Turksat 5B: 4 Years Advancing Türkiye's Space & Global Connectivity
Mission Milestones and Technical Capabilities
Launched on 19 December 2021 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, the satellite began operations on 14 June 2022 after five and a half months of testing and orbital positioning. With a design life of around 15 years, Turksat 5B features a fully electric propulsion system and is classified as a high-efficiency satellite.
"Turksat 5B is a strategic investment strengthening Türkiye’s space capabilities, communications infrastructure, and technological ecosystem," stated Abdulkadir Uraloglu, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.
The satellite delivers at least 20 times the capacity of traditional Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) satellites, enhancing:
- Broadband services across Türkiye and the region.
- In-flight internet, maritime, and aviation connectivity.
- Robust disaster communication capabilities.
- Commercial and governmental networks in the Middle East and Africa.
International Partnerships and Domestic Legacy
The satellite's development involved collaboration with Airbus Defense and Space and SpaceX, incorporating Turkish technology. Its success has directly paved the way for future national projects:
- Turksat 6A: Türkiye’s first fully homegrown communications satellite.
- Turksat 7A: An ongoing project informed by the 5B experience.
Expanding Global Reach Through Recent Deals
Over the past year, Turksat 5B has facilitated key international agreements, including:
- Cooperation with China’s Chinasat and Spacesail for in-flight connectivity and multi-orbit integration tech.
- Partnerships with Intersputnik and the UK-based Avanti Communications to enhance broadband in South Africa and globally.
These initiatives underscore Türkiye's growing role as a significant player in global satellite communications, leveraging Turksat 5B as a cornerstone of its orbital infrastructure for years to come.
