Iridium and Qualcomm partner for satellite connectivity in Snapdragon radio

Iridium (IRDM) and Qualcomm (QCOM) have integrated Iridium data services into the Snapdragon Mission Tactical Radio and intend to make these services available for adoption and use by U.S. government customers and approved allied partners. By integrating Iridium data services, Snapdragon MTR-equipped devices, ranging from handheld and mounted radios to autonomous vehicles, stand to benefit from L-band satellite communications in environments where terrestrial networks are congested, compromised, or unavailable. The Snapdragon MTR can integrate multiple Iridium services into a single chipset for receipt of simultaneous broadcasts to an unlimited number of enabled devices. QTI-powered devices with integrated Iridium data services, which will be eligible for activation through the Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services program, are expected to be available following finalization of commercial arrangements among QTI, Iridium and original equipment manufacturers.