ROKETSAN develops ŞİMŞEK launch systems for independent space access

ROKETSAN is advancing Turkey’s independent access to space through the development of the ŞİMŞEK satellite launch system family. General Manager Murat İkinci detailed the progress of two primary projects: ŞİMŞEK 1, designed to carry a 400-kilogram payload to an altitude of approximately 500 kilometers, and ŞİMŞEK 2, which aims to transport 1.5-ton payloads to a 700-kilometer orbit. The latter is intended for commercialization and international cooperation.

To reduce costs, the company is also working on reusable rocket stages. These efforts are supported by a space excellence center established in 2020 and involve collaboration with universities and industry partners to master critical technologies such as propulsion, navigation, and thermal materials.

Additionally, ROKETSAN Chairman Faruk Yiğit emphasized the integration of artificial intelligence into the company’s future technology roadmap for rockets, missiles, and space systems. The company also noted the growing international scale of its rocket competitions held during TEKNOFEST.