Ligado Networks

Company Overview

Ligado Networks, established in 2015 and headquartered in Reston, Virginia, is a private American communications company specializing in satellite communications. The company focuses on advancing connectivity solutions to accelerate the benefits of 5G technology for enterprise customers and consumers.

Historical Background

Ligado Networks originated from the reorganization of LightSquared, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2012 due to regulatory challenges and concerns over GPS interference. After emerging from bankruptcy in December 2015 under new ownership, including Centerbridge Partners LP, Fortress Investment Group LLC, and JPMorgan Chase & Co., the company rebranded as Ligado Networks in February 2016.

Product and Service Portfolio

Building on over 25 years of experience in mobile satellite services, Ligado Networks is developing a satellite-terrestrial network to support the emerging 5G market and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The company holds 40 MHz of spectrum licenses in the L-Band (1500 MHz to 1700 MHz), which it plans to utilize for these advanced connectivity solutions.

Industry Applications

Ligado’s planned network aims to serve various sectors:

• Transportation: Enhancing connectivity for drones, trains, and automobiles.
• Energy: Supporting smart grid communications and monitoring systems.
• Public Safety: Providing reliable communication networks for emergency services.
• Industrial IoT: Enabling advanced applications in manufacturing and logistics.

Notable Achievements

In April 2020, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) unanimously approved Ligado’s application to deploy a low-power terrestrial nationwide network in the L-Band spectrum to support 5G and IoT services. This approval marked a significant milestone for the company’s plans to enhance next-generation connectivity.

Leadership Insights

Ligado Networks is led by President and Chief Executive Officer Douglas Smith, who has been instrumental in steering the company through its restructuring and rebranding phases, focusing on developing innovative solutions in the satellite communications industry.

Financial Performance

As of January 5, 2025, Ligado Networks filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy amid ongoing disputes with the U.S. government regarding spectrum usage and related financial challenges. The company announced a comprehensive restructuring transaction to address its financial situation while continuing to provide mobile satellite services.

Recent Developments

In October 2023, Ligado Networks announced preparations to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy after government negotiations over a multibillion-dollar claim collapsed. Subsequently, the company filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government, alleging unauthorized use of its spectrum by the Department of Defense. These legal actions culminated in the January 2025 bankruptcy filing as part of a comprehensive restructuring effort.

Future Outlook

Despite current financial challenges, Ligado Networks remains committed to advancing its satellite-terrestrial network to support 5G and IoT applications. The company’s restructuring efforts aim to stabilize its financial position and enable continued innovation in delivering next-generation connectivity solutions.

Ligado Networks’ dedication to enhancing connectivity through innovative satellite and terrestrial solutions positions it as a significant player in the evolving wireless communication landscape.