Israel among final contenders for Azerbaijan's new communications satellite

Azerbaijan is in the final stages of selecting a new communications satellite, with several international aerospace companies competing for the high-value contract. 

Among the top contenders is Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), which has advanced to the last phase of the tender process, Globes has learned, Caliber.Az cites.

The planned satellite will be a major addition to Azerbaijan’s space infrastructure, with capabilities expected to match the highest international standards. The system is set to support the country’s long-term communications needs and is projected to cost between $300 million and $800 million, depending on the final configuration.

IAI’s Dror 1, launched successfully from SpaceX’s Cape Canaveral site on July 13, is believed to serve as a model for the Azerbaijani project. Weighing 4.5 tons with a wingspan of 17.6 meters, Dror 1 orbits the Earth at an altitude of about 36,000 kilometers and completes a revolution every 90 minutes. 

In addition to IAI, three other companies remain in the running: France-Italy’s Thales Alenia Space; Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ); and U.S.-based SpaceX, which is also a launch provider but may be involved on the supply side.

The competition reflects Azerbaijan’s growing ambitions in the space sector. In October 2023, the country signed a $120 million agreement with IAI to acquire two OptSat500 observation satellites. The first is currently being built in Israel, while the second will be constructed in Azerbaijan beginning in 2026. Both are scheduled for launch in 2028.

The OptSat500 deal was signed as part of a long-term cooperation agreement between Azercosmos and IAI, which includes technology transfer and training programs aimed at developing local expertise in space technologies.

By Sabina Mammadli