Iridium Satellite LLC Forges Distribution Deal With Satellite Distribution Services Inc.

Iridium Satellite LLC, the world's only truly global mobile satellite communications company, today announced an agreement with Satellite Distribution Services, Inc. (SDSI), headquartered in Washington, DC, for management of its worldwide distribution channels. Under the terms of the five-year agreement, SDSI will work with Iridium Satellite management and its investor companies to build a global network of leading service providers that will sell its satellite-based communications solutions to industrial users worldwide.

``Building a solid distribution network that can deliver Iridium services to industrial markets represents a key component of our overall marketing strategy. We will use experienced service providers that understand our target markets and the satellite services we will offer,'' said Dan Colussy, chairman and CEO of Iridium Satellite LLC. ``SDSI's service provider expertise will complement Iridium's internal marketing team, and our experienced investor-affiliated companies to enable us to quickly launch commercial service in the satellite communications marketplace.''

Iridium, which is preparing to launch its mobile satellite communications service to industrial and commercial users, will use SDSI to support its channel relationships with top-tier telecommunications and satellite service providers. SDSI will support the global marketing efforts undertaken by Iridium Satellite through direct interface with the distribution channels. Specifically, SDSI will help identify potential service providers, provide service provider training and assist with implementation of tactical marketing programs.

``Iridium Satellite is launching a completely new venture that promises to deliver extremely compelling voice and data solutions for industrial users in remote locations. As a leader in the satellite communications distribution market, we believe this is an ideal opportunity to expand our service offering,'' said Bob Roe, vice president and general manager of SDSI. ``With a new business plan focused on the vertical markets and a significantly reduced cost structure, we expect Iridium service to become a mainstay of the satellite communications offerings worldwide.''

About Iridium Satellite LLC

Iridium Satellite LLC is the only provider of truly global mobile satellite voice and data solutions with complete coverage of the Earth (including oceans, airways and Polar Regions). Through a constellation of 66 low-earth orbiting (LEO) satellites operated by The Boeing Company, Iridium delivers essential communications services to and from remote areas where no other form of communications is available. The service is ideally suited for industrial applications such as heavy construction, defense/military, emergency services, maritime, mining, forestry, oil & gas and aviation. Iridium currently provides service to the U.S. Department of Defense and will launch commercial service in early 2001.

About Satellite Distribution Services Inc.

SDSI, a wholly owned subsidiary of Stratos Global Corporation, was created to provide channel management and marketing services on behalf of Iridium Satellite to service providers whose customers are operating in remote locations requiring a variety of wireless, IP, data and voice solutions through a range of newly emerging and established technologies. Stratos, SDSI's parent company, serves an array of diverse markets including government, military, industrial, recreational and maritime users anywhere in the world. Stratos is 62 percent owned by Aliant Inc. Further information is available at http://www.stratos.ca .

Monday, February 12, 2001
Source: Iridium LLC