Turkey plans domestic navigation app and Moon mission by 2027

Turkey is advancing several strategic technology and space initiatives aimed at increasing technological independence. Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacır announced plans to transition to a domestic map and navigation application by the beginning of 2027, citing data security as a primary driver. This project is expected to involve contributions from the domestic electric vehicle manufacturer Togg.

In the aerospace sector, Turkey aims to become one of the nine countries to reach the Moon. A lunar spacecraft developed by TÜBİTAK UZAY, featuring a domestic hybrid propulsion system and over 80% local content, is targeted for launch in 2027. Additionally, the government plans to establish a spaceport in Somalia to leverage its proximity to the equator, which could reduce launch costs by approximately 30%.

To support these ambitions, Turkey plans to allocate 92.1 billion lira to space and aviation activities between 2027 and 2029. This includes significant investments in satellite technologies and aviation infrastructure, with a goal of serving up to 291 million passengers annually by 2029.