Türkiye eyes space ambitions with 50-ton launch project

Selcuk Bayraktar, Chairman of Baykar, a well-known drone maker company in Türkiye, announced that Türkiye has shifted its focus to space after the success of its unmanned combat aircraft, Kizilelma.

Bayraktar revealed that Baykar is now working on developing a 50-ton launch system, marking the country’s ambition for space independence. During his speech, Selcuk Bayraktar also touched upon the problems in the world, “Humanity has already reached the capacity to destroy the whole world,” he said, adding, “A new world needs to be built.”

Space next frontier for Türkiye’s defense industry

Speaking at the SAHA EXPO International Defense, Aviation, and Space Industry Fair, Bayraktar highlighted the importance of having a presence in space to protect national interests. “To safeguard our lands and rule the Blue Homeland, we must dominate the skies. And to protect the skies, we must have a presence in space,” he asserted.

During his speech, Bayraktar said: “A transformation is taking place in air combat. Manned fighter jets are giving way to unmanned fighter jets.”

Development of launch systems, satellite platforms underway

Bayraktar also shared that the company had started working on space launch systems, with a 50-ton launch vehicle for development. The first test rocket is expected to be launched by 2026. Additionally, Bayraktar mentioned the “Fergani” initiative, which aims to build a global positioning system using satellite constellations, along with orbit transfer platforms.

AI and domestic production lead Türkiye’s technological progress

Bayraktar discussed Baykar’s advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), noting that the technology is integrated into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enhance flight safety. He emphasized that Türkiye’s reliance on foreign defense technology had drastically reduced, with domestic production exceeding 90%.