UAE’s Space42 and US-Based Viasat Commit Up to $1 Billion to Launch Equatys Satellite Connectivity Platform

Viasat and Space42 agreed to invest up to $1B in Equatys, a D2D JV requiring regulatory approval. Each will initially commit $400M, with an additional $200M from Space42 for future funding. The JV aims to deploy 2,800 satellites for connectivity in areas beyond terrestrial networks, with services expected around 2029. Viasat will serve as the prime technology contractor.

Viasat and Space42 have formally established Equatys, a joint venture to build a mega-constellation of up to 2,800 low Earth orbiting satellites. The companies will invest up to $1 billion in combined equity. Equatys will share satellite and ground infrastructure while retaining spectrum rights, aiming to serve billions of unmodified devices. The venture is backed by agreements with over 400 mobile operators and access to 100 MHz of globally coordinated MSS spectrum.

Space42 (ADX-listed) and Viasat are investing $1 bn in their joint venture, Equatys, to develop a global direct-to-device (D2D) mobile service. Each will contribute $400 mn, with Space42 adding $200 mn later. The venture aims to extend mobile coverage to underserved areas using a shared infrastructure model, with Viasat as the prime tech contractor. The initial satellite constellation could scale to 2.8k satellites. The commercial rollout is targeted within three years.

Viasat (VSAT) and Space42 (SPACE42) have committed up to $1 billion to launch Equatys, a joint venture for a shared satellite and ground infrastructure platform. The venture aims to connect smartphones directly to space-based networks, with each partner contributing $400 million initially. Equatys will operate on 3GPP NTN standards, allowing standard devices to access satellite connectivity. VSAT shares fell 5% in premarket trading despite a strong year-to-date performance.

Space42 and Viasat have agreed to form Equatys, a satellite platform for direct-to-device connectivity, committing up to $1 billion. Each will initially invest $400 million, with Space42 adding $200 million later. Equatys will enable mobile operators to share satellite infrastructure, aiming to expand connectivity globally. The venture is subject to regulatory approvals and closing conditions.

Viasat and UAE's Space42 plan to launch Equatys, a direct-to-device satellite platform, investing up to $1 billion. Each will initially contribute $400 million, with Space42 adding $200 million later.