Space42 and Viasat to Share Progress on Equatys at Mobile World Congress
MWN-AI** Summary
At the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Space42 and Viasat showcased the progress towards their joint initiative, Equatys, aimed at transforming global connectivity through direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services. Established in September 2025, Equatys aims to provide a neutral, multi-participant infrastructure designed to connect billions underserved by terrestrial networks.
Both Space42, an AI-powered SpaceTech company from the UAE, and Viasat, a leader in satellite communications, bring over 60 years of experience to this venture. The Equatys platform aligns with 3GPP standards, facilitating the integration of terrestrial and satellite networks, which enhances service continuity when terrestrial connections fail. This platform is particularly focused on creating a robust ecosystem that respects sovereign autonomy while providing significant cost efficiency in satellite capacity.
In discussions led by Viasat’s Mark Dankberg and Space42's Karim Sabbagh, the firms emphasized Equatys' dual goals: modernizing legacy Mobile Satellite Services and extending connectivity to underserved markets. They assert that the model fosters competition, lowers entry barriers, and expands service offerings by utilizing up to 2,800 satellites across various orbital planes.
Recently, Space42 has engaged in partnerships with notable telecom operators like e& UAE and PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia to explore the potential of Equatys-enabled D2D services. However, the venture's execution remains contingent on agreements and regulatory approvals.
This collaboration represents a significant step towards revolutionizing how global connectivity is delivered, embodying the vision of making satellite-based services more accessible and beneficial for all stakeholders involved. Further updates on Equatys are expected as the project moves closer to formal establishment.
MWN-AI** Analysis
As Space42 and Viasat prepare to showcase their collaborative venture, Equatys, at the Mobile World Congress, investors should take note of the implications for the satellite communications and SpaceTech sectors. The strategic focus on Direct-to-Device (D2D) infrastructure positions Equatys to disrupt traditional mobile connectivity, particularly in underserved regions. By leveraging their combined 60 years of expertise, both companies aim to create a neutral, independent platform that aligns with 3GPP standards, making it attractive for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs).
The co-hosted program highlights several opportunities. Viasat's acquisition of Inmarsat, which combined formidable resources, paired with Space42’s focus on AI-driven capabilities, enhances their competitive advantage. As they move toward phased deployment, monitoring their partnerships with telecom giants like e& UAE and PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia will be essential; successful engagements could signal increased traction in the marketplace.
From an investment perspective, Space42 (ADX: SPACE42) presents a compelling opportunity, leveraging both the benefits of its AI capabilities and the burgeoning demand for satellite communications driven by consumer and governmental needs. Meanwhile, Viasat's established market presence and recent expansion can yield strong synergies, enhancing operational efficiency.
Investors should, however, remain cautious. The venture's success is contingent on regulatory approvals and market acceptance, with risks around competition and technology implementation. The firms’ commitment to delivering a seamless user experience and operator choice may provide a competitive edge, yet the evolving landscape requires attentive monitoring of execution outcomes post-MWC.
In summary, both Space42 and Viasat are positioned favorably in the burgeoning space-enabled mobility sector. Analysts should keep a close watch on Equatys' developments for signals of market validation and success, while considering the associated risks inherent in such cutting-edge ventures.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
BARCELONA, Spain, March 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Space42, the UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, and Viasat, Inc., a global leader in satellite communications, will discuss continued progress toward their planned direct-to-device (D2D) infrastructure and offer an early look at the priorities for Equatys, the companies' forthcoming joint entity, during a co-hosted program at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona this week. The program marks the first public showcase of Equatys' technical direction and commercial vision, reflecting its ambition to accelerate global D2D adoption. This event brings together policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders to explore how competition, resilience, and sovereignty can be advanced simultaneously, along with enabling new business cases, turning space-enabled mobility into a shared success story for all.
Space42 and Viasat are the cofounders of Equatys, bringing together over 60 years of combined mobile satellite services experience. Equatys is designed as an independent, neutral, multi-participant shared infrastructure platform to extend 3GPP-based connectivity to the billions underserved by terrestrial networks. Since announcing Equatys in September 2025, the cofounders have advanced the program across initiation of venture formation, engineering development, and initial commercial engagement with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), marking concrete progress toward phased deployment.
Mark Dankberg, CEO and Chairman of Viasat, said: "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. This scalable global model ensures the full ecosystem of participants can benefit from lower barriers to entry, expanded supplier diversity and economies of scale, and stronger competitive dynamics across the value chain. We are committed to delivering a frictionless end-user experience with seamless handover enabling choice for the carriers. "
Karim Michel Sabbagh, Managing Director of Space42, said: "Equatys reflects disciplined execution against a clear objective: combining the scale of terrestrial networks with the efficiency of space. The collaboration is rooted in Space42's strategy to become a global leader in Non-Terrestrial Networks, and to date has achieved significant engineering milestones, with subscription agreements underway, mobile network operators engaged, and international filings submitted. Equatys demonstrates how space-enabled mobility can modernize legacy Mobile Satellite Services, augment terrestrial networks in lacking areas, and unlock new services across markets."
Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, commented: "Equatys is being built on the principle that shared infrastructure benefits all. The spectrum access model allows nations to retain their sovereign autonomy and licensee control, while advancing satellite capacity with significant cost savings. Combined with a standards-based architecture designed to allow seamless, automatic transition between terrestrial and satellite networks, we intend to scale space-enabled connectivity to those beyond traditional network reach.
Constellation Architecture and Spectrum Strategy
The system is expected to operate initially in globally harmonized L- and S-band MSS spectrum, with technical capability to operate across over 100 MHz of globally allocated and coordinated MSS spectrum. By aligning with 3GPP standards, the platform will integrate terrestrial and satellite networks, enabling seamless transition when terrestrial service becomes unavailable. This will be done while preserving operators’ choice within the -Terrestrial Network ecosystem.
Operating on a Tower Co. model, Equatys intends to deliver the lowest unit cost of satellite capacity while preserving each partner's spectrum rights and sovereign interests. The model is designed to welcome additional cofounders, satellite operators, and spectrum holders as the ecosystem takes shape. Efficient payload and ground technologies are intended to minimize mass-to-orbit requirements while supporting long-term scalability and capital efficiency.
Equatys' shared multi-tenant infrastructure will be supported by up to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes and three altitude layers, deployed by Viasat and Space42. The architecture is intended to densify without fundamental redesign, enabling ecosystem growth at a market-responsive pace and catering to billions of potential users as demand scales.
Commercial Momentum
Space42 has announced partnerships to explore Equatys-enabled D2D connectivity with e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of global technology group e&, and with PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat), Indonesia's national satellite operator.
These engagements reflect operator interest in extending coverage through integrated satellite-terrestrial architectures, aligned with national regulatory frameworks and 3GPP standards.
The venture remains subject to definitive agreements, regulatory approvals, and customary closing conditions. The companies intend to provide further updates as Equatys progresses toward formal establishment.
Mobile World Congress
As part of the co-hosted MWC program, Viasat CEO and Chairman Mark Dankberg and Space42 Managing Director Karim Sabbagh will conduct a Fireside Chat to discuss the opportunities and policies shaping the future of space-enabled mobility. The program will explore how the next generation of space-enabled connectivity can be designed to preserve competition, unlock new service capabilities, and align with sovereign priorities, while strengthening resilience and expanding choice.
Attendees can register for the Fireside Chat and other co-hosted panels [here].
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.
For more information, visit: www.space42.ai; follow us on X: @space42ai
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. Learn more at www.viasat.com, the Viasat News Room or follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, Bluesky, Threads, and YouTube.
Copyright © 2026 Viasat, Inc. All rights reserved. Viasat, the Viasat logo and the Viasat Signal are registered trademarks in the U.S. and in other countries of Viasat, Inc. All other product or company names mentioned are used for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.
Legal Notice and Cautionary Statement regarding forward-looking information
This announcement may contain forward-looking statements based on current expectations and assumptions about future events. These statements, identified by terms such as "expect," "will," or similar, are subject to risks and uncertainties and may prove inaccurate. They reflect information available as of the date hereof, and the companies disclaim any obligation to update them. No assurance is given that any forward-looking statement will occur, and undue reliance should not be placed on them. This announcement does not constitute a financial promotion or an offer to buy or sell securities in any jurisdiction.
Contact:
Scott Goryl
scott.goryl@viasat.com
FAQ**
How does the collaboration between Space42 and ViaSat Inc. (VSAT) position the two companies in the competitive landscape of satellite communications and D2D infrastructure development?
What specific advantages does ViaSat Inc. (VSAT) believe the Equatys platform will bring to underserved markets compared to existing satellite communication solutions?
In what ways is ViaSat Inc. (VSAT) leveraging its recent acquisition of Inmarsat to enhance its capabilities in the context of D2D service offerings under the Equatys initiative?
What potential challenges does ViaSat Inc. (VSAT) foresee in aligning with 3GPP standards for Equatys, and how might these affect broader adoption of satellite connectivity solutions?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about ViaSat Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT).
NASDAQ: VSAT
VSAT Trading
-0.43% G/L:
$44.37 Last:
302,531 Volume:
$43.59 Open:
