LightSquared satellite successfully launched

LightSquared reported the successful launch of its SkyTerra 1 satellite today, which once activated will provide the soon-to-be wholesale wireless network provider with nationwide voice and data capabilities.
The company said the Boeing 702HP satellite was launched by International Launch Services via a Proton Breeze M “vehicle” that took off from Kazakhstan’s Baikonur Cosmodrome just after noon Eastern Time on Sunday. In addition to its embedded telecommunications capabilities, the satellite is also capable of integrating with LightSquared’s plans for a ground-based cellular network that will include approximately 40,000 base stations.
“Today, LightSquared has achieved a major milestone in the realization of our mission to revolutionize the wireless industry in the United States,” said Sanjiv Ahuja, chairman and CEO for LightSquared in a statement. “LightSquared is launching the world’s first truly integrated satellite-terrestrial network, combining our 4G-LTE terrestrial network with ubiquitous satellite coverage that will connect rural America and support emergency communications.”
LightSquared EVP Martin Harriman gave a heads-up on the launch during last week’s LTE North America 2010 event in Dallas, noting the launch did not tap into the company’s recent $2 billion that it has garnered in funding. That money is set to be used to build out the Nokia Siemens Networks constructed LTE-based network.