UAE-based Space42 and U.S. satellite giant Viasat have unveiled plans to form Equatys, a jointly held entity designed to revolutionize global connectivity by uniting satellite and terrestrial networks. The venture will enable Direct-to-Device (D2D) services and evolve existing and planned Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) into a fully integrated 5G network environment.
Built on a 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Release-compliant platform, Equatys aims to extend service to billions of standard smartphones and IoT devices worldwide. Backed by more than 100 MHz of harmonized MSS spectrum across 160+ markets, the company plans to commercially launch services within the next three years.
A Shared “Space Tower” Infrastructure Model
Equatys will operate as a neutral, shared multi-tenant infrastructure provider, reducing redundant investments and delivering cost-efficient capacity to operators. This “space tower” model creates a collaborative ecosystem where:
- Operators gain scalable, low-cost capacity without duplicating infrastructure.
- Governments can ensure data sovereignty by owning and managing national infrastructure.
- Local industries benefit from opportunities in space and ground technology development.
Aligned with the 3GPP open architecture framework, the network will integrate multi-orbit satellite capacity with terrestrial systems, ensuring seamless coverage and universal connectivity.
Leaders’ Perspective
Karim Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42, and Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, described Equatys as the long-awaited bridge between terrestrial and satellite networks, delivering the scale and efficiency needed for universal access.
Mark Dankberg, Chairman and CEO of Viasat, added: “Equatys will uniquely make possible a shared multi-orbit network of scale with standards-based open architecture, addressing the massive Direct-to-Device and next-generation MSS market opportunity.”
Transforming Global Connectivity
By leveraging high-performance satellite architectures and shared infrastructure, Equatys is positioned to deliver low-cost, high-efficiency connectivity across land, air, and sea. The initiative supports next-generation applications such as aviation safety, maritime communications, and IoT expansion, while reinforcing the promise of universal, affordable, and reliable global coverage.
