Central Eurasia’s growing role in the global space industry took centre stage at the Space Technology Conference 2026, where regional players outlined new satellite projects, investment plans and opportunities for international cooperation.
The forum brought together government agencies, private companies and international organisations to discuss the future of the region’s space ecosystem, with particular attention on Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Türkiye.
Azerbaijan continues to expand its capabilities through Azercosmos, focusing on both satellite development and education initiatives.
Vugar Bayramov, Advisor to the Chairman on International Relations, told AnewZ that the agency is advancing plans for a new Earth observation satellite that was agreed with partners last year. He also noted that Azerbaijan is working towards establishing a spacecraft development centre and has launched a space academy, where projects such as a Pocket CubeSat have already been developed by school students.
Kazakhstan remains a cornerstone of global space infrastructure through the Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world’s largest operational launch facility. The country continues to balance its historic role in international launches with efforts to strengthen its domestic satellite and digital space technologies.
Türkiye, meanwhile, is accelerating its ambitions through the Turkish Space Agency, building on recent milestones in human spaceflight. In 2024, Alper Gezeravcı became the country’s first astronaut, marking a significant step in Ankara’s long-term space strategy, which includes satellite production and future lunar missions.
Experts at the conference emphasised that collaboration will be critical for emerging space nations seeking to compete globally.
Christian Feichtinger, Executive Director of the International Astronautical Federation speaking to AnewZ highlighted the importance of equal partnerships, noting that countries entering the space sector must contribute meaningfully to joint initiatives.
He pointed to Uzbekistan’s rapid digital transformation and strategic position in Central Asia as key advantages, adding that the country is already emerging as an important partner within the global space community.
As host of STC 2026, Uzbekistan is increasingly positioning itself as a regional hub for space cooperation, with plans to develop its own satellite capabilities and expand international partnerships.
The conference is also seen as a stepping stone towards an even larger global event - the International Astronautical Congress 2028, which Uzbekistan is set to host in Samarkand.
As Feichtinger noted, Uzbekistan’s active engagement and regional leadership are helping it establish itself as a credible and relevant player in the global space industry, reflecting a broader shift as Central Eurasia strengthens its presence on the international stage.
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