Turkey is evaluating the purchase of an Israeli-developed Offeq-type intelligence satellite. Meanwhile, Tel Aviv may supply Turkey with images from its Offeq 3 satellite already in orbit if the purchase agreement is concluded.
The issue was discussed during a recent visit of Israeli prime minister Ehud Barak to Turkey. The Turkish defence forces are looking to acquire an autonomous intelligence sensor that will allow them to monitor neighbouring countries, mainly Iraq.
The close defence ties between Israel and Turkey have already resulted in a constant exchange of intelligence data .
The Offeq 3 has a monochromatic resolution of about 1.5m (5ft). The Offeq 4 satellite now under construction in Israel will carry an advanced optical payload that will produce a resolution of less than 1m.
Source: Flight International