Space42 and Viasat Update Progress on Equatys D2D Satellite Venture
Space42 and Viasat provided an update on Equatys, their planned joint venture aimed at building a global shared infrastructure platform for direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity.
Speaking at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona last week, the companies outlined early progress on system architecture, engineering development and commercial engagement with mobile operators. The venture, first announced in September 2025, is designed to extend 3GPP-based connectivity to areas beyond the reach of terrestrial networks by combining satellite capacity with existing mobile infrastructure.
Equatys is being positioned as a neutral, multi-participant platform that mobile operators can access to deliver satellite-enabled services while retaining control of their spectrum and customer relationships. The approach is intended to lower barriers to entry for operators by providing shared satellite infrastructure rather than requiring each provider to build its own constellation.
Technically, the system will operate initially in globally harmonised L- and S-band mobile satellite service spectrum and integrate with terrestrial mobile networks using 3GPP standards, enabling seamless switching between ground and satellite coverage. The companies say this architecture will support applications such as direct-to-device connectivity and broader advanced mobile satellite services.
The planned constellation could eventually include up to 2,800 satellites across multiple orbital layers, designed to scale as demand grows while maintaining capital efficiency through shared infrastructure.
Early commercial engagement is already underway, with Space42 announcing exploratory partnerships with operators including e& in the UAE and Telkomsat in Indonesia. The companies say Equatys aims to modernise traditional mobile satellite services and support a broader ecosystem of operators, governments and service providers seeking to expand coverage through integrated satellite-terrestrial networks.
Equatys remains subject to final agreements and regulatory approvals, with further updates expected as Equatys moves toward formal launch.