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Globalstar<\/a>, a satellite network operator backed by Apple, has purchased launches from SpaceX worth $64 million, according to regulatory filings.<\/p>\n The launches, which are scheduled for 2025, will send at least 17 new satellites to low Earth orbit to replenish Globalstar\u2019s existing constellation. Globalstar entered into a $327 million purchase agreement with MDA for those satellites in February last year, with Rocket Lab acting as subcontractor supplying the spacecraft chassis.<\/p>\n Apple is reimbursing Globalstar for 95% of the capital expenditures related to the satellites, including the launch costs. The consumer hardware giant also agreed to provide $252 million in funding for the upfront costs associated with replenishing the satellite constellation, as well as money to improve the satellite operator\u2019s ground station network<\/a>.<\/p>\n In return, Apple said it would use 85% of Globalstar\u2019s network capacity to provide emergency satellite connectivity for iPhones<\/a> outside of cellular networks.<\/p>\n The new contract reflects the near-monopoly SpaceX currently holds on orbital launches. SpaceX is also developing its own \u201csat-to-cell\u201d plans through its Starlink satellite constellation, making it and Globalstar something of competitors. That competition became stark last year, when SpaceX filed a request with regulators for more spectrum for its Starlink, including portions of the 1.6\/2.4 GHz spectrum bands that have been used exclusively by Globalstar.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n