Iridium Communications, a McLean, Va.–based developer of a mobile voice and data satellite communications network, recently completed a $3 billion satellite constellation upgrade campaign. The company is calling the campaign Iridium NEXT, after activating the final two satellites on Feb. 5 needed to complete the network. It ends a decade-long upgrade process both in space and on the ground.

Iridium held a press conference at the National Press Club on Tuesday, Feb. 6, to announce that the constellation now features 66 satellites, with no further launches planned.

“This is the realization of a long, successful climb, and reaching the peak, it’s gratifying to know the future of the company is secure, and we have now financially matured as a satellite operator,” Iridium CEO Matt Desch said in a statement. “Huge thanks are in order to our entire team, particularly our friends at SpaceX and our prime satellite manufacturer Thales Alenia Space and their teams.”

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