Ligado Networks has raised more than $100 million in a first wave of investment for the build-out of its planned 5G/IoT network, even as a federal agency recently asked the Federal Communications Commission to pause and reconsider Ligado’s ability to operate in its L-Band spectrum under new rules that the commission approved in April.

The new network funding will be “specifically earmarked to operationalize” Ligado’s plans, the company said, and will support chipset and device development and “spectrum standardization.” Ligado said that it is also stepping up its current and new service offerings, including “facilitating Internet of Things device operations across both satellite and terrestrial networks and providing spectrum partnerships to mobile operators.”

“With this new round of capital, we are better prepared than ever to do exactly what we’ve said: get this mid-band spectrum deployed to support the next-generation wireless networks needed to bring America’s critical infrastructure and essential services into the 21st century,” said Ligado CEO Doug Smith. “The investments will create American jobs, expand innovation and directly enhance critical industries such as first responders, health care workers and supply chain personnel that depend on ubiquitous and ultra-reliable networks to protect and secure American lives.”

Read the full article RCR Wireless News.