THE CUTTING EDGE: FOCUS ON TECHNOLOGY : Globalstar Picks Operating Team for Satellite Phone Launch

Globalstar Telecommunications Ltd. said it named a group of executives to its senior operating team prior to the introduction later this month of its satellite-based telephone network.

Anthony Navarra, who had been Globalstar’s acting chief operating officer, became its president on Wednesday, the New York-based company said. A number of lesser executives were also named to expanded roles.

The changes were made as part of Globalstar’s “transition from a development company to a global telecommunications company,” the company said. It’s aiming to be the first success in the still-developing market for satellite communications. Rival Iridium filed for bankruptcy protection last month after getting less demand for its phones than expected.

Navarra has been acting chief operating officer since March, when he replaced the retiring Douglas Dwyre in the position. Globalstar also said Gloria Everett, the senior vice president of operations, and Joel Schindall, senior vice president and chief engineer, were both given added responsibilities in managing the company’s network systems.

Globalstar is 45% owned by Loral Space & Communications Ltd. Separately, Loral said John Klineberg, 60, was named president of its Space Systems/Loral division. He succeeds Robert Berry, 71, who was named chairman of the division. It designs and builds satellites.