Space42, the UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, and Viasat, Inc., a global leader in satellite and secure communications, have announced the formation of Equatys, a groundbreaking joint venture that will provide Direct-to-Device (D2D) services on a global scale.
The Space42 and Viasat Equatys venture is positioned to revolutionize mobile satellite services by leveraging the world’s largest coordinated spectrum block, enabling universal connectivity across regions where terrestrial networks remain unavailable.
Transforming Mobile Satellite Services into a 5G Environment
Equatys aims to merge satellite and terrestrial networks through a 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) compliant platform, accessible via standard smartphones and IoT devices. With coverage extending across more than 160 markets and harmonized MSS spectrum exceeding 100 MHz, the venture promises to serve billions of users worldwide.
Karim Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42, and Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services, Space42, said:
“Equatys will achieve what the satellite industry has pursued for decades: combining the scale of terrestrial networks with the efficiency of space. Backed by global spectrum, proven technology, and strong partners, Equatys will power societies and transform economies worldwide.”
Viasat Chairman and CEO Mark Dankberg added:
“The Equatys venture will deliver cost-efficient capacity through a shared multi-orbit network with open architecture, evolving existing MSS services and ensuring safety across air, land, and sea.”
Space Tower Model: A First-of-its-Kind Infrastructure Approach
At its core, the Space42 and Viasat Equatys venture introduces an industry-first “space tower” model, providing neutral, shared space and ground infrastructure. This lean, multi-tenant model is designed to:
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Reduce redundant investments.
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Deliver cost-effective capacity.
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Ensure equitable opportunities for governments, operators, and local space industries.
By enabling shared use of spectrum blocks that are currently split across separate systems, Equatys creates a win-win framework rather than a winner-takes-all market, allowing both private and public stakeholders to benefit from economies of scale.
Investment and Financial Sustainability
The investment framework is designed to offer infrastructure-grade returns to financial partners while maintaining cost efficiency for licensed operators. Phased equity offerings will open opportunities for additional investors as the venture scales.
Strategic Governance and Space Sustainability
Equatys is committed to:
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Providing nations with secure, standards-based infrastructure.
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Supporting sovereign deployment options.
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Minimizing orbital footprint and ensuring long-term space sustainability.
The announcement builds upon the Memorandum of Understanding signed between Space42 and Viasat in March 2025, marking a decisive step from exploratory studies to the launch of a jointly-owned infrastructure company.
Conclusion
The Space42 and Viasat Equatys venture represents a milestone in the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks. By unlocking the world’s largest coordinated spectrum block, Equatys is set to drive the next era of Direct-to-Device (D2D) services—delivering global 5G-ready connectivity, advancing digital inclusion, and reshaping the future of mobile satellite services.
