Thales Alenia to supply software-defined satellite to Es’hailSat

Details: Vaughan O'Grady; Category: Satellite Networks; 01 July 2026; 274 views

Thales Alenia Space, the joint venture between French aerospace and defence corporations Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), has announced the signing of a contract with Es’hailSat, the Qatar Satellite Company, to develop a new-generation software-defined satellite.

It will be 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 Turksat.

Eshail-3/Turksat-Biruni will rely on Space INSPIRE, which is described as a highly flexible and fully software-defined solution offering instant in-orbit adjustment to broadband connectivity demands, while optimising 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 says it is responsible for the design, manufacturing, testing, and on-ground delivery of the satellite, as well as for the ground segment and associated services.

Mr Ali Ahmed Al-Kuwari, President and CEO at Es’hailSat, says: “Eshail-3/Türksat-Biruni will not only expand our coverage and capabilities into new strategic markets, but also strengthen the resilience and independence of Qatar’s communications infrastructure.”

Hervé Derrey, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space, adds: “Today’s contract is significant for Thales Alenia Space as it recognises our ability to offer an innovative, fully digitalised telecommunications satellite that can be reprogrammed in orbit, along with the capability to integrate hosted payloads serving both commercial and governmental requirements.”