MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 5, 2011 -- Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq:IRDM) has introduced the latest version of its Direct Internet software package, making it easier and faster to connect to the Internet using the Iridium 9555 and Iridium 9505A satellite phones, along with the Iridium 9522B L-Band Transceiver (LBT).

Direct Internet 3 takes advantage of new data compression, caching and network optimization techniques to enhance Internet connectivity through the Iridium satellite network. Powered by SlipStream® SP6.0 with Now!Imaging™ compression technology, Direct Internet 3 uses concurrent object delivery functionality to accelerate page download speeds for image-rich websites.

According to independent testing conducted by appLabs Technologies, an international third-party independent product/solution testing and certification organization commissioned by SlipStream Data Inc., Direct Internet 3 makes Internet browsing up to 5.4 times faster than with no acceleration or Internet optimization technology installed. This is 20 percent faster than the previous optimization software, Direct Internet 2.

Direct Internet 3 supports the Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and any 64-bit version of the Windows operating system, as well as Mac OS. The new Direct Internet 3 installer guides the user step-by-step through the installation and configuration of software.

"Iridium subscribers are increasingly looking to use their Iridium devices to connect their laptops to the Internet from remote locations to send and receive e-mails, upload and download data files, transmit text to blogs and social media sites, and browse websites," said Joel Thompson, vice president of product management, Iridium. "Direct Internet 3 will greatly improve user experience by speeding page download times and data transmission through the Iridium network. It's now easier and faster than ever to connect to the Internet from our Iridium 9555 and Iridium 9505A phones, along with the LBT – everywhere."

Iridium continues to enhance its offerings in preparation for Iridium NEXT, the Company's next-generation satellite constellation expected to begin launching in 2015. The introduction of Direct Internet 3 is part of Iridium's program of continuous improvement in network quality and customer satisfaction.

All new Iridium 9555 phones will offer the Direct Internet 3 download package as a standard feature. For existing phones in the field, a complimentary upgrade is available through the customer's service provider. For more information on Direct Internet 3, visit www.iridium.com/Iridium9555.

In addition, www.iridium.com/mobile is now available for use in conjunction with this software. This optimized mobile version of the Iridium website, with smaller file sizes and fewer graphics, enables visitors to access content on top websites 10 times faster. Iridium customers can bookmark this as a home page to quickly access news, finance, sports and reference websites.

SlipStream is a registered trademark and NOW!Imaging is a trademark of SlipStream Data Inc. (www.slipstream.com).

About Iridium Communications Inc.

Iridium Communications Inc. (www.iridium.com) is the only mobile satellite service (MSS) company offering coverage over the entire globe. The Iridium constellation of low-Earth orbiting (LEO) cross-linked satellites provides critical voice and data services for areas not served by terrestrial communication networks. Iridium serves commercial markets through a worldwide network of distributors, and provides services to the U.S. Department of Defense and other U.S. and international government agencies. The company's customers represent a broad spectrum of industry, including maritime, aeronautical, government/defense, public safety, utilities, oil/gas, mining, forestry, heavy equipment and transportation. Iridium has launched a major development program for its next-generation satellite constellation, Iridium NEXT. The company is headquartered in McLean, Va., U.S.A. and trades on the NASDAQ Global Market under the ticker symbols IRDM (common stock), IRDMW ($7.00 warrants), IRDMZ ($11.50 warrants) and IRDMU (units).

CONTACT:  Iridium Communications Inc.

          Press Contact:

          Marie Knowles

          +1 (703) 287-7476

          marie.knowles@iridium.com



          Rhodes Communications

          Press Contact:

          Jim Rhodes

          +1 (757) 451-0602

          jrhodes@rhodescomm.com