[Satellite Today 12-19-08] Telespazio won a from the Turkish Ministry of Defense for the Gokturk satellite system, the company announced Dec. 19.
    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. Telespazio also wil provide all satellite launch and test services.
    The Italian satellite operator will serve as prime contractor for the project, valued at 250 million euros ($357.5 million), with support from Thales Alenia Space. As part of the project, Telespazio said it will create a joint venture with a local partner to develop and market application services.