30 June 2026 – Thales Alenia Space announces the signing of a contract with Es’hailSat, the Qatar Satellite Company, to develop a new generation software-defined satellite based on the Space INSPIRE (INstant SPace In-orbit REconfiguration) platform by Thales Alenia Space. Named Eshail-3/Türksat-Biruni, this satellite will offer high-speed broadband connectivity services across Europe, Africa, Central Asia and the Middle East, shared with Turkish satellite operator Türksat. Eshail-3/Türksat-Biruni will rely on Space INSPIRE, a highly flexible and fully software-defined solution offering instant in-orbit adjustment to broadband connectivity demands, while optimizing the use of satellite resources. Es’hailSat will leverage the satellite’s flexibility to offer enhanced communications services throughout its lifespan in orbit. As prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space is responsible for the design, manufacturing, testing, and on-ground delivery of the satellite, as well as for the ground segment and associated services. Read more