Türkiye’s drone maker aims high with Fergani Space’s satellite ambitions
Bayraktar TB2 UAV and Selcuk Bayraktar along with Haluk Bayraktar. (Photo via LinkedIn)
Selcuk Bayraktar, the mastermind behind Türkiye’s groundbreaking Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles, has revealed that his company, Fergani Space, is gearing up to launch its inaugural satellite.
The satellite is part of Fergani Space’s broader initiative to develop low-Earth orbit satellite constellations and orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs).
‘Fergani is like Baykar 10 years ago’
“Fergani is like Baykar 10 years ago,” Bayraktar said. “We are currently working with a team of 70-80 engineers, focusing on producing low-Earth orbit satellite constellations and launching our first satellite this year. In addition, we are working on orbital transfer vehicles and launch systems.”
Bayraktar emphasized the company’s ambitions in the space industry, focusing on innovative technologies for satellite constellations and space logistics.
Fergani Space has not yet disclosed details regarding the specific subsystems or partners involved in the development of its first satellite, which is described as a test model with no information released on its operational use.
Fergani’s satellite constellations, space operations
The demand for satellite services, particularly in low-Earth orbit, has increased globally. In response, Fergani Space is developing a satellite platform aligned with the concept of satellite constellations, designed to provide services across various sectors including maritime, aviation, Internet of Things, meteorology and logistics.
Fergani’s micro-satellites, each weighing approximately 100 kilograms, will operate at altitudes of 500-600 kilometers. These satellites are expected to carry payloads for communication and geographic positioning. Fergani Space aims to establish a global network using Ku, Ka, S, and L-band communication systems.
In addition to the satellites, ground infrastructure to monitor, manage and facilitate satellite communications will also be established. Fergani Space’s move into the space sector follows its parent company Baykar’s success in UAVs.
Orbital transfer vehicles and space logistics
As the number of satellites in orbit rapidly increases, the need for orbital transfer vehicles (OTVs) has become more critical for Türkiye’s Space Program. Fergani Space is developing these systems to address the growing demand for satellites to move between different orbits after launch.
“Orbital transfer vehicles are becoming essential due to the mismatch between satellite operators’ desired orbits and the predefined launch trajectories,” Bayraktar stated. Without an OTV, satellite operators may face delays or increased costs to reach their intended orbits.
Fergani’s OTV solution will allow satellites to be deployed as secondary payloads and then moved to their designated orbits. This service is expected to provide a competitive advantage to satellite operators, enhancing operational flexibility and reducing costs.
Partnership with Saudi Arabia
Fergani Space also signed a preliminary agreement with Saudi Arabia’s defense company, Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI).
Technological development and testing
Fergani Space continues to make strides in developing its propulsion technology. Bayraktar recently shared the success of the company’s hydrogen peroxide-based space engine during a test. “Our whole team is excited,” he remarked.
The company’s two main product lines include the satellite constellations and the orbital transfer vehicle, both of which are designed to meet the increasing demand for efficient and cost-effective satellite services.
Fergani Space’s vision is to “expand humanity’s horizon in the New Space era,” while its mission is to “become a global leader in space transportation and LEO satellite services by providing sustainable and cost-effective solutions through innovative and unique technologies.”
