Teledesic Inks Satellite Deal
By Susan Rush
from BroadbandWeek Direct - February 1, 2002
Teledesic LLC is ready to move full-speed ahead on its global, broadband Internet-in-the-Sky satellite communications network, and is turning to satellite manufacturer Alenia Spazio to make it happen.
The newly signed deal calls for the Italian satellite manufacturer to construct Teledesic's first two satellites. The construction of 12 satellites for Teledesic's network is expected to cost less than $1 billion, according to the company. Teledesic is negotiating with Alenia Spazio and other satellite manufacturers for the remainder of its satellites.
"Our agreement with Alenia Spazio is an important step toward developing our global broadband satellite communications network," Teledesic President Dennis James said in a statement. The company expects the network to serve the broadband needs of governments, businesses, non-profit organizations and individuals on a global basis.
In August, Teledesic announced it was shopping for a prime contractor to build its global, broadband communications network. At the time of the announcement, the company had narrowed its choice down to two -- Alenia Spazio and Lockheed Martin Commercial Space Systems.
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