Space42 and Viasat, cofounders of the Equatys initiative, have announced progress on their shared infrastructure platform ahead of the Mobile World Congress. Equatys aims to provide 3GPP-based satellite connectivity for populations underserved by traditional terrestrial networks. Since its launch in September 2025, the program has advanced through venture formation, engineering development, and initial commercial discussions with mobile network operators.
Mark Dankberg, CEO and Chairman of Viasat, stated: “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 added: “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.”
The system will initially use globally harmonized L- and S-band MSS spectrum but is technically capable of operating across more than 100 MHz of allocated MSS spectrum worldwide. By adhering to 3GPP standards for integration between terrestrial and satellite networks, users will be able to maintain service continuity when moving out of terrestrial coverage areas.
Operating under a Tower Co. model means Equatys aims for low-cost satellite capacity while preserving each partner’s rights over spectrum usage and national interests. The structure also allows for future participation by additional cofounders or partners as demand increases.
Deployment plans include up to 2,800 satellites across 60 orbital planes at three altitude layers by Viasat and Space42. This architecture supports scaling without fundamental redesigns as user demand grows.
On the commercial side, Space42 has announced partnerships exploring device-to-device (D2D) connectivity via Equatys with e& UAE—the telecom division of e&—and PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia (Telkomsat), Indonesia’s national satellite operator.
The venture remains subject to definitive agreements and regulatory approvals before formal establishment.
At Mobile World Congress (MWC), Mark Dankberg from Viasat and Karim Sabbagh from Space42 will host a Fireside Chat focusing on policies shaping space-enabled mobility’s future. They plan to discuss competition preservation strategies alongside opportunities arising from next-generation connectivity platforms.
Registration details for these sessions are available [here].
