BKZS: Türkiye’s regional GNSS system takes shape

Photo: Ramberg / E+ / Getty Images

Türkiye is laying the groundwork for its own satellite navigation system, the Bölgesel Konumlama ve Zamanlama Sistemi (BKZS), or Regional Positioning and Timing System. As a key pillar of Türkiye’s 2030 Industry and Technology Strategy, BKZS reflects the country’s ambition to gain strategic autonomy in satellite-based positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), moving away from dependence on foreign systems such as GPS.

Strategic imperatives and security concerns

BKZS was established as one of the ten flagship goals of Türkiye’s National Space Program, introduced in 2021. It directly addresses growing national security concerns: in times of geopolitical conflict, GNSS signals can be jammed or disabled — leaving nations vulnerable if reliant on foreign services. President Erdoğan’s 2030 roadmap emphasizes preparing for “a new era of challenges,” where technological independence is seen as vital to national sovereignty.

Building the foundation: Atomic clocks and CubeSats

At the core of BKZS development is innovative timing technology. The TUBITAK National Metrology Institute has designed Türkiye’s first domestically produced rubidium-based atomic clock for use in positioning satellites. Developed in collaboration with the Turkish Space Agency, the prototype is undergoing qualification testing. Considering that atomic clocks are among the most expensive and sensitive components of a GNSS system, their in-house development not only reduces reliance on foreign suppliers but also delivers significant cost savings and strengthens national expertise. The strategic plan involves an initial technology demonstration phase using a 6U CubeSat, a miniaturized satellite based on the CubeSat standard. This satellite — currently in production — will test the atomic clock in orbit and gather critical performance data, helping to validate system components and gain operational experience ahead of full deployment.

Regional scope with global ambitions

BKZS is being designed as a regional system focused on Türkiye and its surrounding geography. Preliminary architecture envisions an eight-satellite constellation with an estimated cost of $2.8 billion. While this figure underscores the program’s scale, it also reflects the strategic priority attached to securing sovereign PNT capabilities. Military users stand to gain the most immediate benefits, with access to secure, independent timing and positioning data. However, the system is also intended for broad civilian use, including smart transportation systems, precision agriculture, emergency response and disaster management.

Integrated into a broader space strategy

BKZS is not being developed in isolation. It is part of Türkiye’s wider National Space Program, which includes lunar exploration and autonomous launch capabilities. The Turkish Space Agency oversees coordination, while the Presidency of Defense Industries provides funding and logistical support. This ecosystem approach is designed to foster technological self-reliance across the entire space value chain. Notably, the private sector is also playing a role. Baykar’s space subsidiary, Fergani, is developing a complementary Turkish GNSS constellation with an ambitious plan to launch 100 satellites. Two of these satellites have already been built, with the first scheduled for launch in 2024, demonstrating multiple pathways toward achieving full domestic capability.

Economic impact and industrial development

BKZS also supports Türkiye’s economic goals. The 2030 Strategy includes a target to triple high-tech exports to $30 billion. Space technology is expected to contribute significantly to this goal by generating new opportunities for Turkish firms in satellite design, navigation electronics and advanced manufacturing.

By fostering domestic expertise, BKZS strengthens the foundation for a sustainable, self-sufficient aerospace sector, one capable of supporting both defense and commercial applications.

Aligning with a global trend

Türkiye’s efforts echo a growing global trend: building regional or national GNSS systems to reduce reliance on global services. Reflecting this shift, India’s NavIC is a fully operational regional GNSS; Japan’s QZSS, also operational, functions primarily as a GPS augmentation system over the Asia-Pacific; South Korea’s KPS is currently under development to provide independent PNT services across the Korean Peninsula. China’s BeiDou system also began as a regional constellation focused on the Asia-Pacific before expanding to become a global navigation system. Türkiye’s geographic position — at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East — positions it uniquely as a potential regional hub for satellite navigation services. While the project is rooted in national objectives, it also opens the door to international cooperation. Italy has emerged as a prospective partner, particularly in advancing space-qualified technologies, offering mutual benefits for both countries.

Looking ahead

Beyond 2030, TTürkiye envisions BKZS as a stepping stone toward a broader space infrastructure. This initiative signifies a strategic commitment to establishing a sustained and autonomous presence in space.

Of course, the success of BKZS will depend on more than ambition. Sustained political commitment, reliable funding, and continued advances in core technologies like atomic clocks and satellite systems will be essential. If these conditions are met, BKZS has the potential not only to enhance Türkiye’s strategic autonomy but also to establish the country as a key contributor to regional — and potentially global — GNSS capability.