ASELSAN Introduced the First Sample of the GÖKBAĞ LEO Satellite Constellation

ASELSAN showed the first real satellite sample of the GÖKBAĞ LEO satellite constellation, which will consist of 198 satellites, to the public for the first time.

ASELSAN exhibited the first real satellite example of the GÖKBAĞ project at the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) held in Antalya. ASELSAN General Manager Ahmet Akyol announced that the constellation system, which will consist of approximately 200 satellites, has been developed as a structure in which 198 satellites will work together.

It was stated that the GÖKBAĞ project was started last year in line with the needs of the state and is still in the design phase. Akyol stated that the constellations will begin to be launched in 2028 and 2029 and that the GÖKBAĞ network will be created in space during this process.

To be used in navigation and communication

GÖKBAĞ, which will operate in LEO orbit, is planned to be used in different areas, especially navigation and communication. Thus, the project aims to increase Turkey's capacity in satellite-based communication and positioning infrastructure.

ASELSAN does not only develop the satellite platform within the scope of GÖKBAĞ. Various sub-components to be used in satellites are also designed within the company.

Satellite chips are also developed by ASELSAN

One of the striking aspects of the project is that the chips to be used on the satellite are also developed by ASELSAN. Ahmet Akyol explained that the design of BFIC chips is continued within the company, especially in order to increase frequency efficiency.

According to ASELSAN, this approach aims to create a cost-effective design in LEO satellite systems as well as increasing technology ownership in critical sub-components. The company designs many components of GÖKBAĞ within the same development ecosystem.

AESA-based satellite receivers have been developed

In addition to the space segment of GÖKBAĞ, studies are also being carried out on technologies to be used on the ground side. ASELSAN announced that it has developed AESA-based satellite receivers.

These receivers are being developed to allow digital tracking of satellites instead of mechanically moved antennas. The company states that the systems are designed to operate more efficiently and have low visibility features.

New payload for GÖKTÜRK

In addition to GÖKBAĞ, ASELSAN also exhibited a new payload for the GÖKTÜRK satellite at IAC 2026. The developed system aims to increase Turkey's space-based surveillance capabilities and provide different analysis capabilities with under-cloud surveillance.

ASELSAN's investments in the field of space are also supported by capacity increase efforts at Ogulbey Technology Base. The company positions LEO satellite technologies as one of its priority R&D areas.

It will begin to be seen in space in 2028-2029

The current schedule for GÖKBAĞ foresees the launch of 198 satellites in 2028-2029. However, details regarding which launch vehicles and in how many batches the satellites will be sent into orbit have not yet been announced.

With the display of the first real satellite at IAC 2026, the GÖKBAĞ project moved from the concept stage to a new phase where the concrete hardware was shown to the public. In the coming period, it is expected that the design studies of the project will be completed, the production process will progress and the first launch preparations will be clarified.