Turkey’s first domestically produced communication satellite, Türksat 6A, launched on July 8, 2024, is now operational and functioning properly, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space program. Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır announced that the satellite’s first signal was received 67 minutes after launch, and its solar panels were successfully deployed at 05:24 Turkish time at an altitude of 32,479 kilometers.The satellite is currently in an elliptical orbit with a perigee of 300 kilometers and an apogee of 70,000 kilometers. It is expected to reach its final position at 42 degrees east longitude and become fully operational by the end of the year. Türksat 6A will expand Turkey’s satellite coverage, potentially reaching countries such as India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, increasing the population served from 3.5 billion to approximately 5 billion.In parallel developments, Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has announced plans to invest $1 billion in a new factory near Izmir, Turkey. The facility is expected to produce up to 150,000 vehicles annually by the end of 2026 and create around 5,000 jobs. This investment is part of BYD’s strategy to expand its presence in the European market and circumvent EU tariffs on Chinese EVs.These developments highlight Turkey’s growing capabilities in high-tech industries. As emphasized by Minister Kacır, Turkey has become one of only 11 countries globally capable of developing and launching its own communication satellites. The successful launch and operation of Türksat 6A, combined with significant foreign investment in the country’s automotive sector, underscore Turkey’s ambitions to become a major player in both the global space economy and the electric vehicle market.
Key points
- Turkey’s Türksat 6A satellite is now operational, expanding the country’s communication capabilities.
- Chinese EV manufacturer BYD plans to invest $1 billion in a new factory in Turkey.
- These developments showcase Turkey’s growing presence in high-tech industries and its attractiveness for foreign investment.
