A view of Globalstar offices. Photo credit: Globalstar

Globalstar filed paperwork with French authorities that announced its intention to bring its planned HIBLEO-XL-1 satellite system, offering enhanced mobile connectivity service, into use.

The HIBLEO-XL-1 system includes numerous additional satellites, orbital shells, and frequency bands beyond Globalstar’s currently licensed L-, S- and C-band frequencies. The system also includes mobile satellite services (MSS) bands for mobile uplink and downlink as well as additional feeder-link spectrum. The company said the new system will allow it to provide enhanced connectivity services supporting a wider range of applications for global consumers and industries.

“We believe that bringing HIBLEO-XL-1 into use provides Globalstar with significant optionality as the company grows as a major provider of connectivity in the global space economy that is expected to reach $1.8 trillion by 2035,” Globalstar CEO Dr. Paul Jacobs said in the announcement.

The filling is a continuation of Globalstar’s long-term investment strategy in building up its resources in LEO. Just last year, Globalstar invested $1.5 billion in a third-generation mobile satellite system called C-3, which will include 48 additional satellites supported by approximately 90 new ground station antennas installed globally. Globalstar expects its C-3 satellites to deliver higher power downlink capabilities that improve the user experience for its customers.