Türksat, a public organization in the field of satellite services in Türkiye, is preparing to position a new position in the communication sector. Known for its satellite broadcasting and cable TV services, the institution now aims to provide mobile communication services. It is stated that the legal framework of the steps taken in this direction is studied. Developments, journalist Olcay Aydilek’in came to the agenda with the backstage information.
According to Aydilek’s claim, the preparation of a draft law that will enable Türksat’s restructuring is about to be completed. This regulation involves distinguishing the company’s current services. With the separation of cable TV and broadcasting activities, Türksat is aimed at a clearer communication focus. This structure can pave the way for the institution to take directly in the GSM market.
There are currently three major mobile operators in Türkiye: Turkcell, Vodafone and Türk Telekom. The addition of Türksat as the fourth player to this structure may reshape the competitive environment. However, the technical, legal and economic aspects of this process are not yet clearly shared with the public. What kind of effects such an initiative will have in terms of market balance.
Türkiye’s Asset Fund’s multiple ownership can affect the balance in the sector
Türksat’s capital structure makes the process even more interesting. The entire institution is within the Turkish Asset Fund (TVF). TVF also has a share in the two largest mobile operators in Türkiye. With 26.2 percent of Turkcell, 61.68 percent of Türk Telekom is directly under TVF. This can make the relationship between the new GSM structure with existing operators more complex.
The GSM sector is not limited to getting licenses; Infrastructure, frequency allocation and user network also includes processes such as. Türksat’s strategy in this field is a matter of curiosity. In the first stage, it seems likely to take steps to provide coverage in rural areas. Such an application can be functional in terms of both social benefit and political support.
On the other hand, Türksat’s experience in technical infrastructure is at a considerable level. The knowledge obtained from satellite and cable services can also be used in the field of mobile communication. However, titles such as field operations, customer relations and device supply processes required by mobile networks require different expertise. Therefore, it may be raised that the institution supports some processes through external use.
In terms of service delivery, it remains unclear which model of Türksat will adopt. The titles such as price policy, package options and customer service infrastructure are still not explained. Nevertheless, it may be inevitable that the search for differentiation in order to compete with the three large operators existing. This differentiation can be achieved especially with the emphasis on public service.
When the legal infrastructure works are concluded, Türksat is expected to apply for mobile operator officially. Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) will play the main regulatory role in this process. Considering the multiple ownership of TVF, it has already created controversy how the BTK will take an attitude within the framework of competition law. This development is closely monitored on both the public and the private sector.
The process of transforming a more comprehensive actor in the communication services of Türksat may not be limited only to the mobile infrastructure move. Integration can also be targeted in areas such as broadband internet, IoT solutions and digital services. This kind of transformation allows Türksat to expand the service spectrum and create synergy among the communication companies under the roof of TVFF. In this context, developments will make the direction of the communication strategy in public control more pronounced.