Cellular South adds LTE by finding out that the pen is mightier than the backhoe

Why spend all that money to build out a LTE network when all it takes is a signed contract with an LTE provider like LightSquared. Cellular South has signed a contract with LightSquared to provide the 4G service to its 900,000 customers. But the latter won't be flicking the switch to on until 2012. The deal provides high-speed coverage to the carrier's rural customers and satellite connectivity for those far away from civilization. Cellular South joins the others who have inked a deal with LightSquared, like Best Buy Connect, SI Wireless and Cricket.

LightSquared does have to resolve the problem they are having with the USAF. The military says that GPS signals are overpowered by LightSquared's LTE towers within 3-5 miles on the ground and 12 miles in the air. A final report is expected at the headquarters of the FCC on June 15th.

source: Engadget