Turkey’s national satellite operator, Turksat, initiated Ka-Band satellite-based internet services in Syria, marking a significant step in restoring connectivity to regions devastated by years of civil war and infrastructure collapse, according to Yeni Şafak.
The deployment follows high-level negotiations in Damascus this week between a Turksat delegation led by CEO Ahmet Hamdi Atalay and Syrian ministers, including Communications and IT Minister Abdul Salam Haykal and Information Minister Hamza al-Mustafa.
The agreement positions Turksat as Syria’s lead partner for communication infrastructure and digital transformation. Using the Turksat 5B satellite, the Ka-Band high-capacity internet now delivers sustainable, uninterrupted connectivity to public institutions in areas lacking fibre or cable networks.
Satellite terminals have been installed at critical locations nationwide, enabling secure digital public services including e-government platforms, emergency communication systems, and broadcasting solutions. Turksat confirmed plans to expand terminal installations across Syria in the coming months to enhance coverage further.
In addition to internet access, Turksat provides turnkey solutions encompassing television and radio broadcasting, disaster response networks, and dedicated infrastructure for private networks. This comprehensive support aims to facilitate Syria’s broader digital transition, backed by Turkey’s technical expertise.
The initiative addresses Syria’s acute connectivity crisis, where prolonged conflict destroyed telecommunications infrastructure, and deliberate restrictions previously limited citizens’ online access.
The Damascus meetings underscored a mutual commitment to modernising Syria’s communications. Atalay emphasised Turksat’s role in supporting “satellite communications, disaster communication, and digital transformation of public services” during talks with Deputy Minister of Emergency and Disaster Hussam Ahmed al-Halak. This collaboration aligns with Turkey’s earlier offer to rebuild Syria’s internet infrastructure entirely, as announced by Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu in March 2025.
The project holds geopolitical significance, bridging Syrian reconstruction needs with Turkish satellite capabilities. However, it also raises concerns about data sovereignty, as Syrian user data will transit through Turkish infrastructure.
