Photo: Ligado.

Ligado Networks said it has received approvals from wireless standard organization Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) to deploy its L-band spectrum in 5G networks. 

The company is developing a 5G Mobile Private Network Solution for sectors including energy, manufacturing, health care, and transportation. Ligado had sought approval from 3GPP last year after its network deployment was approved by the FCC in June 2020. Aerospace and satellite companies and other stakeholders that use GPS signals have sought to overturn the decision, but have not been successful. 

Ligado said in a June 21 announcement that it has already entered into commercial agreements with multiple 5G base station and chipset vendors, and this approval will allow it to expand its vendor ecosystem. 

“The 3GPP green light gives us what we need to accelerate our commercial ecosystem activities and expand Ligado’s roster of partners to deploy this much-needed spectrum for U.S. businesses and consumers,” commented Ligado CEO Doug Smith.

Separately, on June 18, Ligado announced a partner agreement with wireless communication and semiconductor solutions company Saankhya Labs to evaluate and define the adaptation of advanced mobile broadcast technologies for operation on Ligado’s satellite network.