SkyTerra will apply for funds from the NTIA’s Sustainable Adoption Program, part of the Broadband Technology Opportunities Stimulus Program, which seeks to provide funds that will increase broadband adoption in the United States. SkyTerra’s application will focus on increasing broadband adoption by the public safety community.

 

SkyTerra’s application will request $37 million to fund the development and deployment of two dual-mode wireless devices, optimized for public safety use. SkyTerra would provide an additional $9 million, for a total program investment of $46 million. The devices will be capable of communicating with both 700 MHz public safety terrestrial networks and with SkyTerra’s satellites.  The public safety community would then be able to use just one handset to communicate on the 700 MHz terrestrial network, or access the satellite when the 700 MHz network is not available. SkyTerra’s application will include letters showing the need for this technology from cities and public safety agencies in Texas and Florida.  

 

“Advancing the communications capabilities of the public safety community is a key objective for SkyTerra,” said Alexander H. Good, chief executive officer of SkyTerra. “Integrating satellite and 700 MHz capabilities into handsets is important in helping the public safety community meet FCC requirements, and better serve the public during times of crisis. SkyTerra endeavors to play a critical role in advancing technology for the public good.”

 

SkyTerra’s proposal brings critical technology for the public safety community to the market much faster because private investors have not yet put forth similar plans to build this type of dual mode device.

 

 “Incorporating the satellite capability into the 700 MHz handsets for the public safety community is very cost effective, as it allows public safety agencies to cut over to terrestrial facilities as soon as they have a small 700 MHz network, then build out in phases as funds are available,” concluded Good.

 

SkyTerra is developing an integrated satellite-terrestrial communications network, based on SkyTerra’s patented ancillary terrestrial component (ATC) technology. The company expects its next-generation network will provide seamless, transparent and ubiquitous wireless coverage of the United States and Canada to conventional handsets. SkyTerra plans to launch two of the most powerful commercial satellites ever built that will enable this network to support communications in a variety of market segments including public safety, homeland security, aviation, transportation and entertainment, by providing a platform for interoperable, user-friendly and feature-rich voice and high-speed data services. 

 

SkyTerra Communications, Inc. (OTCBB: SKYT) owns 100% of SkyTerra LP. SkyTerra LP and SkyTerra (Canada), Inc. jointly operate the MSAT satellites and telecommunications network.