracted global experts, industry professionals, and emerging talent, and featured high-level sessions on topics such as flood forecasting, reforestation tracking, and post-disaster recovery, emphasizing the need for international cooperation and real-time geospatial data integration. A parallel Students & Young Professionals event, co-hosted with SAASST and the ISPRS Student Consortium, fostered innovation and skill-building through workshops on CubeSat design, deep learning, and space technology careers. Technical sessions highlighted advancements in autonomous navigation, digital construction, and intelligent mapping, while Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Survey and Geospatial Information and the UAE’s Federal Geographic Information Center showcased national geospatial strategies and projects, such as Saudi Arabia’s national infrastructure programs and the UAE’s Union Atlas initiative. The event reinforced the strategic importance of geospatial technologies for sustainable development, governance, and capacity-building in the global space sector.
NASA Delegation Visits UAE’s University of Sharjah to Partner on STEM Education
The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology (SAASST), affiliated with the UAE’s University of Sharjah, hosted a high-level NASA delegation to explore avenues for joint academic and scientific collaboration. The partnership aims to enhance research, education, and training through shared expertise, student internships, and participation in international space science projects. This initiative reflects SAASST’s strategic objective to align with leading global institutions and underscores its commitment to cultivating a new generation of scientists equipped to contribute to the global space sector. Senior university officials emphasized the role of the partnership in integrating advanced technological frameworks into academic programs and elevating the institution’s research profile, while NASA praised SAASST’s contributions to regional space research and highlighted the potential for deepened scientific exchange between the UAE and the United States. The visit included an overview of SAASST’s laboratories, projects, and training initiatives, underscoring the Academy’s growing role in regional space capability development.
Israel Space News
Israel Commits to International Space Cooperation, Deep Space Missions, at Space Symposium
At the 40th Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, United States, Israel’s strategic positioning in the global space sector was reinforced through remarks by Uri Oron, Director of the Israel Space Agency, who emphasized the dual nature of space as both a domain of competition and international cooperation. Oron urged governments to accelerate bilateral and multilateral partnerships in response to rapid technological and commercial shifts, cautioning that failure to engage dynamically could leave state actors behind in the evolving space landscape. He highlighted Israel’s leadership in science-driven partnerships, citing the ULTRASAT mission—a joint astrophysics initiative with international collaborators—and the global expansion of Israel’s Space Olympics education program as examples of the country’s commitment to innovation, diplomacy, and capacity building in space. Oron’s comments came amid broader discussions by space agency heads from Germany, Japan, France, Australia, and India, all of whom emphasized the critical role of sustained international collaboration in navigating geopolitical uncertainty and advancing shared missions like NASA’s Artemis program. Israel’s voice at the symposium underscored the country’s growing ambition to move beyond surveillance satellite development and into the forefront of deep-space engagement, leveraging its agile innovation ecosystem and expanding global partnerships to remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly changing space economy.
Israel’s Creation-Space Positions Country at Forefront of Deep-Space Technology Development
Israel’s space technology ambitions are gaining new momentum through Creation-Space, a pioneering innovation hub founded in 2023 in Mitzpeh Ramon that aims to position Israel at the forefront of deep-space technology development. While the country made history with the Beresheet lunar lander in 2019, its current strength lies in surveillance satellites rather than deep-space exploration. Creation-Space, under CEO Roy Naor, seeks to change that with its Space Venture accelerator, supporting startups with up to $250,000 in funding, technical support, and access to NASA-led workshops. Focused on dual-use technologies with applications both on Earth and in the emerging lunar economy, the hub views lunar data centers—rather than mining minerals—as a near-term economic opportunity due to their sustainability and strategic value. Backed by CreationsVC, JNF-USA, and other partners, Creation-Space leverages Israel’s Negev Desert, particularly the Ramon Crater, as an analog environment for Mars-based research. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to transform Mitzpeh Ramon into Israel’s “space city” and underscores the country's bid to play a larger role in global space innovation, not just as a satellite producer but as a driver of human-centric, deep-space solutions.
Israeli Astrophysicist Awarded Prestigious NASA Fellowship; SpacePharma Completes SpaceX Fram-2 Experiment
Israel continues to make notable contributions to the global space and astrophysics ecosystem through both academic excellence and commercial innovation. Dr. Itai Linial, an Israeli theoretical astrophysicist, has been awarded the prestigious NASA Einstein Fellowship under the Edwin Hubble Program to study high-energy processes involving black holes, including Quasi-Periodic Eruptions (QPEs), at New York University. His work, grounded in earlier research from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and potentially supported by future data from Israel’s upcoming ULTRASAT telescope, underscores Israel’s growing role in fundamental space science. Concurrently, Israeli firm SpacePharma successfully launched a microgravity experiment aboard the private Fram-2 mission, SpaceX’s first crewed polar orbit flight. Originally intended for the ISS, the experiment tests antibody crystallization under extreme orbital conditions and marks SpacePharma’s 11th mission. Together, these achievements reflect Israel’s dual-track approach to space leadership: advancing deep-space science while commercializing microgravity R&D platforms, thereby reinforcing its position in the rapidly evolving space economy.
Israel’s Gilat Secures U.S. DoD SATCOM Contract Worth Up To $23 Million
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has secured a significant contract through its Gilat Defense division to provide sustainment and support services for Satellite Transportable Terminal (STT) units used by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), with a total potential value of up to $23 million over five years. The agreement encompasses program management, field services, and technical support to ensure the continued operational readiness of the DoD’s global SATCOM assets. This award highlights the strategic importance of Gilat’s satellite communications technology in supporting critical military operations and reinforces the company’s reputation for delivering high-quality, mission-critical services. The deal also reflects the ongoing trust and reliance placed on Gilat’s capabilities by key defense stakeholders, strengthening its position in the global military communications market.
Israel’s Gilat Secures $11 Million Order for SATCOM Terminals From UAV Company
Israel’s Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has secured a defense contract exceeding $11 million for its DKET 3420 portable satellite communication terminals, underscoring the growing demand for high-performance, mission-critical SATCOM solutions in global defense operations. The DKET 3420, known for its field-proven reliability, supports multi-carrier operations with scalable architecture accommodating up to 32 modems, enabling efficient and flexible satellite bandwidth usage in dynamic environments. Scheduled for delivery later this year, the contract highlights the strategic momentum of Gilat’s newly established Defense Division and reaffirms its position as a key provider of cutting-edge communications infrastructure. With this award, Gilat strengthens its footprint in the defense SATCOM market, demonstrating its technological leadership and commitment to supporting complex operational needs in both terrestrial and remote theater deployments.
Azerbaijan Space Developments
Azerbaijan and Israel Sign MoU to Cooperate on Science, Technology, and Space
Azerbaijan and Israel have formalized their commitment to scientific and technological collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that prominently includes space as a strategic focus area. Announced by Azerbaijani Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Nabiyev during a visit to Israel, the agreement follows discussions with Israeli Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Gila Gamliel, covering a broad range of high-tech domains including innovation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space. The MoU aims to foster bilateral cooperation in space technologies and improve the legislative framework that governs such collaboration. Additionally, Azerbaijan has extended an invitation to Israeli technology firms to establish a presence in the country, including the potential development of satellite-related manufacturing, IT training centers, and a Center of Excellence for high technologies. This initiative signals both countries' intent to deepen ties in the growing global space economy while leveraging each other’s capabilities to drive scientific advancement and commercial opportunities in the satellite and aerospace sectors.
Azerbaijan’s Customs Authority Delays Deployment of Starlink SATCOM
Azerbaijan’s government has clarified the regulatory requirements surrounding the import of Starlink satellite internet devices, following reports of customs-related delays. According to the State Customs Committee and the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport (MDDT), the devices are legally classified as "space satellite communication devices" and fall under restricted items that require special authorization for civilian use. Citing national legislation and a 2005 presidential decree, the MDDT is designated as the sole authority to issue the necessary permits. This regulatory framework underscores Azerbaijan’s cautious approach to managing access to space-based communication technologies, emphasizing national control over satellite infrastructure imports. The move signals both the country's intent to regulate its domestic space ecosystem and the growing importance of satellite internet services in national digital strategies.
Azerbaijan Satellite Built by School Students to be Launched by SpaceX by End of 2025
Azerbaijan is set to launch its first school satellite into space by the end of 2025 aboard a SpaceX rocket, marking a significant milestone in national space education and youth engagement. Spearheaded by the Space Academy under Azercosmos, the project will involve 750 students from 41 schools, providing hands-on experience in satellite operations and space innovation. According to Academy Director Imran Mukhtarov, the initiative aims to foster early interest in aerospace science, enabling students to gain practical knowledge in satellite control and research. This educational satellite launch represents a strategic effort to cultivate the next generation of space professionals and deepen Azerbaijan’s long-term investment in space technology and innovation.
Azerbaijan’s Azercosmos Launches Space Science Initiative for Turkic States
Azerbaijan's Space Academy, under Azercosmos, is launching a mobile-based space innovation and STEAM bus project aimed at enhancing public engagement and education in space science across the Turkic world. As announced by community projects lead Ali Taghiyev, the initiative will operate under the Organization of Turkic States and travel across member nations, serving as a mobile education and experience platform to strengthen both scientific and cultural ties. The project reflects a growing global trend of integrating socially-oriented initiatives into the space sector, with a strong emphasis on public outreach and human capital development. With over 12,000 citizens benefiting annually from the Academy’s programs, the Space Academy is positioning itself as a regional leader in making space science accessible and relevant, blending it with sectors like culture, art, and even healthcare to broaden its societal impact.
Iran Space News
Iran Announces a Busy 2026 Schedule for Its Space Program
Iran’s space agency, under the leadership of Hassan Salarieh, has unveiled an ambitious space agenda for the Persian calendar year 1404 (2025–2026), including multiple satellite and launch vehicle missions as well as significant advancements in human spaceflight capabilities. Key upcoming launches involve the Simorgh and Optimized Simorgh, Zoljanah, and Qaem-100 satellite launch vehicles, and delayed deployments of the Zafar and Paya satellites. Iran also plans to initiate both test and operational missions for the Martyr Soleimani Satellite Constellation and the Nahid-2 satellite, the latter leveraging both domestic and international launch services. In parallel, Iran is progressing on its human spaceflight program with the development of biological capsules, including a 1,500 kg model intended to carry a human into space. The country is also nearing completion of a one-ton satellite laboratory and advancing construction of the Chabahar Space Base, with the first of its three phases expected by 2026 or early 2027. These initiatives collectively signal Iran’s intent to bolster sovereign capabilities across orbital access, satellite deployment, and eventual crewed spaceflight, amid a broader strategic push for space infrastructure and technology autonomy.
Iran Accelerating Efforts to Build a Comprehensive National Space Economy
Iran is accelerating efforts to build a comprehensive national space economy, focusing on domestic innovation in satellite component design, manufacturing, and launch readiness, while also seeking broader international collaboration to enhance technological capabilities. Iran views space as a strategic sector for long-term economic development and is emphasizing inter-agency coordination, infrastructure enhancement, and regulatory reform to support sustainable growth. Central to this ambition are indigenous technological advances—such as in lithium-ion battery systems—which offer a competitive edge in aerospace applications. By coupling domestic innovation with expanded international partnerships, Iran aims to strengthen its space infrastructure and establish a more resilient, self-reliant position within the global space industry.
Iran Upgrades Shahed-149 Drone to Include GPS Anti-Jamming and Anti-Spoofing Capabilities
Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force has significantly upgraded the capabilities of its Shahed-149 “Gaza” wide-body combat drone by integrating advanced anti-jamming and anti-spoofing technologies aimed at countering electronic warfare threats. This enhancement improves the drone’s resilience against signal interference tactics designed to disrupt its navigation and control systems. The improvements were highlighted during Iran’s debut participation at the LAAD 2025 defense exhibition in Brazil, where the Gaza drone was prominently showcased. The Shahed-149, Iran’s largest UAV to date, features a 21-meter wingspan, 3.1-ton weight, and a 500-kilogram payload capacity, with an endurance of up to 35 hours and a 2,000-kilometer operational range. The drone’s upgraded navigation receivers and specialized antennas, also seen in earlier models like the Shahed-129, position it as a more formidable platform for long-range strike, surveillance, and multi-mission applications—including combat, reconnaissance, and disaster response. This advancement underscores Iran’s intent to demonstrate growing UAV autonomy and resilience in increasingly contested electronic environments.
Jordan Space Developments
Starlink Officially Operational in Jordan
Starlink has officially launched its satellite internet service in Jordan, marking another step in its rapid expansion across the Middle East, where it is already operational in Oman, Qatar, and Yemen. The development reflects growing regulatory acceptance in the region, with upcoming availability anticipated in Kuwait and Bahrain, and pending approvals in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Starlink’s use of a vast constellation of over 7,000 low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites at approximately 550km altitude allows it to deliver low-latency, high-speed internet without reliance on terrestrial infrastructure, making it particularly valuable in remote and conflict-affected regions. The UAE’s licensing of Starlink for maritime satellite services signals further regional integration and long-term operational plans. Industry experts project the satellite broadband market could reach $400 billion by 2040, a significant portion of the expected $1 trillion global space economy. Starlink’s dominance, however, is facing emerging competition, notably from Amazon’s Project Kuiper, which recently initiated the launch of its first 27 satellites. With over 100 countries now served and demand surging, Starlink is not only redefining global connectivity but also intensifying the strategic race to lead in space-based internet infrastructure.
Orange Jordan and Eutelsat Launch Satellite Internet Services in Jordan
Orange Jordan has launched a satellite internet service aimed at bridging the digital divide by delivering high-speed connectivity to remote and underserved areas across Jordan, in alignment with its broader regional strategy. The offering includes three competitively priced subscription plans—Essential, Advanced, and Premium—ranging from 20 to 100 Mbps download speeds and unlimited data, leveraging Eutelsat’s KONNECT satellite technology. This move follows Orange’s March 2025 partnership with Eutelsat to expand satellite internet services across Jordan, Côte d'Ivoire, Senegal, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, targeting rural accessibility gaps. Orange Middle East and Africa CEO Jérôme Hénique underscored the initiative's role in connecting 160 million regional customers and supporting inclusive digital transformation, while Eutelsat Connectivity Business Unit President Cyril Dujardin emphasized the importance of combining satellite infrastructure with Orange’s local reach. Concurrently, Orange Jordan is enhancing its terrestrial network with 5G rollouts in Amman and Irbid, reinforcing its role as a critical enabler of economic growth and digital inclusion in the Middle East.
Regional Space News
Oman’s Ruler Grants License to OmanSat to Establish and Operate Satellite Communications System
Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik has issued Royal Decree 40/2025, granting a Category 1 license to Satellite Communications Technologies Company (OmanSat) to establish and operate a satellite communications system in Oman. This strategic move authorizes OmanSat to deliver fixed public communication services, including broadband internet and satellite connectivity for communication stations, with a particular focus on expanding access in rural regions. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) emphasized that the licensing aligns with national efforts to promote investment in advanced technologies, enhance infrastructure accessibility and security, and foster a dynamic regulatory environment. The entry of OmanSat into the market is expected to bolster telecommunications infrastructure, increase service competitiveness, and position Oman as a regional player in satellite communications.
Starlink’s Arrival in Armenia Provides Redundancy Against Geopolitical Risk
Starlink’s launch in Armenia marks a strategic enhancement of the country’s digital infrastructure, offering high-speed satellite internet access across even its most remote and mountainous regions. While not a replacement for the country’s inexpensive and extensive fibre-optic networks, Starlink provides a crucial redundancy layer amid geopolitical vulnerabilities, such as Armenia’s reliance on two external internet cables that have proven susceptible to outages and sabotage. Analysts emphasize that Starlink’s value lies in ensuring uninterrupted connectivity during crises—particularly for military operations in difficult terrain, critical sectors like finance and IT, and rural communities with limited access. Though weather sensitivity and cost prevent it from overtaking local providers in urban markets, Starlink bolsters Armenia’s resilience and digital sovereignty, acting as a fail-safe against censorship, surveillance, and geopolitical disruption. Its role as a secure, uncensored, and rapidly deployable backup makes it a vital asset in the country’s evolving communications ecosystem.
Kuwait’s KU Hosts UAE Astronauts to Encourage Kuwaiti Youth to Pursue STEM Education
Kuwait University (KU) reaffirmed its commitment to advancing science, technology, and space education among youth through a high-profile exhibition at Sabah Al Salem University City, hosted by its College of Science and the Physics Department. The event featured UAE astronauts Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, Mohammad Al Mulla, and Nora Al Matrooshi, who engaged over 300 middle and high school students as part of the concluding phase of the “Journey to Space” program. Dr. Al Neyadi, celebrated for completing a six-month mission—the longest by an Arab astronaut—delivered a presentation on the technical and physical challenges of space missions. KU President Dr. Dina Al Mailam emphasized the university’s goal of equipping the next generation with skills and inspiration in space science, reflecting a broader regional effort to cultivate STEM capabilities and elevate Arab participation in the global space sector. This initiative highlights the increasing role of academic institutions in the Gulf in promoting space literacy and fostering strategic ties with pioneering spacefaring countries like the UAE.
Space Collaboration on the Agenda in Egypt-Hungary Economic & Scientific Talks
Egypt is set to host the fifth session of the Egyptian-Hungarian Joint Committee for Economic, Scientific, and Technical Cooperation, with a preparatory meeting chaired by Minister Rania Al Mashat emphasizing multisectoral collaboration, including critical discussions involving the Egyptian Space Agency. The space sector's inclusion alongside key national stakeholders signals Egypt’s intent to expand bilateral cooperation with Hungary into advanced technology domains. The agenda reflects growing momentum in Egyptian-Hungarian relations, bolstered by historical diplomatic ties and recent high-level engagements between both countries' leaderships. The presence of the Egyptian Space Agency in this high-profile economic dialogue underscores Egypt’s ambition to integrate satellite and space-based capabilities into broader national development and international partnerships. Discussions over the two-day expert-level meetings covered mutual interests such as environmental protection, infrastructure, and technology, and culminated in preparations for an Egyptian-Hungarian Business Forum, which aims to enhance private sector investment, including in space-related innovation.
Qatar Airways Nears Installation of Starlink SATCOM Kits Throughout Boeing 777 Fleet
Qatar Airways is nearing full deployment of SpaceX’s Starlink inflight Wi-Fi across its Boeing 777 fleet, completing the ambitious retrofit in just six months and exceeding initial targets. Originally planning to equip three aircraft by end-2024, the airline accelerated its rollout, retrofitting 30 Boeing 777s by early April and now preparing to expand Starlink installations to its Airbus A350s—marking the system's first use on that aircraft type. The eventual goal is fleet-wide implementation, including Boeing 787s and narrowbody Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s. Starlink’s rapid installation time—reportedly as short as eight hours—offers a significant competitive edge over traditional inflight connectivity systems, facilitating faster retrofits with minimal operational disruption.
Be sure to catch up with space activities in the region in the next edition of Middle East Space Monitor’s space roundup!