[Satellite Today 07-20-09] Telespazio has signed a 250 million euro ($349.90 million) contract to build the Göktürk satellite system for the Turkish Undersecretariat For Defense Industries, Telespazio anounced July 16.
    The agreement covers the supply of an earth observation satellite equipped with a high-resolution optical sensor, an integration and test center for satellites to be built in Turkey, and the entire ground segment of the system, which will carry out in-orbit operation, data acquisition and processing.
    The Göktürk program will be managed by Telespazio as prime contractor, Thales Alenia Space, who will be responsible for the satellite, and local industrial partners including Tai A.S., Tubitak Uekae, Maleri, Aselsan A.S. and Roketsan A.S. Telespazio will also be responsible for the satellite launch, early orbit and test services.
    As part of the project, a joint venture will be created between Telespazio and a local partner to develop and market application services.