Ligado Networks

Ligado Networks is a Reston, Virginia-based satellite communications company that holds valuable L-band spectrum licenses in the United States. The company's spectrum position between 1525-1559 MHz and 1626.5-1660.5 MHz enables satellite and terrestrial connectivity services for a range of critical applications.

Ligado has worked to leverage its L-band spectrum for next-generation IoT (Internet of Things) connectivity, critical infrastructure communications, and hybrid satellite-terrestrial broadband networks. The company has faced a complex regulatory journey around its spectrum use, particularly around adjacent spectrum coordination with GPS receivers and the Department of Defense.

Despite significant delays and opposition from GPS stakeholders, Ligado received conditional FCC approval in 2020 and continues to develop its business strategy around its spectrum assets, which remain valuable for future satellite broadband and IoT applications in an increasingly connected economy.