Türksat General Manager Ahmet Hamdi Atalay emphasized that many technologies used in civilian applications are now also used in the defense sector, and said, “Türksat primarily serves our region and civilian needs in the field of television broadcasting and communication with its six satellites. However, with our wide coverage area covering a large part of the world, we also have the ability to meet the needs of our armed forces. Defense and civilian applications can no longer be separated in technology. The R&D power of the civilian sector should also be used in defense.”
Speaking at the Dual-Use Technologies and Defense Industry Applications Panel at SAHA Expo 2024, Atalay noted the necessity of leveraging technological products and expertise developed for civilian use in the defense industry. He argued that the boundaries between defense and civilian technology have blurred. Highlighting that 90% of Turkey's defense industry has been established and expanded in the last 20 years, Atalay pointed out that innovation in the defense sector tends to lag behind the civilian sector. He emphasized that integrating civilian advancements into defense is crucial for technological progress. Atalay said, “At companies like Aselsan, Havelsan, and TUSAŞ, civilian innovation has significantly contributed to the current state of our defense sector. However, given the pace, expertise, and R&D investments in the civilian sector, it’s critical not to overlook it. The R&D processes are not distinct as defense or civilian,”
-“Technology Knows No Civilian or Military Boundaries”
Atalay explained that products developed in areas like cybersecurity, autonomous systems, simulators, and training technologies are applicable to both fields. Atalay stated that this also applies to communication Technologies ano adding, "Technology itself does not change; only certain requirements differ. Technologies such as energy systems, data storage, IT and network technologies are universal. The use of defense products in civilian applications can accelerate growth in the defense industry. Today, the largest R&D investments worldwide come from the automotive and technology sectors."
-Six Communication Satellites in Service
Atalay described Türksat as an exemplary organization for dual-use technologies, he said, “We are a civilian company, but we provide products and solutions for military and armed forces’ needs. Our satellites designed for civilian purposes also meet the requirements of the Turkish Armed Forces.” Atalay, mentioned that Türksat currently operates six communication satellites, with Türksat 6A expected to complete testing next month and enter service by the end of the year and, “Türksat provides communication services, primarily for civilian needs in our region. However, our satellites’ vast coverage area allows us to address the needs of our armed forces," said.
-Satellite Communication Ensures Uninterrupted Service During Natural Disasters
Atalay highlighted that satellite services are vital in regions and situations where communication infrastructure cannot be established. He explained, “Through our satellites, we can provide services in every area required by our state, nation, and armed forces. Satellite technology ensures connectivity in places where no other infrastructure can reach, making it invaluable not just for military use but also during natural disasters. In such scenarios, we provide uninterrupted communication across a wide coverage area.”
-“Türksat Has Established Over 4.000 Base Stations”
Atalay also discussed Türksat’s role in extending communication infrastructure to underserved areas. He stated, “Türksat installs base stations in villages and settlements where communication infrastructure is lacking, using resources from the Universal Service Fund. To date, Türksat has established more than 4.000 base stations, ensuring communication services in remote areas. We will continue to meet the needs of our state and people wherever required.”