Image: Shutterstock
What’s new: Turkiye’s project to establish a regional satellite navigation system using cubesats is progressing.
Why it’s important: The project reflects the desire of many countries to have their own, sovereign, PNT system. For Turkiye, it is also undoubtedly an effort to further develop its tech economy. The skills and capabilities needed to develop a satnav system apply to numerous fields and will greatly enhance their national defense and economic posture.
What else to know:
- This satnav system is part of a larger national space program begun in 2018. See presentation here.
- Turkiye has a number of terrestrial PNT efforts also. See for example:
Türkiye set to launch own navigation and maps app
Türkiye is developing the Regional Positioning and Timing System (BKZS) to introduce its own GPS and mapping application, aiming to decrease reliance on foreign technology.
Türkiye’s Ministry of Industry and Technology stated that the country seeks to enhance its cybersecurity as automation in industrial production continues to grow. Cybersecurity solutions developed using Türkiye’s own resources will position the country as a key player in digital transformation.
A game-changer for GPS
The BKZS navigation and mapping system will enable Türkiye to offer accurate location and navigation data through its own satellites, providing an alternative to global systems like GPS.
This system will be used to secure military operations, ensure continuous civilian communications, support smart transportation, enable precision agriculture, and more.
