Globalstar USA Introduces Maritime Kit for Complete Satellite-Based Communications At Sea; Maritime Kit Enables Ocean Coverage for Sea-Going Vessels and Yachts

Cambridge Telcom Report, May 22, 2000

Globalstar USA, the exclusive provider of Globalstar's satellite-based communications services in the United States and Airstar, a Globalstar USA distributor, Monday announced the availability of the Starphone QM 2500 maritime phone. With the Starphone QM 2500, Globalstar users can maintain reliable satellite-based communications from inside a boat's cabin from up to 200 miles from shore, and cellular communications up to 20 miles from shore. The unit can also be used as a tri-mode portable phone both on land and shore by removing it from its boat-cradle.

STARPHONE QM 2500 - $1,499 Retail The Starphone QM 2500 maritime phone combines Globalstar's satellite-based communications services with Airstar's QM 2000 marine panel part-set, the Qualcomm GSP 1600 tri-mode portable phone (operable in satellite, digital and analog modes) and Qualcomm's hands-free car kit products. The portable unit is available for fixed installation inside a boat or yacht's cabin, to be used from the vessel's nav-station, saloon or bridge area. It is recommended that the phone be mounted indoors to avoid weather damage, but can be used for occasional outdoor use during poor weather conditions using a protective, clear water-tight cover.

"There has been a large demand for maritime phones, ranging from small craft owners to large cruise lines," said Mike Kerr, vice president and general manager of Globalstar USA. "We are pleased that we can accommodate the need for this type of product and flexibility in service."

Availability

Individuals and businesses can purchase a Globalstar phone and service through Globalstar USA's distributors located throughout the United States. A list of dealers can be found by calling Globalstar USA at 1-877-SATPHONE (877-728-7466), or by visiting Globalstar USA's web site at www.globalstarusa.com.

To locate the nearest Globalstar USA dealer to purchase the Qualcomm GSP 1600 separately, go to http://www.globalstarusa.com/dealer/locator/index.shtml.> Globalstar USA, a Vodafone AirTouch Plc. subsidiary, has exclusive rights to sell Globalstar satellite service in United States and is responsible for building the satellite gateways and interconnecting with the phone network, development and management of billing and customer care systems, sales, product distribution and marketing. Globalstar USA's business strategy focuses on superior service delivery and is based on a customer-focused model of quality, simplicity and value.

Airstar focuses on the LEO (low-earth orbit) mobile communications business and has a background in both cellular and digital broadcast systems (DBS). Airstar serves customers in the aviation, maritime, and sports and leisure markets in North America. For more information go to http://www.airstarcomm.com.

Globalstar L.P., led by founding partner Loral Space & Communications, is a partnership of the world's leading telecommunications service providers and equipment manufacturers, including Qualcomm Incorporated, Alcatel, Alenia, China Telecom (HK), DACOM, DaimlerChrysler Aerospace, Elsacom (a Finmeccanica company), France Telecom, Hyundai, Space Systems/Loral and Vodafone AirTouch Plc. For more information, visit Globalstar's web site at www.globalstar.com.

Globalstar has 15 gateways across five continents, with commercial service available in 38 countries. By the end of June, the company expects 22 gateways to be in operation, with commercial service in 50 countries.