MUSCAT
February 14, 2026
Oman is preparing to launch OmanSat-1, its first national communications satellite, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen digital sovereignty and establish independent space-based communications infrastructure. Officials say the project will reduce reliance on foreign satellite operators while enhancing the security and resilience of national telecommunications services.
OmanSat-1 is designed to support broadband connectivity, secure institutional networks, and satellite communications across critical sectors including oil and gas, aviation, and maritime transport. The satellite will provide coverage across Oman, its exclusive economic waters, and parts of the Middle East, East Africa, and Asia, enabling both domestic and regional connectivity services.
Built on Airbus’ OneSat digital platform, the satellite will feature in-orbit reconfiguration capabilities, allowing operational flexibility and improved competitiveness compared to traditional satellite systems. The project is expected to strengthen service continuity during emergencies or disruptions to terrestrial networks, supporting national security and economic stability.
The initiative represents a strategic shift for Oman, positioning the country as a satellite operator and service provider rather than solely a consumer of international satellite capacity. Operations will be managed by Space Communication Technologies (SCT), a company owned by the Oman Investment Authority, with a dedicated project management office overseeing implementation and ground infrastructure readiness.
Ground delivery of OmanSat-1 is scheduled for June 2028, with commercial services expected to begin by May 2029. The project aligns with broader national ambitions to develop Oman’s space sector, including capacity-building initiatives, support for space startups, and expansion of space-related services.
