Iridium’s Matt Desch Earns 11th Wash100 Award
Executive Mosaic is honored to introduce Matt Desch, CEO and director of Iridium Communications, as a 2025 Wash100 Award recipient for leading technological innovation and global expansion at the company.
This is the eleventh time Desch has received the prestigious award, which is given to 100 outstanding executives in the government and government contracting landscape in recognition of their impact, vision, achievements and future impact.
“Matt Desch, familiar in name and solid in industry reputation, is Wash100 royalty. With his 11th win, he stands at the very top of the CEO leadership ranks—a testament to his exceptional accomplishments at Iridium and what will continue on as his lasting impact on the satellite communications industry. Under Matt’s guidance, Iridium has continued to expand its global reach, delivering critical, reliable connectivity for government and commercial users alike. Matt’s vision has blanketed the globe with complete overhead coverage of surface and aerial movement in addition to communication. This galactic achievement is on the heels of a very difficult start for the storied satellite firm,” said Jim Garrettson, CEO of Executive Mosaic and founder of the Wash100 Award.
“Matt has propelled not just Iridium’s success but the entire satcom landscape, and his ability to navigate an ever-changing industry with steady, strategic leadership is exactly why he remains one of the most respected executives in the field. My prediction is an Iridium that not only serves the commercial and government markets but will become essential for a majority of firms that look toward the heavens for the future,” added Garrettson.
A Journey Through Telecommunications Leadership
Desch has served as Iridium CEO and director since 2006, leading the company through transformative growth. With over four decades of experience in telecommunications, Desch’s career began at Bell Laboratories and AT&T, where he gained expertise in network management and wireless technologies. Before joining Iridium, he served as CEO of Telcordia Technologies, driving the company’s evolution in software and network services. His extensive industry knowledge and strategic acumen have made him a prominent figure in the satellite communications sector.
Advancing Innovation in Satellite Technology
Under Desch’s leadership, Iridium has consistently pursued technological innovation and global expansion. In a strategic push to enhance Positioning, Navigation and Timing capabilities, the company is exploring small satellites for next-generation services. Additionally, the launch of Iridium’s Satellite Time and Location service and the acquisition of Satelles have strengthened its assured PNT offerings. Desch highlighted the company’s dedication to innovation, stating that these initiatives are crucial in maintaining resilience against GPS disruptions.
Further cementing Iridium’s market leadership, the company’s Project Stardust aims to enable direct-to-device satellite communication, facilitating seamless global connectivity. Additionally, Iridium introduced a new satellite-enabled module for the Internet of Things, expanding its service portfolio to meet growing demand across sectors. Recognizing the importance of global safety, Iridium also launched its Global Maritime Distress and Safety System service, providing reliable emergency communications for maritime operators worldwide.
Securing Strategic Partnerships and Government Contracts
Desch’s strategic leadership has secured several high-value contracts, underscoring Iridium’s vital role in global communications. Space Systems Command awarded the company a $94 million contract to provide satellite services for the U.S. Department of Defense. Additionally, a $491.6 million contract from the Space Development Agency highlights Iridium’s commitment to supporting national security with commercial innovation.
Iridium also established a five-year agreement with L3Harris to enhance the Federal Aviation Administration’s critical infrastructure resilience. Internationally, the South Korean Army adopted Iridium’s connectivity services for position and data tracking. These partnerships reflect Desch’s emphasis on advancing global communications infrastructure and ensuring reliable connectivity for military and civilian applications.
Recognized Excellence in Leadership
Desch’s focus on innovation and strategic expansion has been widely acknowledged across the industry.
In addition to the Wash100 Award, Iridium received the 2024 James S. Cogswell Outstanding Industrial Security Achievement Award, recognizing the company’s commitment to industrial security excellence. These honors exemplify Desch’s dedication to fostering innovation, securing critical infrastructure and advancing Iridium’s leadership in satellite communications.
Desch’s visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of innovation continue to drive Iridium’s success, solidifying its position as a leader in the satellite communications industry. Executive Mosaic is honored to include him in the 2025 Wash100 roster of exemplary government contracting leaders.
Vote for Desch at Wash100.com.