Barcelona, Spain, March 03, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

Space42 , the UAE’s leading AI -powered space technology company , and Viasat, Inc. , the world’s leading satellite communications operator, are participating in a joint program at the Mobile World Congress. The Mobile World Congress , taking place in Barcelona this week, will see the two companies discuss their ongoing progress in developing direct-to-machine ( D2D ) communications infrastructure. They will also provide an initial overview of the priorities of Equatys , the joint venture they are preparing to launch soon. This event presents an ideal opportunity to showcase the technical direction and business vision of Equatys , underscoring the companies' commitment to accelerating the global adoption of D2D services . The event brings together policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders to explore ways to enhance competition, increase resilience, and support sovereignty, while also enabling innovative business models and transforming space-enabled mobility into a shared and inspiring success story .

As the founding companies of the Equatys project, Space42 and Viasat bring over 60 years of combined experience in mobile satellite services. Equatys is designed as a neutral, independent infrastructure platform operating on a multi-tenant shared model, with the goal of expanding connectivity based on 3GPP standards and providing direct-to-machine (D2M) connectivity to billions of people in areas not covered by terrestrial networks . Since its announcement Establishing the joint Equatys entity in September 2025, the two companies embarked on developing the program through gradual phases, including initiating project formation, engineering development, and initial commercial engagement with mobile network operators (MNOs) . This step represents tangible progress towards the future phased rollout process .

In this context, Mark Dankberg , Chairman and CEO of Viasat, said : “ Space-enabled mobility is a cornerstone of seamless global connectivity. Through the Equatys project , we aim to build a platform that enables countries, operators, and innovators to scale up secure, affordable , 3GPP -compliant space connectivity services and make them available to billions of people. This scalable global model ensures that the entire ecosystem of participants benefits from reduced barriers to service delivery, increased supplier diversity, economies of scale, and enhanced competition across the value chain. We are committed to delivering a seamless and uninterrupted user experience, providing a smooth transition and enabling operators to choose the network or package that best suits their needs.”

For his part, Karim Michel Sabbagh , Managing Director of Space42 , said : “The Equatys project reflects a disciplined commitment to achieving a clear objective: bridging the gap between the reach of terrestrial networks and the efficiency of satellite communications. This partnership is based on Space42’s strategy to achieve global leadership in the field of non-terrestrial networks. The project has already achieved significant engineering milestones, including signing subscription agreements, engaging mobile network operators, and submitting applications internationally. The Equatys project demonstrates How can space-assisted mobility contribute to modernizing traditional mobile satellite services, supporting terrestrial network services in underserved areas, and opening up new horizons for service delivery in different markets ?

Ali Al Hashemi , CEO of Space42 's space services , said: "The Equatys project is based Based on the principle that shared infrastructure benefits everyone, the spectrum access model will allow countries to retain full authority over how the spectrum is used within their territories, control who is eligible for licensing, improve satellite capacity, and achieve significant cost savings. By using an advanced, standardized architecture based on global standards and enabling automated and seamless transition between terrestrial and satellite networks, we aim to extend space-based connectivity to all remote areas not reached by traditional networks .

Satellite network architecture design and frequency spectrum strategy

The system is expected to initially operate within the globally compatible L and S frequency bands, with the technical capability to support over 100 MHz of globally allocated Mobile Satellite Services ( MSS ) spectrum. Furthermore, by adhering to 3GPP ( Third Generation Partnership Project) standards , the platform will unify satellite and terrestrial networks, enabling a seamless transition to satellite networks in the event of terrestrial service outages . All of this must be done while preserving the freedom of choice of operators within the non-terrestrial network system.

The Equatys project is based on a Tower Co. ( Tower Co. ) model, enabling cost-effective capacity while safeguarding spectrum rights and the sovereign interests of the partners. The model is designed to accommodate an expanding pool of founders, satellite operators, and spectrum licensees as the ecosystem evolves. Efficient space payloads and ground-based technologies aim to reduce the mass requirements for reaching orbit, enabling faster satellite deployment, wider coverage, and maintaining the project's capital efficiency.

It is worth noting that the Equatys project's multi-tenant shared infrastructure model supports Up to 2,800 satellites, distributed across 60 orbital planes and three different altitudes, are deployed by Viasat and Space42 . This infrastructure was designed To expand the network and add more satellites or increase capacity without needing to completely redesign the underlying system. This architecture will allow the system to grow and expand at a pace that aligns with market demands and serve billions of potential users as demand increases .

Project commercial momentum

Space42 announced Regarding strategic partnerships to explore direct device-to-device ( D2D ) communication services supported by Equatys With both e& UAE , the main telecommunications arm of the global e& technology group, and PT Telkom Satelit Indonesia ( Telkomsat ) , the national satellite services operator in Indonesia.

These partnerships reflect the operators’ interest in expanding coverage through an innovative and integrated infrastructure that combines satellite and terrestrial networks, in full compliance with national regulatory frameworks and 3GPP standards .

The project remains subject to final agreements, regulatory approvals, and customary closing conditions. The two companies plan to continue sharing updates as Equatys progresses toward its formal establishment .

Mobile World Congress

As part of a program organized in conjunction with the Mobile World Congress ( MWC ), Mark Dankberg , Chairman and CEO of Viasat , and Karim Sabbagh , Managing Director of Space42 , will participate in a Fireside Chat to discuss the opportunities and policies shaping the future of space-enabled mobility. The program will explore how a new generation of space-based communications services can be designed to maintain competition, enable the launch of new services, respect sovereign priorities, and enhance flexibility while expanding user choice .

Attendees can register to participate in the dialogue session and other joint discussion panels via the link here .

Company overview Space42 :

Space42 , listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange ( ADX: SPACE42 ), is a leading space technology company based in the United Arab Emirates. It integrates satellite communications, geospatial data, and artificial intelligence capabilities for Earth observation from space. Established in 2024 following the successful merger of Bayanat and Yahsat , Space42's global presence allows it to meet the evolving needs of its clients across government, business, and community sectors. Space42 comprises two business units: Yahsat Space Services and Bayanat Smart Solutions . Yahsat Space Services focuses on providing reliable and advanced fixed and mobile satellite communications solutions, including upstream satellite operations for both fixed and mobile satellites. Bayanat Smart Solutions integrates geospatial data collection and processing, utilizing the GIQ platform , with artificial intelligence to provide decision-makers with data, enhance geospatial awareness, and improve operational efficiency. Space42 's major shareholders include [list of major shareholders].   Both G42 , Mubadala and IHC .

For more information, please visit the following website: www.space42.ai Or follow us on the "X" website via the hashtag @space42ai  

Company overview   Viasat :

Viasat is a global communications company that believes in connecting all people and things in the world. With offices in 24 countries, its vision and mission shape the way people, businesses, governments, and militaries communicate globally. Viasat is developing an advanced global communications network that aims to deliver high-quality, reliable, and secure communications at affordable prices and speeds, positively impacting people's lives everywhere—on land, in the air, and at sea—with a focus on building a sustainable future in space. In May 2023, Viasat completed its acquisition of Inmarsat , combining the two companies' teams, technologies, and resources to form a new global communications partner. For more information, please visit www.viasat.com , the Viasat Newsroom page , 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 sign are registered trademarks of Viasat, Inc. in the United States and other countries. 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 statements related to forward-looking information:

This announcement contains forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and estimates about future events. These statements are identified by the use of terms such as "expect," "will," or similar expressions, and are subject to risks and uncertainties and may not be accurate. These statements reflect information available as of the date of this announcement, and the company disclaims any obligation to update them. There is no guarantee that these forward-looking statements will materialize, and investors should not place undue reliance on them. This announcement does not constitute a financial offer or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities in any jurisdiction .

Contact information: media@space42.ai