Photo: Space42

Space42 and Viasat signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to explore ecosystem partnership options for developing a 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) initiative, Space42 announced on March 11. 

Space42 is a space and geospatial intelligence company based in the United Arab Emirates, formed last year through the merger of Yahsat and Bayanat. 

This partnership addresses the opportunities in direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications, narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), and mobile satellite services. Space42 cited projections that the satellite segment of the D2D market will reach $50 billion in 2032, in addition to traditional enterprise and government market segments’ growth potential.

The partnership’s first phase involves conducting technical and commercial studies to develop a shared, multi-orbit 5G NTN infrastructure using a standards-based open architecture. This infrastructure will support L-band, S-band, and terrestrial spectrum use, enabling global roaming among regional network operators. The companies are following guidelines developed by the Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA), leveraging licensed MSS satellite spectrum and open interoperable architectures based on 3GPP standards 

Ali Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services, a Space42 company, said: “By fostering an ecosystem built on shared innovation, interoperability, and open standards, we are unlocking new possibilities in D2D, IoT, and MSS. This partnership accelerates time to market, drives cost efficiency, and ensures seamless integration with existing and future networks.

Both companies are working with strategic partners on this type of initiative. Viasat is also exploring a potential LEO D2D network with the European Space Agency, to further accelerate the development and deployment of NTN D2D systems. Space42 leadership has also spoken about its D2D and the three-stage plan it aims to enact.