Key Takeaways
- Space 42 and Viasat have signed a binding agreement to form Equatis, a joint venture focused on mobile satellite communications.
- The partnership aims to enhance mobile network coverage, particularly in urban areas with limited terrestrial service.
- Equatis will leverage relationships with over 400 mobile operators and provide a scalable platform for voice, text, and data services.
Joint Venture in Mobile Satellite Communication
Space 42, an Emirati space technology company listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Market, announced a partnership with Viasat, a NASDAQ-listed global satellite communications firm, to establish Equatis during World Space Business Week in Paris. This joint venture will create a platform specializing in both space and terrestrial infrastructure, aimed at enhancing mobile network coverage, particularly in regions not currently served by traditional networks, including densely populated urban areas.
Upon completing Equatis, Space 42 and Viasat plan to contribute up to $1 billion in initial capital. This funding will expedite the development of a new satellite constellation, alongside an agreement to boost co-financing efforts.
Global demand for satellite-enabled communication services is surging, fueled by advancements acknowledged in non-terrestrial communication network standards. These developments allow conventional smartphones and connected devices to utilize satellite technology, paving the way for significant market growth in direct communication between devices and advanced mobile services over the coming decades.
By combining resources, Space 42 and Viasat aim to enhance reach, thanks to their extensive relationships with over 400 mobile network operators worldwide. This coalition is positioned to tap into a coordinated spectrum of over 100 MHz, facilitating the delivery of direct communication services using mobile satellite technology—a unique advantage that significantly supports anticipated market growth.
Equatis is designed to enable direct communication between satellites, smartphones, IoT devices, and various terminals, allowing mobile operators to offer voice, text messaging, and data services in areas lacking cellular coverage. This joint venture builds on prior collaborations between Space 42 and Viasat, focusing on satellite design and seamless integration with existing terrestrial networks.
Launched in March 2025, the groundwork for Equatis involved funded studies focusing on shared infrastructure for non-terrestrial communications. The venture adopts the Telecom Towers model, promoting efficient infrastructure sharing among mobile operators.
Equatis boasts broad capabilities, with Space 42 holding coordinated rights to broadband spectrum across 160 markets. In addition to strategic partnerships, these capabilities are expected to expand the platform’s commercial scope.
Viasat is anticipated to be appointed as the primary technology contractor and also holds critical rights for mobile satellite communication spectrum across Europe. The establishment of Equatis is contingent on fulfilling standard completion conditions, including obtaining regulatory approvals. Further developments are expected as the companies advance toward these objectives.
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