Satellite communications company, Viasat, has officially opened its high-tech international business headquarters in Finsbury Square, London. The site is a key part of Viasat’s focus on streamlining operations and driving synergies to better serve its global mobility and government customer base.
Following Viasat’s acquisition of UK-based Inmarsat last year (which was based nearby) the new London office will be the base for the company’s integrated teams, with a strong focus on technology innovation and scaling execution to support its UK and global customers across the aviation, maritime, and government sectors. The office is also home to Viasat’s UK Network Operations Centre and Satellite Control Centre, which will provide satellite, network and cybersecurity capabilities to customers in the UK and around the world.
To celebrate the opening, Viasat hosted an event with guests including dignitaries, customers and partners, who were given a tour of the ‘Innovation Centre of Excellence’, where Viasat will collaborate with partners on technologies to drive the deployment of IoT solutions and direct-to-device services.
Direct-to-device satellite connectivity can provide consumers with reliable and affordable voice, text, and data capabilities as they move seamlessly between terrestrial and satellite infrastructure.
One guest at the opening event, the UK’s Minister for Space, Andrew Griffith, said: “Viasat locating here in the UK is a testament to our country’s growing reputation as a global space hub where innovation can thrive and businesses flourish. As satellite communications become increasingly central to our modern world, Viasat’s new centre will play a pivotal role in expanding connectivity, whilst also providing high-quality careers and economic growth.”
Jason Smith, president of global operations at Viasat and leader of the London office, added: “The official opening of our international business headquarters is an important moment for the company and underlines our commitment to the UK. Innovation and scalable execution is key to driving growth in the satellite communications industry, and this is one of our core missions. The Innovation Lab we are exhibiting today demonstrates what this commitment means in practical terms. It fosters a partnership ecosystem environment where Viasat can collaborate on technology innovation to drive market discovery and commercial opportunities in areas such as IoT direct-to-device.”
