LightSquared, which recently unveiled plans to build a wholesale LTE network across the U.S., signed an agreement with Indian Health Service (IHS), the lead federal agency to serve health needs of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) persons, to donate satellite phones and associated service for use in AI/AN communities. All satellite phones will come with service provided free of charge through 2020 to address the lack of reliable telecommunications connectivity which often plagues Tribal communities.
LightSquared includes the satellite services assets of the former SkyTerra Communications. LightSquared will provide up to 2,000 satellite phones and service to this project, depending on the requirements of IHS.
“The lack of ubiquitous telephone connectivity, let alone broadband, for residents of these Tribal communities is highly regrettable, and we commend FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski for shining the spotlight on this serious issue,” said Sanjiv Ahuja, chief executive officer of LightSquared. “Our goal is to deliver the benefits of modern communications to people who have little or no access and bolster their ability to provide potentially lifesaving services to their fellow citizens.”http://www.LightSquared.com
