Recognizing the fact that the existing Ancillary Terrestrial Component (ATC) regulatory regime is not the best framework for development of terrestrial mobile broadband, the FCC voted unanimously yesterday to propose new rules that jettison the old regime in favor of establishing a new terrestrial service band that is subject to much more flexible Part 27 regulation. If ultimately adopted, these proposed rules will lead to more investment, more innovation, more competition and therefore more consumer choices in the ever expanding mobile broadband marketplace.

Globalstar enthusiastically supports the FCC's recommended actions, looks forward to participating in this rulemaking and anticipates that the Commission will proceed expeditiously to adopt the proposed new rules. The FCC further stated that it intends to address issues pertaining to the ATC rules for Globalstar's Big LEO band in a separate proceeding at a later date. "As Globalstar completes the launch and deployment of its second-generation constellation, we look forward to participating in that future proceeding and anticipate receiving similar flexibility to offer terrestrial services within the Big LEO band," said L. Barbee Ponder, General Counsel & Vice President, Regulatory Affairs for Globalstar, Inc.