Space42 Announces Massive Satellite Expansion Plans

UAE-based company partners with Viasat and Iceye for 2,800-satellite network and radar imaging services by 2028-29

Mar. 30, 2026 at 2:19pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A bold, abstract painting in the style of Hilma af Klint, depicting a complex network of intersecting geometric shapes and spirals in earthy tones, representing the scale and structure of Space42's planned satellite constellations.Space42's ambitious plans for a global satellite network and radar imaging services aim to position the UAE as a leader in the new space economy.Washington Today

Space42, a UAE-based satellite telecom and geospatial services provider, is planning a major expansion of its satellite operations. The company is looking to launch a joint venture with Viasat called Equatys for a 2,800-satellite direct-to-device (D2D) constellation, as well as a radar imaging constellation called Foresight that will utilize technology from Finland's Iceye Oy. The company expects to make announcements on a strategic investor for Equatys before this summer and aims to have both services operational by 2028-29.

Why it matters

This massive satellite network expansion by Space42 represents a significant investment in next-generation satellite technology and services. The Equatys D2D constellation could provide global connectivity, while the Foresight radar imaging constellation could offer advanced geospatial data and analytics. These initiatives highlight the growing demand for innovative satellite-based solutions across telecommunications and Earth observation.

The details

The Equatys D2D joint venture with Viasat will involve launching a constellation of 2,800 satellites to provide direct-to-device connectivity globally. Meanwhile, the Foresight radar imaging constellation will utilize technology from Finnish company Iceye Oy to offer advanced radar imaging capabilities. Space42 CEO Karim Michel Sabbagh stated that the company is planning a 'massive scale-up' of these satellite operations, with announcements on a strategic investor for Equatys expected before this summer.

  • Space42 is planning to have both the Equatys D2D constellation and the Foresight radar imaging services operational by 2028-29.

The players

Space42

A UAE-based satellite telecom and geospatial services provider that is planning major expansions of its satellite operations.

Viasat Inc.

A global communications company that is partnering with Space42 on the Equatys D2D satellite constellation.

Iceye Oy

A Finnish company that is providing the radar imaging technology for Space42's Foresight satellite constellation.

Karim Michel Sabbagh

The Chief Executive Officer of Space42 who discussed the company's expansion plans in a recent interview.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We are planning a massive scale-up of our satellite operations, with announcements on a strategic investor for Equatys expected before this summer.”

— Karim Michel Sabbagh, Chief Executive Officer, Space42

What’s next

Space42 is expected to announce a strategic investor for its Equatys D2D satellite joint venture with Viasat before the summer of 2026.

The takeaway

Space42's ambitious plans to build out a 2,800-satellite direct-to-device network and a radar imaging constellation demonstrate the growing demand for innovative satellite-based solutions across telecommunications and Earth observation. These initiatives highlight the UAE's push to become a global leader in the new space economy.