Kazakistan and Lüksemburg Preparing for Collaboration on Next-Generation Satellite Project

Kazakistan is conducting advanced negotiations with SES S.A., one of the world's largest satellite communication operators, to develop joint space projects. During a critical meeting held as part of the "Digital Week" in Cenevre, Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakistan and Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development Jaslan Madiev met with senior executives of the Lüksemburg-based company. The main agenda item of the discussions was the development of new generation software-defined satellites (SDS) and the advancement of joint space initiatives. Additionally, the management of orbital and frequency resources between the two parties was discussed in detail. These negotiations form a crucial part of Kazakistan's strategy to strengthen its digital infrastructure and integrate into global telecommunication networks.

At the center of the discussions is the Software-defined Satellite (SDS) project, planned to be launched in the 57° east longitude orbit. Unlike widely used classical satellites, SDS is a next-generation technology with a fully software-based architecture. The greatest advantage of this satellite is that its components can be reconfigured even after being launched into space. The satellite's coverage areas, power distribution, and frequency settings can be remotely altered via software from Earth and instantly optimized according to need. This flexibility reduces costs compared to traditional methods and maximizes the satellite's operational efficiency.

Kazakistan officials stated that they are highly open to a long-term and comprehensive collaboration with a global-scale satellite operator. However, Deputy Prime Minister Madiev emphasized that the realization of this project depends on one fundamental condition: the complete protection of Kazakistan's national strategic interests and security. Accordingly, it was demanded that the control operations of the satellite to be sent into orbit be conducted directly from within Kazakistan territories. Ministry officials noted that this approach complies with the country's national legislation and will increase the resilience of its digital infrastructure against international interference.

Another important topic on the negotiation table was the project's financial dimension and the management of existing orbital congestion. The Kazakistan side reaffirmed its pre-established economic limits and strict budget conditions to increase the efficiency of future investments, demonstrating that it will not compromise on fiscal discipline. On the other hand, the dense clustering of existing satellite systems in the 57°, 58,5°, and 60° east longitude orbits is a technical concern. This situation necessitates much stricter technical cooperation between the two parties to prevent signal interference and avoid frequency overlaps.

Kazakistan regards the flawless and uninterrupted operation of all next-generation satellite systems, including the new KazSat-3R satellite planned to be launched into space in the near future, as a priority state policy. Therefore, Minister Madiev requested the re-initiation of regular consultation processes between technical teams to minimize potential system risks and ensure operational coordination. At the end of the discussions, both sides demonstrated their determination to continue dialogue processes until they find a mutually beneficial common ground. This step by SES (2025'te 2,63 milyar Euro ciro), which possesses one of the world's leading satellite networks, is expected to significantly increase Kazakistan's prestige in the international space market and its indigenous technological capacity.