To provide high quality MSS voice and duplex data solutions to its customers, Applied Satellite Technology Ltd (AST), a provider of satellite communication products and services, has signed an authorized distribution agreement with Globalstar (News - Alert) Europe Satellite Services Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc. The new agreement will enable AST to do a second inning as a National Distributor for Globalstar's suite of duplex products to the defense, government and maritime sectors within the UK Mainland Territory via its established dealer channel.

In a statement, Jason Abbott, director, AST said, "We are very excited to be working with Globalstar Europe again as they deploy the second-generation constellation. The replenishment of Globalstar's network is nearing completion and now is an ideal time for AST to strengthen our existing partnership as a leading Globalstar distributor. The reintroduction of Globalstar with its legendary voice call quality and enhanced duplex service will enrich our portfolio of MSS products and enable us to offer more choice to our resellers."

"As we complete the deployment of our second-generation constellation of satellites, we are delighted that AST has chosen to offer their customers Globalstar's unique line-up of high quality MSS voice and duplex data solutions,” said Mark O'Connell, director, European Sales & Business Operations, Globalstar Europe Satellite Services Ltd.

After its third successful launch of six new second-generation Globalstar satellites in 2011, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan using the Soyuz launch vehicle, Globalstar is planning to launch six additional satellites in the first quarter of 2013. The Globalstar second-generation satellite constellation is designed to support the company's current line-up of voice, duplex and simplex M2M data products and services including its suite of SPOT retail consumer products. The new satellites are designed to last for 15 years, twice the lifespan of Globalstar's first-generation satellites.

As new second-generation satellites were placed into service during the third quarter of 2012, call connection rates in key markets continued to increase. During the fourth quarter of 2012, the company anticipates placing more second-generation satellites into service. Globalstar's performance will further improve once the fourth launch is completed and the six additional satellites are deployed. These additional satellites will enable Globalstar to achieve continued improvement in call completion rates as the network reaches full coverage. 

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