March 21, 2005  Iridium Satellite announced that it will introduce a new, cost-effective 9600 data  transceiver this year based on the company's Short Burst Data (SBD) technology.  This move will extend the unique capabilities of Iridium to a new set of markets, expanding service in asset tracking, remote monitoring and telemetry reporting. The 9600 transceiver will offer a superior price-performance capability over existing satellite-based options.   Iridium's SBD Service, which the 9600 will enable, is an efficient packet-based technology.  It is optimized for the frequent data transmissions that asset tracking and remote monitoring applications typically require. "The 9600 transceiver will permit Iridium's solution partners to offer the only complete capability with the following features -- global coverage, uniform low-latency, two-way communications, and low hardware cost," said Don Thoma, executive vice president, Iridium Satellite.  "Iridium will be working closely with OEM manufacturers to integrate the 9600 as part of a range of complete wireless data applications." Iridium envisions widespread adoption of the 9600 transceiver for enterprise-scale solutions which require immediate and comprehensive access to critical data from the field.  Examples include supply chain management, field force automation, and even maintenance repair and overhaul systems. "For the first time, the large-scale systems which form the backbone of any global enterprise will have immediate and unfettered access to data from remote assets deployed around the world," Thoma noted.  "For example, using solutions built with our technology, a global firm will be able to receive real-time visibility into its supply chain, optimizing delivery and reducing time to market." Iridium anticipates production deliveries of the 9600 to begin in late 2005.  Iridium value-added manufacturers and resellers are beginning plans to integrate the transceiver into a wide range of satellite data communications products for specific vertical market applications. "Iridium saw dramatic growth in data traffic during the past 12 months with an increase of 49% over 2003," Thoma said.  "We expect the 9600 to continue to accelerate market adoption - particularly in industries such as heavy equipment, over-the-road transportation, oil and gas, maritime, rail, utilities and government applications." About Iridium Satellite Iridium Satellite LLC (www.iridium.com) is the only provider of truly global satellite voice and data solutions with complete coverage of the earth (including oceans, airways and Polar Regions).  Iridium delivers essential communications services to and from remote areas where no other form of communication is available.  Iridium makes this possible through its constellation of 66 low-earth orbiting (LEO), cross-linked satellites.  The company also has 13 spare satellites in-orbit.  The Iridium service is ideally suited for industries such as maritime, aviation, government/military, emergency/humanitarian services, mining, forestry, oil and gas, and heavy construction.  Iridium provides service to the U.S. Department of Defense, and sells equipment and services through 44 service providers.  In addition, 28 value-added manufacturers build Iridium-based products, and 22 value-added resellers build and sell Iridium-based solutions.