Iridium Appoints Globe Wireless as Charter Distribution Partner for OpenPort

Palm Bay, Florida, USA (25th Feb 2008): Today, Globe Wireless has been appointed by Iridium as the only Charter Distribution Partner for its new broadband maritime satellite service, called OpenPort.

Iridium’s new OpenPort service utilizes the existing constellation of 66 satellites to provide always-on broadband IP (Internet Protocol) data service and 3 simultaneous voice lines, at extremely competitive equipment and airtime pricing.

Globe Wireless is the world leader in maritime communications end-to-end solutions, providing a complete range of services to over 8,600 ships and over 550 ship operators. Frank Coles, President and CEO of Globe Wireless said, “Ship operators are looking to incorporate ships more closely into the office environment, enhance crew voice and browsing services, and reduce communications costs overall. Iridium’s OpenPort offers simple and cost effective answer.”

The OpenPort system uses omni-directional antenna that weighs approximately 10Kg. The system provides a dedicated IP connection at speeds of up to 128Kbps. Airtime rates for data and voice services are less than half the price of traditional maritime satellite systems. “Iridium believes that Globe Wireless can combine the OpenPort system with their messaging systems, applications, services, and support to form a unique offer to the maritime market.” commented Ted O’Brien, Vice President and General Manager of Iridium.

Mr. Coles added, “Our vertical integration already differentiates Globe Wireless from competitors. Iridium OpenPort will allow us to continue to meet our customer’s increasing requirement for bandwidth while maintaining cost control.”

Globe Wireless is accepting pre-orders for OpenPort equipment, which is expected to be available in Q3 2008.

About Globe Wireless
Globe Wireless LLC (http://www.globewireless.com) is a leader in maritime communications and IT solutions, providing voice, data, and maritime applications for merchant ships. Globe has a direct relationship with the customer and is able to “touch the ship” anywhere in the world at anytime. The company maintains sales and support offices in 14 worldwide locations. A dedicated team of technical service personnel provides shipboard service and support for IT and communications systems in all major ports.

About Iridium
Iridium Satellite LLC (http://www.iridium.com/) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) offering gap-free, pole-to-pole coverage over the entire globe. Iridium's constellation of 66 low-earth-orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites (and multiple in-orbit spares) provides critical voice and data services for regions not served by other communication networks. Driven by increasing demand for reliable, secure, global, mobile satellite links, Iridium has been steadily growing at a double-digit annual rate since 2004. Iridium serves commercial markets through a worldwide network of more than 150 partners, and also provides services to the U.S. Department of Defense, and other U.S. and international government agencies. The company's 250,000 users are in the maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation industries. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next- generation satellite constellation, called "NEXT," through which it will enable satellite-based innovations beyond communications. The company is based in Bethesda, Md., and Tempe, Ariz., U.S.A. and is privately held.

For additional information:
Shane Rossbacher
Vice President Product Management, Globe Wireless
Telephone: +1-321-309-1339
Email: shane.rossbacher@globewireless.com
Frank J. Coles
President & CEO, Globe Wireless
Telephone: +1-321-309-1364
Email: frank.coles@globewireless.com
John R. “Ted” O’Brien
Vice President and General Manager
Iridium Satellite LLC
Telephone: +1-301-571-6252
Email: ted.obrien@iridium.com