Abu Dhabi-based AI and SpaceTech company Space42 and global satellite communications leader Viasat have provided the first public look at the technical roadmap and commercial vision for their joint entity, Equatys. Showcased at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, the venture aims to build a global direct-to-device (D2D) infrastructure to extend mobile connectivity to billions of users outside the reach of terrestrial networks.
Quick Facts
- Joint Entity: Space42 and Viasat are co-founding Equatys.
- Mission: Build a shared D2D satellite infrastructure platform.
- Scale: The network will be supported by 2,800 satellites.
Building a ‘Tower Co.’ for Space
Equatys is being designed as an independent, neutral platform for mobile satellite services, bringing together over 60 years of combined experience from its co-founders. The ambition is to create a shared infrastructure that lowers entry barriers and expands supplier diversity for mobile network operators (MNOs) globally.
Mark Dankberg, CEO and Chairman of Viasat, described the vision: “Space-enabled mobility is a foundational layer for global, seamless connectivity. With Equatys, we are building a platform that empowers nations, operators, and innovators to extend secure, affordable, 3GPP-aligned satellite connectivity to billions.”
The project combines the large-scale capabilities of terrestrial mobile networks with the coverage efficiency of space. “Equatys reflects disciplined execution against a clear objective: combining the scale of terrestrial networks with the efficiency of space,” said Karim Michel Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42. He added that the collaboration has already hit significant engineering milestones, with MNOs engaged and international filings submitted.
Sovereignty and Spectrum
Operating on a model similar to a telecommunications “Tower Co.,” Equatys plans to deliver satellite capacity at a low unit cost while allowing partners to maintain their spectrum rights and national interests.
“Equatys is being built on the principle that shared infrastructure benefits all,” commented Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42. “The spectrum access model allows nations to retain their sovereign autonomy and licensee control, while advancing satellite capacity with significant cost savings.”
The system will initially operate in the globally harmonized L- and S-band MSS spectrum. By aligning with 3GPP standards, the platform will enable mobile devices to automatically transition between terrestrial and satellite networks when ground service is unavailable. The full constellation architecture will be supported by up to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes, designed to scale as market demand grows.
Early Commercial Momentum
Space42 has already announced partnerships to explore D2D connectivity enabled by Equatys. Key regional collaborations include an agreement with e& UAE, the telecom arm of the global technology group e&, and another with PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat), Indonesia’s national satellite operator. These early engagements signal strong interest from mobile operators in integrating satellite capabilities to extend their coverage.
The formal establishment of the venture remains subject to definitive agreements and regulatory approvals.
About Space42
Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) is a UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company that integrates satellite communications, geospatial analytics and artificial intelligence capabilities to enlighten the Earth from space. Formed in 2024 by the successful merger of Bayanat and Yahsat, Space42’s global reach allows it to address the rapidly evolving needs of its customers in governments, enterprises, and communities. Space42 comprises two business units: Space Services and Smart Solutions. Space Services focuses on upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobility satellite services. Smart Solutions integrates geospatial data acquisition and processing with AI to inform decision-making, enhance situational awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Major shareholders include G42, Mubadala, and IHC.
About Viasat
Viasat is a global communications company that believes everyone and everything in the world can be connected. With offices in 24 countries around the world, our mission shapes how consumers, businesses, governments and militaries around the world communicate and connect. Viasat is developing the ultimate global communications network to power high-quality, reliable, secure, affordable, fast connections to positively impact people’s lives anywhere they are, on the ground, in the air or at sea, while building a sustainable future in space. In May 2023, Viasat completed its acquisition of Inmarsat, combining the teams, technologies and resources of the two companies to create a new global communications partner.
Source: Zawya
