Abu Dhabi-based AI and space tech giant, Space42, has announced a strategic partnership with Skylo Technologies, a global non-terrestrial network (NTN) service provider. The collaboration will leverage Space42’s Thuraya-4 geostationary satellite to deliver standards-based direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, aiming to eliminate mobile coverage gaps across its footprint.
Quick Facts
- Strategic partnership with Skylo Technologies
- Uses Thuraya-4 satellite for D2D service
- Technology integration is complete and ready
A Unified Network: From Space to Your Pocket
The partnership’s goal is to create a single, unified system where satellite and terrestrial networks work together. For mobile carriers, this means extending their existing network architecture into remote, rural, and maritime regions without needing an overlay system or experimental add-ons.
Crucially, the service works with standard devices. The companies have already completed a bi-directional, real-time voice call over the Thuraya-4 satellite using an unmodified SIM card, demonstrating the system’s readiness for commercial use. This preserves the existing operator-customer relationship while massively expanding coverage.
Ready for Rollout
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, positioned the move as a key part of the company’s global NTN strategy.
“This partnership advances Space42’s strategy to become a global NTN leader, extending Thuraya-4’s reach through an interoperable connectivity layer that enables satellite and terrestrial networks to function as one unified system,” Al Hashemi stated. “The impact is immediately meaningful for the people and communities who depend on reliable connectivity.”
The technology integration between Skylo’s 3GPP-compliant platform and the Thuraya-4 satellite is complete, confirming the service is ready for live deployment.
Parthsarathi Trivedi, Co-Founder and CEO at Skylo, added, “The integration work is complete, and the service is ready to go live. Space42’s decision to select Skylo’s standards-based architecture for Thuraya-4 validates what we have built: a carrier-grade connectivity layer where satellites function as a natural extension of mobile networks, not a parallel system.”
Navigating Approvals for Global Reach
Commercial deployment will begin across Thuraya-4’s coverage area, which will expand Skylo’s NTN presence to over 37 countries. The companies are currently focused on securing the necessary regulatory approvals and finalising agreements with mobile operators in target markets. The service is expected to roll out on a market-by-market basis as these clearances are obtained.
About Space42
Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities. Formed in 2024 by the merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42’s global reach allows it to address the evolving needs of customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Major shareholders include G42, Mubadala, and IHC.
About Skylo Technologies
Skylo Technologies is a global non-terrestrial network service provider. Skylo enables mobile networks to extend seamlessly beyond terrestrial coverage by orchestrating connectivity between satellites, mobile operators, and device makers using 3GPP standards.
Source: Zawya
