Iridium Communications
Operates a 66-satellite LEO constellation providing pole-to-pole voice, data, IoT, and PNT services via cross-linked L-band satellites
Iridium Communications owns and operates a constellation of 66 cross-linked low Earth orbit satellites providing voice, data, and IoT services across the entire planet, including polar regions, oceans, and airways. The system uses L-band spectrum and intersatellite links to route traffic without requiring local ground infrastructure. The company completed the Iridium NEXT upgrade in 2019 via eight SpaceX Falcon 9 launches without service interruption.
Iridium Certus is the primary broadband platform, supporting applications from narrowband IoT to broadband connectivity for maritime, aviation, and land mobile users. The company acquired Satelles in 2024, integrating satellite-based positioning, navigation, and timing capabilities. Iridium NTN Direct is in development for satellite-to-smartphone connectivity. Operating a wholesale model through approximately 500 value-added partners, Iridium serves customers in over 150 countries and holds 10-year service contracts with the U.S. Space Force. In fiscal year 2025, Iridium reported total revenue of $872 million with 2.5 million billable subscribers.
Operates non-geostationary satellite infrastructure to deliver hybrid 5G direct-to-device mobile connectivity using globally harmonized S-band spectrum
Operates a multi-orbit satellite fleet combining 33 geostationary satellites and a 600+ LEO constellation to deliver broadcast, broadband, and connectivity services globally