Ankara: The Turkish space industry is gaining traction with homegrown propulsion systems for satellites developed by companies such as DeltaV Space Technologies, which offer such systems for a wide range of satellites. Trkiye's achievements in the space sector continue with homegrown technologies ranging from satellites to orbital transfer vehicles, with propulsion systems playing a key role in bringing these technologies to reality.
According to Anadolu Agency, Mehmet Kahraman, general manager of DeltaV, stated that the company was established as a subsidiary of Trkiye's Defense Industries Agency (SSB) in 2017 with the goal of developing homegrown systems to enhance the country's independent access to space. DeltaV has built probe rockets reaching over 100 kilometers and has diversified its capabilities to include products for the defense industry. One of DeltaV's significant projects is in Trkiye's lunar research program, in collaboration with the Turkish Space Agency and TUBITAK Space, aiming for a hard landing on the Moon with a launch planned in 2027.
Kahraman highlighted that satellites utilize chemical propulsion systems for orbital corrections, previously imported but now domestically developed and in use. DeltaV's propulsion systems are available to other Turkish firms like Fergani Space and Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI). The company's transition from hybrid technology to single-fuel propellants marks a significant advancement, and they are also developing liquid-fueled engines for orbital transfers.
He emphasized the importance of homegrown liquid-fueled rocket engines in ensuring Trkiye's sovereignty in space and noted DeltaV's position as a leader in hybrid rocket technology. The firm has developed unique internal ballistic technology and a large rocket engine that has set a world record by reaching over 200 kilometers in altitude. Work continues on enhancing the hypersonic test platform's capabilities.
In the defense sector, DeltaV's progress in hybrid engines has been notable within the Goktan project, which integrates Aselsan's Tolun ammunition with a DeltaV-developed rocket system. DeltaV's ramjet propulsion system, currently being tested, operates at supersonic speeds and offers significant defense applications. The ramjet engine's capability to enhance the speed of aircraft and missiles to supersonic levels provides strategic advantages.
Kahraman explained the potential applications of ramjet technology in defense, including its use in cruise missiles and sixth-generation fighter jets, highlighting the capability to reach supersonic speeds of Mach 2.5 and 3.