Globalstar is planning to launch six new second-generation satellites on 25 December 2011, which will be the third launch of its second-generation constellation satellites.

Globalstar launched six new satellites during October 2010 and a further six in July 2011.

Based on a recommendation by Thales Alenia Space, the company has replaced one satellite, which was originally scheduled for the third launch, with another spacecraft already at the Baikonur Cosmodrome launch site to reduce the risk of momentum wheel issues.

According to Globalstar, the third satellite from the July 2011 launch is now operational and is providing mobile and data services to the company’s global customer base.

Globalstar said a fourth launch is expected to be completed in the first half of 2012.