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Satellite companies Viasat and Space42 team up to establish a new collaboration, named D2D Joint Venture.

Equatys is integrating ground-based networks with satellite communication systems for worldwide, direct-to-device connectivity.

Satellite companies Viasat and Space42 collaborate in new D2D joint endeavor
Satellite companies Viasat and Space42 collaborate in new D2D joint endeavor

Satellite companies Viasat and Space42 team up to establish a new collaboration, named D2D Joint Venture.

Equatys: A Joint Venture Aiming to Revolutionize Global Connectivity

Equatys, a new joint venture established by Viasat and UAE-based Space42, is set to offer a cost-effective solution for network operators by combining terrestrial and satellite networks. The goal is to provide global connectivity at a lower cost, a mission that remains unchanged since the inception of the joint venture.

The Equatys 5G open architecture platform, scheduled for completion by 2028, aims to help commercial operators maximize their profits through shared usage of the low-cost space and ground infrastructure. This approach takes advantage of economies of scale, as opposed to the increasingly competitive and expensive spectrum licenses.

The joint venture was born following an MOU signed by Viasat and Space42 in March, with the goal of securing a significant portion of the growing direct-to-device (D2D) market. Equatys invites more partners to join in the network's development and financing, and governments worldwide will have the opportunity to own and operate parts of the infrastructure.

The strategy of Equatys is to find common ground between terrestrial and satellite networks, with the intention of building out a 100+ MHz network across 160 markets. The network will operate as a 'space tower,' offering network operators a single global network to utilize spectrum blocks that would otherwise be held by separate satellite networks.

Equatys also plans to leverage local industries for the development of the space and ground technology involved in the new network. Samsung and SK Telecom have announced plans to equip a similar global 100+ MHz network by 2028, involving partnerships with government agencies, telecom operators, and industry stakeholders to jointly develop and finance this advanced network infrastructure.

However, Equatys has not yet revealed any new details about its strategy to take advantage of economies of scale or avoid competitive and expensive spectrum licenses. The network expansion plans do not include specific details about the number of markets or MHz capacity.

In summary, Equatys is a promising joint venture that aims to revolutionize global connectivity by offering a cost-effective solution for network operators. By combining terrestrial and satellite networks, Equatys hopes to provide a single global network that operators can utilize, while also taking advantage of economies of scale and leveraging local industries for technology development.

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