IRDM - South Korean Military Adopts Iridium Connectivity | Benzinga
MCLEAN, Va., Feb. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ:IRDM), a leading provider of global voice and data satellite communications, today announced that the Republic of Korea (ROK) Ministry of Defense (MOD) has adopted Iridium® connectivity for strategic use within its military operations. The ROK Army will leverage a full suite of Iridium products and services to enhance operations, including real-time position tracking capabilities for soldiers.
Iridium service provider Arion Communication Co. Ltd. and the ROK MOD's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) supported the implementation by providing the ROK Army with over 1,000 Iridium Connected™ SAT-PRE (Position Reporting Equipment) devices. Iridium solutions will be used to help fortify the ROK Army's capabilities in data tracking and communication, along with augmenting operational efficiency and tactical awareness. Arion will manage Iridium satellite airtime directly with the ROK MOD.
Arion's SAT-PRE supports both Iridium Push-to-Talk (PTT) and Short Burst Data® (SBD®) applications such as messaging and positioning. The device provides the ROK Army with a multi-functional, handheld, truly global communication solution designed to withstand the harshest environments.
"Arion has been a fantastic partner in developing satellite solutions in the region and bringing a unique value that helps advance global military communication capabilities," said Matt Desch, CEO, Iridium. "This is another great example of Iridium facilitating cutting-edge, ubiquitous, and reliable communication solutions for defense forces globally."
"We are very pleased to complete the delivery of the system simultaneously with the supply contract with the ROK MOD's DAPA. The ROK military's satellite communication needs are becoming more diverse, and we anticipate that demand will continue to grow," said Tony Park, CEO, Arion Communications. "This contract is especially meaningful as it is not just a supply of satellite terminals, but also a supply of a satellite communication system that can be fully integrated with the military network ...