Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan presented Armenia’s plans for developing its space capabilities and its upcoming strategic objectives at the International Space Summit in Paris.
He said Armenia intends to launch at least three satellites — two for Earth observation and one for telecommunications.
“Armenia has entered a new phase in developing its national space capabilities. In 2022, Armenia launched its first satellite, ARMSAT-1, which was developed using European technologies and placed into orbit by SpaceX. Just one year later, we reached another milestone with HAYASAT-1, the first Armenian satellite fully assembled and tested by Armenian specialists.
“Armenia’s 2026-2031 government program defines the development of national space capabilities as a separate strategic objective. Armenia intends to operate at least three satellites — two for Earth observation and one for telecommunications — while simultaneously developing its own ground infrastructure and domestic capabilities for satellite control, data reception, processing and analysis. We also plan to establish a distributed network of ground stations capable of serving not only Armenia’s national needs but also supporting international space missions and the growing demand for satellite data and services.
“Looking ahead, Armenia aims to participate more actively in international space programs, enabling Armenian engineers and companies to contribute to the design, engineering and production of complex systems and equipment intended for space research,” the prime minister said.
He noted that Armenia’s 2026-2030 strategic program for the development of science identifies space and aerospace technologies as a strategic priority, among other areas. This includes Earth observation, satellite communications, space situational awareness, navigation technologies and other emerging fields.
“Armenia also recognizes the growing convergence between space and artificial intelligence. In this context, we are developing a broader national concept for an ‘AI Factories Park,’ aimed at creating an ecosystem of advanced computing and artificial intelligence capabilities to support research, innovation and technological development across various sectors. In this regard, I am pleased to announce that the Firebird AI factory, developed in cooperation with NVIDIA, recently opened in Armenia.
“The Academic City, which Armenia is currently developing as a new academic and research ecosystem, will be another important component of this transformation. By bringing together universities, research institutions, students, researchers, international partners and the private sector, we intend to create stronger links between education, science and industry and provide an environment for advanced research and technological development.
“We believe that the expansion of the global space economy should be accompanied by broader access to its benefits. Countries with emerging space capabilities should have the opportunity to participate not only as users of technologies and data, but increasingly as contributors to research, innovation and technological development.
“In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm Armenia’s commitment to investing in science and human capital, as well as strengthening international partnerships so that space science, technology and data contribute to sustainable development and the creation of a better future for humanity,” Pashinyan said.
