Viasat, , a global leader in satellite communications,announced Telespazio, a joint venture between Leonardo(67%) and Thales(33%), has joined its ELEVATE program. 

ELEVATE is a growth program, ecosystem and marketplace for ambitious IoT solution providers, enablers and OEMs who want to work with Viasat to use its network and footprint to scale. As an ELEVATE partner, Telespazio will deliver high-performance connectivity (including data, voice, and broadcasting), satellite operations, and geoinformation services, and enable remote IoT for diverse industries. 

As part of the program Telespazio will have new access to Viasat’s global L-band network to provide Internet of Things (IoT) and satellite connectivity services. Through ELEVATE, it will help its customers connect their people, systems and remote assets by providing a range of satellite connectivity services, including data airtime packages. 

Founded in Italy in 1961, Telespazio is one of the world’s biggest suppliers of satellite solutions and communication services. These include the design and development of space systems, the management of satellite launch and in-orbit control services, Earth observation services, integrated communications, satellite navigation and localization, and scientific programs. 

Telespazio plays a leading role in enterprise markets by leveraging the technological expertise it has acquired through 60 years of activity, developing its own infrastructures, and participating in major space programs such as Galileo, EGNOS, Copernicus and COSMO-SkyMed. 

Telespazio will also gain access to Viasat’s broader partner network, creating opportunities to collaborate on additional niche communications solutions for its customers. 

ELEVATE’s marketplace will help the company attract new customers in locations without reliable connectivity, or those which have mission-critical connectivity needs.  For customers, it gives access to a broad choice of satellite connectivity and IoT solutions developed by a range of providers to enhance the efficiency, safety and sustainability of their businesses. 

James Grisbrook, Senior Director, Marketing and Communications, Viasat Enterprise, said: “Our goal is for ELEVATE to be the go-to destination for satellite IoT innovation. Telespazio has a track record of innovation and execution, and by working with partners like them we can deliver our highly reliable connectivity to a wider ecosystem. Ultimately that will mean more safety, sustainability, or efficiency benefits for industries around the world.” 

Alessandro Caranci, SVP Satellite Communication, Telespazio, said: “Being part of the ELEVATE community commits Telespazio to innovate and develop new applications that nourish the growing IoT market at a faster speed, and with Viasat’s technology, our services can help industries to become more efficient and sustainable – enabling them to take the right actions from anywhere and everywhere in real time!” 

Viasat’s ELEVATE program is open to new entrants, disruptors and established brands of any size who have developed an innovative digital product or service and want to access the power of satellite enabled IoT solutions. Viasat provides dedicated technical guidance on how to integrate and support its highly reliable satellite services, go-to-market strategy planning and exposure to its distribution channel to enable access to new markets. 

Providers working across a diverse range of industries, including, but not limited to, agriculture, aid and NGOs, energy, exploration and leisure, media, mining, transport and utilities, as well as agnostic technology providers, will be considered for membership.