January 12, 2006

Mobile Satellite Ventures announces it bought three new satellites from Boeing to launch its satellite-cellular hybrid network, which the carrier said would cover North and South America with voice and data services.

MSV said Boeing will also deploy some of the ground-based components of the network.

While the contract's value was not disclosed, Boeing said the deal represents its biggest satellite contract in nine years.

Under the agreement, privately held satellite communications company MSV will provide its Ancillary Terrestrial Component technology for the satellites and the ground-based systems. The cellular portion of the network will use CDMA transmission technology. Boeing said it expects the satellites to launch in 2009 and 2010.

"In addition to providing mobile service to users in the most remote regions, the technology deployed by MSV will keep lines of communication open for first responders in times of natural disasters," said Howard Chambers, vice president of Boeing Space & Intelligence Systems.

Source: RCR