Space42 & Viasat Launch Equatys for Global 5G Direct-to-Device Services
▼ Summary
– Space42 and Viasat are establishing Equatys to enable Direct-to-Device services and evolve Mobile Satellite Services into 5G.
– Equatys will integrate satellite and terrestrial networks via a 3GPP-compliant platform accessible through standard smartphones and IoT devices.
– The venture will operate under a shared “space tower” model to reduce redundant investments and provide cost-efficient capacity to operators.
– Equatys is structured to attract strategic and financial investors with infrastructure-grade returns and phased equity offerings.
– Leaders state Equatys will combine terrestrial scale with space efficiency, unlocking opportunities in D2D and next-gen MSS markets.
A new joint venture between UAE artificial intelligence space technology firm Space42 and American satellite communications giant Viasat aims to revolutionize global connectivity. The partnership introduces Equatys, a collaborative entity focused on delivering Direct-to-Device (D2D) services and advancing Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) into a fully integrated 5G framework.
Equatys will merge satellite and terrestrial networks using a platform that complies with the 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Release standards. This system will be accessible through everyday smartphones and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. Leveraging more than 100 MHz of harmonized MSS spectrum across more than 160 global markets, the initiative seeks to provide dependable connectivity to billions of users and devices worldwide. Commercial services are expected to launch within the next three years.
The venture will operate using a shared “space tower” infrastructure model, similar to how terrestrial tower companies function. This approach minimizes redundant investments and offers cost-effective capacity to licensed operators. As a neutral platform, Equatys enables telecommunications providers, governments, and local space industries to utilize shared infrastructure while maintaining data sovereignty and promoting space sustainability.
This multi-orbit, open 5G architecture allows various independent operators to access spectrum blocks that were previously fragmented across different satellite systems. The result is a more inclusive, scalable, and efficient connectivity ecosystem.
Equatys is designed to attract both strategic and financial investors, offering the potential for infrastructure-level returns and equity growth. Equity offerings will be rolled out in phases, allowing broader participation as the network expands. The governance framework prioritizes security, standards-based infrastructure, and sovereign deployment options, all while adhering to global sustainability guidelines to reduce orbital debris.
Karim Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42, along with Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, emphasized that Equatys fulfills the long-standing industry goal of merging terrestrial scalability with space-based efficiency. They stated that universal connectivity is now within reach.
Viasat CEO Mark Dankberg highlighted that Equatys will enable a shared, standards-compliant multi-orbit network, creating substantial opportunities in D2D and next-generation MSS markets. The network is expected to support high-performance applications, including critical safety services across aviation, maritime, and terrestrial environments.
(Source: MEA Tech Watch)