Iridium Communications Inc. is launching a special U.S. government version of the Iridium® 9603 module, built for Enhanced Short Burst Data (ESBD).
ESBD is a low-latency, secure messaging service designed to provide optimal transmission security (TRANSEC) for the U.S. government and approved allies. The ESBD version can serve as a drop-in replacement for the existing Iridium 9603 Short Burst Data® (SBD®) module.
In addition to Iridium’s known reliability and resiliency, the Iridium 9603 ESBD delivers secure one- or two-way messaging with increased payload capacity for mobile-originated (MO) and mobile-terminated (MT) messages. Example applications include command and control (C2), image data transfer, and personnel and asset tracking.
The upgraded module represents the company’s latest innovation in support of the Enhanced Mobile Satellite Services (EMSS) program—a decades-long partnership that provides global, standard, and secure voice, broadcast, push-to-talk (PTT), and other services to an unlimited number of Department of Defense and DoD-approved subscribers anywhere on Earth. The Iridium 9603 ESBD is expected to be available to EMSS-approved value-added manufacturers in July.
With its unique low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, Iridium provides resilient L-band connectivity and global coverage that avoids the permanent line-of-sight blockages often encountered by geostationary (GEO) systems. This ensures the reliable delivery of mission-critical communications for the DoD and other federal agencies.
Whether operating in high-risk combat zones or during severe weather events, the Iridium network provides pole-to-pole satellite communications that keep users connected when it matters most—making it a critical component of the Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency (PACE) communications architecture.
Scott Scheimreif, executive vice president, government programs, Iridium, commented, “Iridium 9603 ESBD is a testament to Iridium’s commitment to investing in secure, low-latency solutions that address threats in the changing global environment. The new module offers end-to-end communication security for critical operations, helping ensure warfighters can exchange vital information with confidence — no matter the environment. This capability not only safeguards mission success but also reflects the Department of Defense’s trust in Iridium’s proven technology, network reliability, and operational excellence.”
