Motorola Inc, Schaumberg, Illinois has given the Russian space launch effort its biggest fillip since the collapse of the Soviet Union by signing Khrunichev Enterprises of the Russian Federation to launch 21 of the 66 satellites that will form its $3,370m Iridium global communications network, which is intended to provide cellular-style telephony in all the areas of the world where terrestrial cellular service is not feasible. According to Motorola, Krunichev has obtained Russian Federation approval to invest $40m in the project, as part of the effort to bring in modern telecommunications. Terms for the launches were not disclosed, but the birds are due to fly in 1996. Most of the other satellites will be launched by McDonnell Douglas Corp, subject to further negotiations. Motorola will retain 15% and Motorola Satellite Communications in Chandler, Arizona will be prime contractor.
