Loral Space & Communications 10-Q 9 May 17 2017 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	May 01, 2017
Entity Information [Line Items]
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Trading Symbol	lorl
Entity Registrant Name	LORAL SPACE & COMMUNICATIONS INC.
Entity Central Index Key	1,006,269
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Voting Common Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		21,427,078
Nonvoting Common Stock [Member]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		9,505,673

Condensed Consolidated Balance

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 273,797	$ 37,458
Other current assets	3,819	3,483
Total current assets	277,616	40,941
Investments in affiliates		107,950
Deferred tax assets	109,505	115,285
Other assets	43	55
Total assets	387,164	264,231
Current liabilities:
Accrued employment costs	1,162	2,356
Income taxes payable	52,999
Other current liabilities	1,388	3,772
Total current liabilities	55,549	6,128
Pension and other postretirement liabilities	18,233	18,433
Long-term liabilities	69,909	69,259
Total liabilities	143,691	93,820
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' Equity:
Preferred stock, 0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding
Common Stock:
Paid-in capital	1,019,988	1,019,988
Accumulated deficit	(750,360)	(826,460)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(16,874)	(13,836)
Total shareholders' equity attributable to Loral	243,473	170,411
Total shareholders' equity	243,473	170,411
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity	387,164	264,231
Voting Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock:
Common stock, 0.01 par value	216	216
Treasury stock (at cost), 154,494 shares of voting common stock	(9,592)	(9,592)
Nonvoting Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock:
Common stock, 0.01 par value	$ 95	$ 95

Condensed Consolidated Balance3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Preferred stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized	10,000,000	10,000,000
Preferred stock, shares issued	0	0
Preferred stock, shares outstanding	0	0
Voting Common Stock [Member]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	21,581,572	21,581,572
Treasury stock, shares	154,494	154,494
Nonvoting Common Stock [Member]
Common stock, par value	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	20,000,000	20,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	9,505,673	9,505,673
Common stock, shares outstanding	9,505,673	9,505,673

Condensed Consolidated Statemen

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Abstract]
General and administrative expenses	$ (2,063)	$ (1,517)
Operating income (loss)	(2,063)	(1,517)
Interest and investment income	399	48
Interest expense	(5)	(5)
Other income (expense)	(617)	(526)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in net income (loss) of affiliates	(2,286)	(2,000)
Income tax (provision) benefit	(66,064)	(13,675)
Income (loss) from continuing operations before equity in net income (loss) of affiliates	(68,350)	(15,675)
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates	139,714	46,494
(Loss) income from continuing operations	71,364	30,819
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax provision	(5)	(133)
Net (loss) income	71,359	30,686
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	(3,038)	9,159
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 68,321	$ 39,845
Net income (loss) per share: Basic
(Loss) income from continuing operations	$ 2.31	$ 1
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net (loss) income	2.31	1
Net income (loss) per share: Diluted
(Loss) income from continuing operations	2.30	0.94
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
Net (loss) income	$ 2.30	$ 0.94
Weighted average common shares outstanding:
Basic	30,933	30,933
Diluted	31,008	31,008

Condensed Consolidated Stateme5

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Voting Common Stock [Member]Common Stock [Member]	Nonvoting Common Stock [Member]Common Stock [Member]	Paid-In Capital [Member]	Treasury Stock [Member]	Retained Earnings [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]	Total
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 216	$ 95	$ 1,020,129	$ (9,592)	$ (873,660)	$ (28,698)	$ 108,490
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2015	21,582	9,506		154
Net income (loss)					47,200
Other comprehensive income (loss)						14,862
Comprehensive income (loss)							62,062
Tax benefit associated with stock-based compensation			(141)				(141)
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	$ 216	$ 95	1,019,988	$ (9,592)	(826,460)	(13,836)	170,411
Balance, shares at Dec. 31, 2016	21,582	9,506		154
Net income (loss)					71,359		71,359
Other comprehensive income (loss)						(3,038)	(3,038)
Comprehensive income (loss)							68,321
Cumulative effect adjustment attributable to previously unrecognized excess tax benefits on stock-based compensation					4,741		4,741
Balance at Mar. 31, 2017	$ 216	$ 95	$ 1,019,988	$ (9,592)	$ (750,360)	$ (16,874)	$ 243,473
Balance, shares at Mar. 31, 2017	21,582	9,506		154

Condensed Consolidated Stateme6

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Operating activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 71,359	$ 30,686
(Income) loss from discontinued operations, net of tax provision	5	133
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:
Non-cash operating items (Note 2)	(127,289)	(33,203)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Other current assets and other assets	(703)	(855)
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities	(777)	(1,475)
Income taxes receivable and payable	53,362	30
Pension and other postretirement liabilities	(200)	(173)
Long-term liabilities	656	483
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities - continuing operations	(3,587)	(4,374)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities - discontinued operations	(2,809)	(2,809)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	(6,396)	(7,183)
Investing activities:
Distribution received from affiliate	242,735
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities - continuing operations	242,735
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	242,735
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	236,339	(7,183)
Cash and cash equivalents - beginning of period	37,458	58,853
Cash and cash equivalents - end of period	$ 273,797	$ 51,670

Organization and Principal Busi

Organization and Principal Business	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Organization and Principal Business [Abstract]
Organization and Principal Business	1. Organization and Principal Business  Loral Space & Communications Inc., together with its subsidiaries (“Loral,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us”) is a leading satellite communications company engaged, through our ownership interests in affiliates, in satellite-based communications services.  Description of Business  Loral has one operating segment consisting of satellite-based communications services. Loral participates in satellite services operations through its ownership interest in Teleast Canada (“Telesat”), a leading global satellite services provider. Prior to and as of December 31, 2016, Telesat Canada was a subsidiary of, and Loral held its ownership interest in Telesat Canada through, Telesat Holdings Inc. Effective January 1, 2017, Telesat Holdings Inc. completed a corporate reorganization pursuant to which Telesat Holdings Inc. amalgamated with Telesat Interco Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Telesat Holdings Inc., and immediately thereafter the newly amalgamated company amalgamated with Telesat Canada. The continuing entity, existing under the laws of Canada, is named Telesat Canada.  Telesat owns and leases a satellite fleet that operates in geosynchronous earth orbit approximately 22,000 miles above the equator. In this orbit, satellites remain in a fixed position relative to points on the earth’s surface and provide reliable, high-bandwidth services anywhere in their coverage areas, serving as the backbone for many forms of telecommunications. Telesat is also developing a global constellation of low earth orbit (“LEO”) satellites. LEO satellites operate in a circular orbit around the earth with an altitude typically between 500 and 870 miles. Unlike geosynchronous satellites that operate in a fixed orbital location above the equator, LEO satellites travel around the earth at high velocities requiring antennas on the ground to track their movement. LEO satellite systems have the potential to offer a number of advantages over geosynchronous orbit satellites to meet growing requirements for broadband services, both consumer and commercial, by providing increased data speeds and capacity, global coverage, and latency on par with, or potentially better than, terrestrial services.  Loral holds a 62.7% economic interest and a 32.7 % voting interest in Telesat (see Note 5). We use the equity method of accounting for our ownership interest in Telesat.

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	 2. Basis of Presentation  The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and, in our opinion, include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) necessary for a fair presentation of results of operations, financial position and cash flows as of the balance sheet dates presented and for the periods presented. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to SEC rules. We believe that the disclosures made are adequate to keep the information presented from being misleading. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.  The December 31, 2016 balance sheet has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements included in our latest Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC.  Discontinued Operations  On November 2, 2012, Loral completed the sale (the “Sale”) of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Space Systems/Loral, LLC (formerly known as Space Systems/Loral, Inc.) (“SSL”), to MDA Communications Holdings, Inc. (“MDA Holdings”), a subsidiary of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (“MDA”). Pursuant to the purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), dated as of June 26, 2012, as amended on October 30, 2012 and March 28, 2013, by and among Loral, SSL, MDA and MDA Holdings, Loral agreed to indemnify MDA and its affiliates from (1) liabilities with respect to certain pre-closing taxes; and (2) certain damages and legal expenses stemming from a lawsuit (the “ViaSat Suit”) brought in 2012 by ViaSat, Inc. (“ViaSat”) against Loral and SSL (see Note 13). Interest expense that is directly related to the Sale is classified as discontinued operations in the statements of operations and cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016.  Investments in Affiliates  Our ownership interest in Telesat is accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Income and losses of Telesat are recorded based on our economic interest. Our equity in net income or loss of Telesat also reflects amortization of profits eliminated, to the extent of our economic interest in Telesat, on satellites we constructed for them while we owned SSL and on Loral’s sale to Telesat in April 2011 of its portion of the payload on the ViaSat-1 satellite and related assets. Non-refundable c ash distributions received from Telesat in excess of our initial investment and our share of cumulative equity in comprehensive income of Telesat, net of cash distributions received in prior periods, are recorded as equity in net income of Telesat (“Excess Cash Distribution”) since we have no obligation to provide future financial support to Telesat . We do not record additional equity in net income of Telesat until our share of Telesat’s future net income exceeds the Excess Cash Distribution. Equity in losses of affiliates is not recognized after the carrying value of an investment, including advances and loans, has been reduced to zero, unless guarantees or other funding obligations exist. The Company monitors its equity method investments for factors indicating other-than-temporary impairment. An impairment loss is recognized when there has been a loss in value of the affiliate that is other-than-temporary.  Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the amount of income (loss) reported for the period. Actual results could materially differ from estimates.  Significant estimates also included the allowances for doubtful accounts, income taxes, including the valuation of deferred tax assets, the fair value of liabilities indemnified and our pension liabilities.  Cash and Cash Equivalents  As of March 31, 2017, the Company had $273.8 million of cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include liquid investments, primarily money market funds, with original maturities of less than 90 days at the time of purchase. Management determines the appropriate classification of its investments at the time of purchase and at each balance sheet date.  Concentration of Credit Risk  Financial instruments which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and receivables. Our cash and cash equivalents are maintained with high-credit-quality financial institutions. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our cash and cash equivalents were invested primarily in several liquid Prime and Government AAA money market funds. The dispersion across funds reduces the exposure of a default at any one fund. As a result, management believes that its potential credit risks are minimal.  Fair Value Measurements  U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or the exit price that would be paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly transaction between market participants. U.S. GAAP also establishes a fair value hierarchy that gives the highest priority to observable inputs and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:  Level 1: Inputs represent a fair value that is derived from unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets at the measurement date.  Level 2: Inputs represent a fair value that is derived from quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities, and pricing inputs, other than quoted prices in active markets included in Level 1, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date.  Level 3: Inputs are generally unobservable and typically reflect management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The fair values are therefore determined using model-based techniques that include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models, and similar techniques.  Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value  The following table presents our assets and liabilities measured at fair value at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands):    March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  Assets  Cash and cash equivalents:  Money market funds $ 271,444 $ — $ — $ 35,514 $ — $ —  Other current assets:  Indemnification - Sale of SSL — — 2,410 — — 2,410  Liabilities  Long-term liabilities:  Indemnification - Globalstar do Brasil S.A. $ — $ — $ 338 $ — $ — $ 357  The carrying amount of cash equivalents approximates fair value as of each reporting date because of the short maturity of those instruments.  The Company did not have any non-financial assets or non-financial liabilities that were recognized or disclosed at fair value as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.  Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis  We review the carrying values of our equity method investments when events and circumstances warrant and consider all available evidence in evaluating when declines in fair value are other-than-temporary. The fair values of our investments are determined based on valuation techniques using the best information available and may include quoted market prices, market comparables and discounted cash flow projections. An impairment charge is recorded when the carrying amount of the investment exceeds its current fair value and is determined to be other-than-temporary.  The asset resulting from the indemnification of SSL is for certain pre-closing taxes and reflects the excess of payments since inception over the estimated liability, which was originally determined using the fair value objective approach. The estimated liability for indemnifications relating to Globalstar do Brasil S.A. (“GdB”), originally determined using expected value analysis, is net of payments since inception.  Contingencies  Contingencies by their nature relate to uncertainties that require management to exercise judgment both in assessing the likelihood that a liability has been incurred as well as in estimating the amount of potential loss, if any. We accrue for costs relating to litigation, claims and other contingent matters when such liabilities become probable and reasonably estimable. Such estimates may be based on advice from third parties or on management’s judgment, as appropriate. Actual amounts paid may differ from amounts estimated, and such differences will be charged to operations in the period in which the final determination of the liability is made.  Recent Accounting Pronouncements  In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standard s Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) No. 2017- 07, Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost . ASU No. 2017-07, as it applies to the Company, amended the presentation of net periodic pension and postretirement cost (i.e. net benefit cost). The new guidance requires the service cost component to be presented separate from the other components of net benefit cost. While service cost will be presented with other employee compensation costs within operations, the other components of net benefit cost, such as interest cost, amortization of prior service cost, and gains or losses, are required to be separately presented outside of operations, if income or loss from operations is presented. The guidance , to be applied retrospectively, is effective for the Company on January 1, 201 8 , with earlier application permitted only within the first interim period starting January 1, 2017 . The change in presentation of net benefit cost, which will be adopted on January 1, 2018, will not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements.  In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230) , a consensus of the FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force. The new guidance is intended to reduce diversity in practice in how certain transactions are classified in the statement of cash flows. The guidance relevant to the Company provides an accounting policy election for classifying distributions received from equity method investments. Such amounts can be classified using (i) a cumulative earnings approach, or (ii) a nature of distribution approach. Under the cumulative earnings approach, an investor compares the distributions received to such investor’s cumulative equity method earnings since inception. Any distributions received up to the amount of cumulative equity earnings are considered a return on investment and classified in operating activities. Any excess distributions are considered a return of investment and classified in investing activities. Alternatively, under the nature of distribution approach, an investor classifies the distributions based on the nature of activities of the investee that generated the distribution. If the necessary information is subsequently not available for an investee to determine the nature of the activities, the entity should use the cumulative earnings approach for that investee and report a change in accounting principle on a retrospective basis. The new guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018, with earlier application permitted in any interim or annual period, using a retrospective transition method. The Company adopted the new guidance on January 1, 2017 and made an accounting policy election to use the nature of distribution approach to classify distributions from equity method investmen ts on its statements of cash flows. As a result of adopting the new guidance, the entire distribution of $242.7 million received from Telesat in the first quarter of 2017 is classified in investing activities on the statement of cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 (see Note 5) .  In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. ASU No. 2016-09 simplified several aspects of the accounting for share-based payment transactions, including the income tax consequences. Under the new guidance, all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies related to share-based payment transactions are recognized in the current period as discrete adjustments to income tax expense or benefit in the income statement. Under previous U.S. GAAP, excess tax benefits were recognized in additional paid-in capital while tax deficiencies were recognized first as an offset to accumulated excess tax benefits, then as additional income tax expense. Also, under previous U.S. GAAP, excess tax benefits were not recognized until the related income tax deduction reduced income taxes payable. The Company adopted the new guidance on January 1, 2017 , and upon adoption previously unrecognized excess tax benefits of $4.7 million were recognized as a cumulative-effect adjustment t o increase retained earnings and deferred tax assets .  In February 2016, the FASB amended the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) by creating ASC Topic 842, Leases. ASC Topic 842 requires a lessee to record a right-of-use asset and a lease liability for all leases with a lease term greater than 12 months. The main difference between previous U.S. GAAP and ASC Topic 842 is the recognition under ASC 842 of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases under previous U.S. GAAP. The new guidance, effective for the Company on January 1, 2019, with earlier application permitted, is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.  Additional Cash Flow Information  The following represents non-cash activities and supplemental information to the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows (in thousands):     Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Non-cash operating items:  Equity in net income of affiliates $ (139,714) $ (46,494)  Deferred taxes 12,171 13,074  Depreciation and amortization 15 14  Amortization of prior service credit and actuarial loss 239 203  Net non-cash operating items – continuing operations $ (127,289) $ (33,203)  Supplemental information:  Interest paid – continuing operations $ 5 $ 5  Interest paid – discontinued operations $ 55 $ 265  Tax (refunds) payments, net – continuing operations $ (144) $ 60 

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	3. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss  The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, are as follows (in thousands):    Equity in Accumulated  Telesat Other Other  Postretirement Comprehensive Comprehensive  Benefits Loss Loss  Balance at January 1, 2016 $ (13,459) $ (15,239) $ (28,698)  Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification (1,209) 15,477 14,268  Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 594 — 594  Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income (615) 15,477 14,862  Balance at December 31, 2016 (14,074) 238 (13,836)   Other comprehensive loss before reclassification — (3,192) (3,192)  Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 154 — 154  Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 154 (3,192) (3,038)  Balance at March 31, 2017 $ (13,920) $ (2,954) $ (16,874)  The components of other comprehensive income and related tax effects are as follows (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Before-Tax Tax Net-of-Tax Before-Tax Tax Net-of-Tax  Amount Provision Amount Amount Provision Amount  Amortization of prior service credits and net actuarial loss $ 239 (a) $ (85) $ 154 $ 203 (a) $ (76) $ 127  Equity in Telesat other comprehensive (loss) income (4,929) 1,737 (3,192) 14,448 (b) (5,416) 9,032  Other comprehensive income $ (4,690) $ 1,652 $ (3,038) $ 14,651 $ (5,492) $ 9,159   (a) Reclassifications are included in general and administrative expenses. (b) I ncludes $20.8 million ( $13.5 million, net of tax) share in the equity of Telesat’s other comprehensive income that we could not record in 2015 ( see Note 5) . 

Other Current Assets

Other Current Assets	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Other Current Assets [Abstract]
Other Current Assets	4. Other Current Assets  Other current assets consists of (in thousands):     March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Indemnification receivable from SSL for pre-closing taxes (see Note 13) $ 2,410 $ 2,410  Due from affiliate 224 225  Prepaid expenses 637 192  Income taxes receivable 181 545  Other 367 111  $ 3,819 $ 3,483 

Investments in Affiliates

Investments in Affiliates	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Investments in Affiliates [Abstract]
Investments in Affiliates	5. Investments in Affiliates  Investments in affiliates consist of (in thousands):      March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Telesat $ — $ 107,950  Equity in net income of affiliates consists of (in thousands):     Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Telesat $ 139,714 $ 46,494   Telesat  As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we held a 62.7 % economic interest and a 32.7 % voting interest in Telesat. Our economic interest decreased from 62.8% to 62.7% in March 2016 when certain Telesat employees exercised share appreciation rights related to a total of 178,642 stock options granted under Telesat’s share-based compensation plan and received 129,400 non-voting participating preferred shares. Also in March 2016, a total of 1,253,477 vested stock options were repurchased at fair value from Telesat management personnel and other employees for total cash consideration of CAD 24.7 million, of which CAD 18.7 million was paid to management personnel.  We use the equity method of accounting for our majority economic interest in Telesat because we own 32.7 % of the voting stock and do not exercise control by other means to satisfy the U.S. GAAP requirement for treatment as a consolidated subsidiary. We have also concluded that Telesat is not a variable interest entity for which we are the primary beneficiary. Loral’s equity in net income or loss of Telesat is based on our proportionate share of Telesat’s results in accordance with U.S. GAAP and in U.S. dollars. Our proportionate share of Telesat’s net income or loss is based on our economic interest as our holdings consist of common stock and non-voting participating preferred shares that have all the rights of common stock with respect to dividends, return of capital and surplus distributions, but have no voting rights.  In the first quarter of 2017, we received $242.7 million in cash from Telesat, representing our share of an approximately $400 million distribution from Telesat to its shareholders and stock option holders. The cash distribution we received from Telesat exceeded our initial investment and our share of cumulative equity in comprehensive income of Telesat, net of cash distributions received from Telesat in prior periods. In following the equity method of accounting, as of March 31, 2017, our investment balance in Telesat has been reduced to zero , and approximately $103.8 million of the cash distribution was recorded as equity in net income of Telesat. We will not record additional equity in net income of Telesat until our share of Telesat’s future comprehensive income exceeds $103.8 million.  During the three months ended March 31, 2016, we recognized our $57.9 million share of Telesat’s net loss and our $20.8 million share of Telesat’s other comprehensive income that we were unable to recognize as of December 31, 2015 as our share of Telesat’s cumulative losses, together with cash distributions we received from Telesat, exceeded our recorded cumulative equity in net income of Telesat and initial investment.  On November 17, 2016, Telesat entered into amended senior secured credit facilities which provide for term loan borrowings of $2.43 billion maturing on November 17, 2023 and revolving credit borrowings of up to $200 million (or Canadian dollar equivalent) maturing on November 17, 2021 . Telesat also issued, through a private placement, $500 million of 8.875% senior notes which mature on November 17, 2024 .  In connection therewith, on November 17, 2016 , Telesat repaid all outstanding amounts under its former senior secured credit facilities and its 6.0% senior notes.  On February 1, 2017 , Telesat amended the senior secured credit facilities to effectively reprice the then outstanding term loan borrowings of $2.424 billion. The ability of Telesat to pay dividends or certain other restricted payments in cash to Loral is governed by applicable covenants in Telesat’s debt and shareholder agreements. Telesat’s credit agreement governing its senior secured credit facilities limits, among other items, Telesat’s ability to incur debt and make dividend payments if the total leverage ratio (“Total Leverage Ratio”) is above 4.50 :1.00, with certain exceptions. As of March 31, 2017, Telesat’s Total Leverage Ratio was 4.86 :1.00. Telesat is, however, permitted to pay annual consulting fees of $5 .0 million to Loral in cash (see Note 14).  The contribution of Loral Skynet, a wholly owned subsidiary of Loral prior to its contribution to Telesat in 2007, was recorded by Loral at the historical book value of our retained interest combined with the gain recognized on the contribution. However, the contribution was recorded by Telesat at fair value. Accordingly, the amortization of Telesat fair value adjustments applicable to the Loral Skynet assets and liabilities is proportionately eliminated in determining our share of the net income or losses of Telesat. Our equity in net income or loss of Telesat also reflects amortization of profits eliminated, to the extent of our economic interest in Telesat, on satellites we constructed for Telesat while we owned SSL and on Loral’s sale to Telesat in April 2011 of its portion of the payload on the ViaSat-1 satellite and related assets.  The following table presents summary financial data for Telesat in accordance with U.S. GAAP, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands):   Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Statement of Operations Data:  Revenues $ 177,111 $ 170,501  Operating expenses (41,672) (32,569)  Depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (48,497) (47,013)  Loss on disposition of long lived asset (18) (1,817)  Operating income 86,924 89,102  Interest expense (36,793) (35,202)  Foreign exchange gain 17,851 135,907  Loss on financial instruments (3,613) (12,617)  Other income 145 854  Income tax provision (9,838) (11,020)  Net income $ 54,676 $ 167,024     March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Balance Sheet Data:  Current assets $ 300,287 $ 678,361  Total assets 3,822,364 4,194,006  Current liabilities 136,822 154,173  Long-term debt, including current portion 2,844,622 2,877,950  Total liabilities 3,552,133 3,597,056  Shareholders’ equity 270,231 596,950  Telesat had capital expenditures of $34.3 million and $69.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  XTAR  We own 56 % of XTAR, a joint venture between us and Hisdesat Servicios Estrategicos, S.A. (“Hisdesat”) of Spain. We account for our ownership interest in XTAR under the equity method of accounting because we do not control certain of its significant operating decisions. We have also concluded that XTAR is not a variable interest entity for which we are the primary beneficiary. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the carrying value of our investment in XTAR was zero. Beginning January 1, 2016, we discontinued providing for our allocated share of XTAR’s net losses as our investment was reduced to zero and we have no commitment to provide further financial support to XTAR.  XTAR owns and operates an X-band satellite, XTAR-EUR, located at 29° E.L., which is designed to provide X-band communications services exclusively to United States, Spanish and allied government users throughout the satellite’s coverage area, including Europe, the Middle East and Asia. XTAR also leases 7.2 72MHz X-band transponders on the Spainsat satellite located at 30° W.L., owned by Hisdesat. These transponders, designated as XTAR-LANT, provide capacity to XTAR for additional X-band services and greater coverage and flexibility.  XTAR’s lease obligation to Hisdesat for the XTAR-LANT transponders (the “Transponder Service”) requires payment by XTAR up to a maximum amount of $ 28 million per year through the end of the useful life of the satellite which is estimated to be in 2021. Under the lease agreement (the “Spainsat Lease Agreement”), Hisdesat may also be entitled under certain circumstances to a share of the revenues generated on the Transponder Service. In September 2016, XTAR and Hisdesat amended the Spainsat Lease Agreement to, among other things, reduce for 2016 and 2017 the minimum capacity required to be leased by XTAR, and accordingly lease payments by XTAR for 2016 and 2017 were reduced from $26 million to $18.2 million. The 2016 reduction was retroactive to January 1, 2016. In January 2017, XTAR and Hisdesat again amended the Spainsat Lease Agreement to, among other things, reduce the minimum capacity required to be leased by XTAR for 2017, and accordingly lease payments by XTAR for 2017 were reduced to $9.5 million. In March 2009, XTAR entered into an agreement with Hisdesat pursuant to which the past due balance on XTAR-LANT transponders of $ 32.3 million as of December 31, 2008, together with a deferral of $ 6.7 million in payments due in 2009, is payable to Hisdesat over 12 years through annual payments of $ 5 million (the “Catch Up Payments”). XTAR has a right to prepay, at any time, all unpaid Catch Up Payments discounted at 9 %. Cumulative amounts paid to Hisdesat for Catch-Up Payments through March 31, 2017 were $ 29.2 million. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, XTAR has deferred payment of liabilities of $29.8 million and $28.8 million, respectively, for its lease obligation and Catch-Up Payments to Hisdesat. XTAR has also agreed that XTAR’s excess cash balance (as defined) will be applied towards making limited payments on future lease obligations, as well as payments of other amounts owed to Hisdesat, Telesat and Loral for services provided by them to XTAR. The ability of XTAR to pay dividends and management fees in cash to Loral is governed by XTAR’s operating agreement (see Note 14).  The following table presents summary financial data for XTAR for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands):   Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Statement of Operations Data:  Revenues $ 3,697 $ 5,878  Operating expenses (3,981) (8,255)  Depreciation and amortization (1,658) (2,192)  Operating loss (1,942) (4,569)  Net loss (3,273) (5,528)     March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Balance Sheet Data:  Current assets $ 5,713 $ 6,364  Total assets 33,698 36,008  Current liabilities 55,321 53,795  Total liabilities 75,601 75,395  Members’ equity (41,903) (39,387)  Other  As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Company held various indirect ownership interests in two foreign companies that currently serve as exclusive service providers for Globalstar service in Mexico and Russia. The Company accounts for these ownership interests using the equity method of accounting. Loral has written-off its investments in these companies, and, because we have no future funding requirements relating to these investments, there is no requirement for us to provide for our allocated share of these companies’ net losses.

Other Current Liabilities

Other Current Liabilities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Other Current Liabilities [Abstract]
Other Current Liabilities	6. Other Current Liabilities  Other current liabilities consists of (in thousands):   March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  SSL indemnification liability relating to ViaSat Suit settlement (see Note 13) $ — $ 2,801  Due to affiliate 127 —  Accrued professional fees 960 665  Pension and other postretirement liabilities 108 108  Accrued liabilities 193 198  $ 1,388 $ 3,772 

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Income Taxes	7. Income Taxes  The following summarizes our income tax provision on the loss from continuing operations (in thousands):     Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Total current income tax provision $ (53,893) $ (601)  Total deferred income tax provision (12,171) (13,074)  Income tax provision $ (66,064) $ (13,675)   Our income tax provision for each period is computed by applying an expected effective annual tax rate against the pre-tax results for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 (after adjusting for certain tax items that are discrete to each period). For the three months ended March 31, 2017, in accordance with authoritative guidance for accounting for income taxes in interim periods, we applied separate expected effective annual tax rates against our pre-tax loss from continuing operations and our equity in net income of Telesat, combining the results of both computations with the tax items discrete to the three months ended March 31, 2017, such as the income tax provision related to the Telesat distribution. For the three months ended March 31, 2016, we applied a single expected effective annual tax rate, which included tax expense on the equity income of Telesat, against our pre-tax loss from continuing operations for the three months. This change in how we calculated the estimate was made to improve the accuracy and consistency of the expected effective annual tax rate calculated in interim periods.  For the three months ended March 31, 2017, the current income tax provision primarily includes our anticipated income tax liability related to the cash distribution received from Telesat after use of available benefits from our AMT credit and net operating loss carryforwards and foreign tax credits from Telesat. Based upon our analysis, the amount of foreign tax credits generated from the cash distribution currently allowed to be utilized against our current tax liability will be limited, thereby resulting in a carryforward of unused foreign tax credits. Since, at the current time, sufficient positive evidence does not exist to support full recovery of the foreign tax credit carryforward, we recorded a full valuation allowance against this deferred tax asset during the three months ended March 31, 2017. We will continue to maintain this valuation allowance until sufficient positive evidence exists to support full or partial reversal. Such a reversal could be material in future periods.   Effective January 1, 2017, we adopted ASU No. 2016-09, and upon adoption previously unrecognized excess tax benefits of $4.7 million were recognized as a cumulative-effect adjustment to increase retained earnings and deferred tax assets (see Note 2).   Subsequent to the Sale, to the extent that profitability from operations is not sufficient to realize the benefit from our remaining net deferred tax assets, we would generate sufficient taxable income from the appreciated value of our Telesat investment, which currently has a nominal tax basis, in order to prevent federal net operating losses from expiring and realize the benefit of all remaining deferred tax assets.  The following summarizes amounts for uncertain tax positions (“UTPs”) included in our income tax provision (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Current provision for UTPs $ (675) $ (511)  Deferred benefit for UTPs 244 192  Tax provision for UTPs $ (431) $ (319)  As of March 31, 2017, we had unrecognized tax benefits relating to UTPs of $68 million. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to income taxes in income tax expense on a quarterly basis. As of March 31, 2017, we have accrued approximately $8.3 million and $6.0 million for the payment of potential tax-related interest and penalties, respectively.  With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S. federal, state or local income tax examinations by tax authorities for years prior to 2012. Earlier years related to certain foreign jurisdictions remain subject to examination. Various federal, state and foreign income tax returns are currently under examination. However, to the extent allowed by law, the tax authorities may have the right to examine prior periods where net operating losses were generated and carried forward, and make adjustments up to the amount of the net operating loss carryforward. While we intend to contest any future tax assessments for uncertain tax positions, no assurance can be provided that we would ultimately prevail. During the next twelve months, the statute of limitations for assessment of additional tax will expire with regard to certain UTPs related to our state income tax returns filed for 2012, potentially resulting in a $14.0 million reduction to our unrecognized tax benefits. Pursuant to the Purchase Agreement for the Sale, we are obligated to indemnify SSL for taxes related to periods prior to the closing of the transaction.  The following summarizes the changes to our liabilities for UTPs included in long-term liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Liabilities for UTPs:  Opening balance — January 1 $ 68,658 $ 69,511  Current provision for potential additional interest 675 511  Ending balance $ 69,333 $ 70,022  As of March 31, 2017, if our positions are sustained by the taxing authorities, the Company’s income tax provision from continuing operations would be reduced by approximately $30.6 million. Other than as described above, there were no significant changes to our UTPs during the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, and we do not anticipate any other significant changes to our unrecognized tax benefits during the next twelve months.

Long -Term Liabilities

Long -Term Liabilities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Long-Term Liabilities [Abstract]
Long-Term Liabilities	8. Long-Term Liabilities  Long-term liabilities consists of (in thousands):    March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Indemnification liabilities - other (see Note 13) 338 357  Deferred tax liability — 6  Liabilities for uncertain tax positions 69,333 68,658  Other 238 238  $ 69,909 $ 69,259 

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Stock-Based Compensation	9. Stock-Based Compensation  Stock Plans  The Loral amended and restated 2005 stock incentive plan (the “Stock Incentive Plan”) which allowed for the grant of several forms of stock-based compensation awards including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, stock bonuses and other stock-based awards, had a ten-year term and has expired. The Company granted 75,262 restricted stock units under the Stock Incentive Plan that do not expire and remained unconverted as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	10. Earnings Per Share  Telesat has awarded employee stock options, which, if exercised, would result in dilution of Loral’s economic ownership interest in Telesat from 62.7% to approximately 62.4 %.  The following table presents the dilutive impact of Telesat stock options on Loral’s reported income from continuing operations for the purpose of computing diluted earnings per share (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Income from continuing operations — basic $ 71,364 $ 30,819  Less: Adjustment for dilutive effect of Telesat stock options (185) (1,535)  Income from continuing operations — diluted $ 71,179 $ 29,284  Basic income per share is computed based upon the weighted average number of share of voting and non-voting common stock outstanding. The following is the computation of common shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Weighted average common shares outstanding 30,933 30,933  Unconverted restricted stock units 75 75  Common shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share 31,008 31,008 

Pensions and Other Employee Ben

Pensions and Other Employee Benefit Plans	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Pensions and Other Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Pensions and Other Employee Benefit Plans	11. Pensions and Other Employee Benefit Plans  The following tables provide the components of net periodic cost included in general and administrative expenses for our qualified retirement plan (the “Pension Benefits”) and health care and life insurance benefits for retired employees and dependents (the “Other Benefits”) for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands):     Pension Benefits Other Benefits  Three Months Ended March 31, Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016 2017 2016  Service cost $ 173 $ 142 $ — $ —  Interest cost 486 490 5 5  Expected return on plan assets (532) (512) — —  Amortization of net actuarial loss 232 196 1 1  Amortization of prior service credits — — 6 6  Net periodic cost $ 359 $ 316 $ 12 $ 12 

Financial Instruments, Derivati

Financial Instruments, Derivative Instruments and Hedging	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Financial Instruments, Derivative Instruments and Hedging [Abstract]
Financial Instruments, Derivative Instruments and Hedging	12. Financial Instruments, Derivative Instruments and Hedging  Financial Instruments  The carrying amount of cash equivalents approximates fair value because of the short maturity of those instruments.  Foreign Currency  We are subject to the risks associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. To limit this foreign exchange rate exposure, we attempt to denominate all contracts in U.S. dollars. Where appropriate, derivatives are used to minimize the risk of foreign exchange rate fluctuations to operating results and cash flows. We do not use derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.  Derivatives and Hedging Transactions  There were no derivative instruments as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	13. Commitments and Contingencies  Financial Matters  In the fourth quarter of 2012, we sold our former subsidiary, SSL, to MDA pursuant to the Purchase Agreement. Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, we are obligated to indemnify MDA and its affiliates from (1) liabilities with respect to certain pre-closing taxes; and (2) certain litigation costs and litigation damages relating to the ViaSat Suit. Our consolidated balance sheets include an indemnification refund receivable of $2.4 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. This receivable represents payments to date net of the estimated fair value of the liability for our indemnification for our obligation with respect to certain pre-closing taxes. The final amounts for indemnification claims related to pre-closing taxes have not yet been determined. Where appropriate, we intend vigorously to contest the underlying tax assessments, but there can be no assurance that we will be successful. Although no assurance can be provided, we do not believe that these tax-related matters will have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations. For a discussion of the ViaSat Suit and our indemnification obligations related thereto, see Legal Proceedings, below.  In connection with the sale in 2008 by Loral and certain of its subsidiaries and DASA Globalstar LLC to Globalstar Inc. of their respective interests in GdB, the Globalstar Brazilian service provider, Loral agreed to indemnify Globalstar Inc. and GdB for certain GdB pre-closing liabilities, primarily related to Brazilian taxes. Our condensed consolidated balance sheets include liabilities of $0.3 million and $0.4 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, for indemnification liabilities relating to the sale of GdB.  See Note 14 — Related Party Transactions — Transactions with Affiliates — Telesat for commitments and contingencies relating to our agreement to indemnify Telesat for certain liabilities.  Legal Proceedings ViaSat  Under the terms of the Purchase Agreement, Loral agreed to indemnify MDA and its affiliates from certain damages in the ViaSat Suit brought in 2012 by ViaSat against Loral and SSL . In September 2014 , Loral, SSL and ViaSat entered into a settlement agreement (“the Settlement Agreement”) pursuant to which the ViaSat Suit and an additional patent infringement and breach of contract lawsuit brought by ViaSat against SSL in September 2013 were settled. Loral was also released by MDA, MDA Holdings and SSL from indemnification claims relating to the ViaSat lawsuits under the Purchase Agreement.  The terms of the Settlement Agreement provide, among other things, for payment by Loral and SSL to ViaSat on a joint and several basis of $100 million, $40 million of which was paid in September 2014 in connection with entering into the Settlement Agreement, with the remaining $60 million payable with interest in ten equal quarterly installments of $6.9 million from October 15, 2014 through January 15, 2017 .  Following a mediation session held on December 1, 2014, Loral and MDA entered into an agreement titled “MDA/Loral Dispute Resolution” dated December 1, 2014 (the “Allocation Agreement”), pursuant to which Loral and MDA agreed that Loral will be responsible for $45 million, and MDA and SSL will be responsible for $55 million, of the $100 million litigation settlement with ViaSat. Pursuant to the Allocation Agreement, Loral paid ViaSat the final installment of $ 2.8 million in January 2017. Our condensed consolidated balance sheets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 include indemnification liabilities related to the ViaSat Settlement Agreement of nil and $2.8 million, respectively. Joint Venture Arbitration  In connection with a joint venture that serves as the service provider for Globalstar service in Russia in which Loral holds an indirect ownership interest, the Russian joint venture partner has commenced an arbitration against Loral in the London Court of International Arbitration seeking, among other things, to recover (i) losses it claims it has suffered in defending legal proceedings in Russian state courts brought by Loral seeking to collect certain payments owed to Loral and (ii) costs of the arbitration. Although no assurance can be provided, we do not believe that this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations.  Other Litigation  We are not currently subject to any legal proceedings that, if decided adversely, could have a material adverse effect on our financial position or results of operations. In the future, however, we may become subject to legal proceedings and claims, either asserted or unasserted, that may arise in the ordinary course of business or otherwise.

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	14. Related Party Tra nsactions  MHR Fund Management LLC  Mark H. Rachesky, President of MHR Fund Management LLC (“MHR”), and Janet T. Yeung, a principal and the General Counsel of MHR, are members of Loral’s board of directors. Hal Goldstein, a former managing principal of MHR, was a member of the Loral Board until May 2015.  Various funds affiliated with MHR and Dr. Rachesky held, as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, approximately 39.9% of the outstanding voting common stock and 58.4% of the combined outstanding voting and non-voting common stock of Loral.  Transactions with Affiliates  Telesat  As described in Note 5, we own 62.7% of Telesat and account for our ownership interest under the equity method of accounting.  In connection with the acquisition of our ownership interest in Telesat (which we refer to as the Telesat transaction), Loral and certain of its subsidiaries, our Canadian co-owner, Public Sector Pension Investment Board (“PSP”) and one of its subsidiaries, Telesat Canada and MHR entered into a Shareholders Agreement (the “Shareholders Agreement”). The Shareholders Agreement provides for, among other things, the manner in which the affairs of Telesat and its subsidiaries will be conducted and the relationships among the parties thereto and future shareholders of Telesat. The Shareholders Agreement also contains an agreement by Loral not to engage in a competing satellite communications business and agreements by the parties to the Shareholders Agreement not to solicit employees of Telesat or any of its subsidiaries. Additionally, the Shareholders Agreement details the matters requiring the approval of the shareholders of Telesat (including veto rights for Loral over certain extraordinary actions) and provides for preemptive rights for certain shareholders upon the issuance of certain capital shares of Telesat. The Shareholders Agreement also (i) restricts the ability of holders of certain shares of Telesat to transfer such shares unless certain conditions are met or approval of the transfer is granted by the directors of Telesat, (ii) provides for a right of first offer to certain Telesat shareholders if a holder of equity shares of Telesat wishes to sell any such shares to a third party and (iii) provides for, in certain circumstances, tag-along rights in favor of shareholders that are not affiliated with Loral if Loral sells equity shares and drag-along rights in favor of Loral in case Loral or its affiliate enters into an agreement to sell all of its Telesat equity securities.  In addition, the Shareholders Agreement provides for either PSP or Loral to initiate the process of conducting an initial public offering of the equity shares of Telesat (a “Telesat IPO”). In connection with our exploration of strategic initiatives to alter the status quo in our ownership of Telesat, in July 2015, we exercised our right under the Shareholders Agreement to require Telesat to conduct a Telesat IPO. Specifically, we requested that Telesat issue not more than 25 million newly issued shares of Telesat voting common stock. We also requested the termination of the Shareholders Agreement and the elimination of certain provisions in Telesat’s Articles of Incorporation, both of which we believe are important for a successful public offering. If those provisions are eliminated, an impediment to the conversion of our non-voting Telesat shares to voting shares would be eliminated. Termination or modification of the Shareholders Agreement and conversion of our non-voting shares to voting shares would enable us, after a Telesat IPO and subject to the receipt of any necessary regulatory approvals, to obtain majority voting control of Telesat. Telesat selected two co-managing underwriters and informed us that it will work to implement a Telesat IPO pending our agreement with PSP on the post-IPO governance matters. To date, no such agreement has been reached. There can be no assurance as to whether, when or on what terms a Telesat IPO, termination or modification of the Shareholders Agreement or any requested changes to Telesat’s Articles of Incorporation may occur or that any particular economic, tax, structural or other objectives or benefits with respect to a Telesat IPO will be achieved. If a Telesat IPO is expected to proceed under unfavorable terms or at an unfavorable price, we may withdraw our demand for a Telesat IPO.  Depending upon the outcome of discussions with PSP relating to Telesat strategic matters, we may assert certain claims against PSP for actions we believe violated our rights relating to the affairs of Telesat under the Telesat Shareholders Agreement and otherwise. In response to our claims, PSP has informed us that it believes that it may have claims against us, although we are not aware of the legal or factual basis for any such claims. We and PSP have agreed that, pending the outcome of our discussions, it would be beneficial to delay the commencement of any action relating to either party’s claims and have entered into an agreement (the “Tolling Agreement”) which preserves the parties’ rights to assert against one another legal claims relating to Telesat. We also included Telesat as a party to the Tolling Agreement because, as a technical matter of Canadian law and for purposes of potentially seeking equitable relief, Telesat may be a necessary party. There can be no assurance that if the Tolling Agreement lapses that we and PSP will not pursue legal claims against one another relating to Telesat. If we pursue claims against PSP, there can be no assurance that our claims will be successful or that the relief we seek will be granted. If PSP pursues claims against us, there can be no assurance that PSP will not prevail on its claims.  Under the Shareholders Agreement, in the event that, except in certain limited circumstances, either (i) ownership or control, directly or indirectly, by Dr. Rachesky of Loral’s voting stock falls below certain levels other than in connection with certain specified circumstances, including an acquisition by a Strategic Competitor (as defined in the Shareholders Agreement) or (ii) there is a change in the composition of a majority of the members of the Loral Board of Directors over a consecutive two-year period without the approval of the incumbent directors, Loral will lose its veto rights relating to certain extraordinary actions by Telesat and its subsidiaries. In addition, after either of these events, PSP will have certain rights to enable it to exit from its investment in Telesat, including a right to cause Telesat to conduct an initial public offering in which PSP’s shares would be the first shares offered or, if no such offering has occurred within one year due to a lack of cooperation from Loral or Telesat, to cause the sale of Telesat and to drag along the other shareholders in such sale, subject to Loral’s right to call PSP’s shares at fair market value.  The Shareholders Agreement provides for a board of directors of Telesat consisting of 10 directors, three nominated by Loral, three nominated by PSP and four independent directors to be selected by a nominating committee comprised of one PSP nominee, one nominee of Loral and one of the independent directors then in office. Each party to the Shareholders Agreement is obligated to vote all of its Telesat shares for the election of the directors nominated by the nominating committee. Pursuant to action by the board of directors taken on October 31, 2007, Dr. Rachesky, who is non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Loral, was appointed non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Telesat. In addition, Michael B. Targoff, Loral’s Vice Chairman, serves on the board of directors of Telesat.  On October 31, 2007 , Loral and Telesat entered into a consulting services agreement (the “Consulting Agreement”). Pursuant to the terms of the Consulting Agreement, Loral provides to Telesat certain non-exclusive consulting services in relation to the business of Loral Skynet which was transferred to Telesat as part of the Telesat transaction as well as with respect to certain aspects of the satellite communications business of Telesat. The term of the Consulting Agreement was renewed upon expiration of its initial term on October 31, 2014 and expires on October 31, 2021. In exchange for Loral’s services under the Consulting Agreement, Telesat pays Loral an annual fee of $ 5.0 million , payable quarterly in arrears on the last day of March, June, September and December of each year during the term of the Consulting Agreement. Our general and administrative expenses are net of income related to the Consulting Agreement of $ 1.25 million for each of the three ‑month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. For each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, Loral received payments in cash from Telesat, net of withholding taxes, of $1.2 million for consulting fees.  In connection with the acquisition of our ownership interest in Telesat in 2007, Loral retained the benefit of tax recoveries related to the transferred assets and indemnified Telesat (“Telesat Indemnification”) for certain liabilities, including Loral Skynet’s tax liabilities arising prior to January 1, 2007. The Telesat Indemnification includes certain tax disputes currently under review in various jurisdictions including Brazil. The Brazilian tax authorities challenged Loral Skynet’s historical characterization of its revenue generated in Brazil for the years 2003 to 2006. Telesat received and challenged, on Loral Skynet’s behalf, tax assessments from Brazil totaling approximately $2.3 million. The Company believes that Loral Skynet’s filing position will ultimately be sustained requiring no payment under the Telesat Indemnification. There can be no assurance that there will be no future claims under the Telesat Indemnification related to tax disputes.  Loral’s employees and retirees participate in certain welfare plans sponsored by Telesat. Loral pays Telesat an annual administrative fee of $0.1 million and reimburses Telesat for the plan costs attributable to Loral participants.  Loral, along with Telesat, PSP and 4440480 Canada Inc., an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Loral (the “Special Purchaser”), entered into grant agreements (the “Grant Agreements”) with certain executives of Telesat (each, a “Participant” and collectively, the “Participants”). Each of the Participants is or was, at the time, an executive of Telesat.  The Grant Agreements confirm grants of Telesat stock options (including tandem SAR rights) to the Participants and provide for certain rights, obligations and restrictions related to such stock options, which include, among other things: (w) the possible obligation of the Special Purchaser to purchase the shares in the place of Telesat should Telesat be prohibited by applicable law or under the terms of any credit agreement applicable to Telesat from purchasing such shares, or otherwise default on such purchase obligation, pursuant to the terms of the Grant Agreements; and (x) the obligation of the Special Purchaser to purchase shares upon exercise by Telesat of its call right under Telesat's Management Stock Incentive Plan in the event of a Participant’s termination of employment; and, in the case of certain executives, (y) the right of each such Participant to require the Special Purchaser or Loral to purchase a portion of the shares in Telesat owned by him in the event of exercise after termination of employment to cover taxes that are greater than the minimum withholding amount; and (z) the right of each such Participant to require Telesat to cause the Special Purchaser or Loral to purchase a portion of the shares in Telesat owned by him, or that are issuable to him under Telesat's Management Stock Incentive Plan at the relevant time, in the event that more than 90 % of Loral's common stock is acquired by an unaffiliated third party that does not also purchase all of PSP's and its affiliates' interest in Telesat.  The Grant Agreements further provide that, in the event the Special Purchaser is required to purchase shares, such shares, together with the obligation to pay for such shares, shall be transferred to a subsidiary of the Special Purchaser, which subsidiary shall be wound up into Telesat, with Telesat agreeing to the acquisition of such subsidiary by Telesat from the Special Purchaser for nominal consideration and with the purchase price for the shares being paid by Telesat within ten (10 ) business days after completion of the winding-up of such subsidiary into Telesat.  In the first quarter of 2017, Loral received a $242.7 million cash distribution from Telesat (see Note 5).  Other  As described in Note 6, we own 56% of XTAR, a joint venture between Loral and Hisdesat and account for our investment in XTAR under the equity method of accounting. SSL constructed XTAR’s satellite, which was successfully launched in February 2005. XTAR and Loral have entered into a management agreement whereby Loral provides general and specific services of a technical, financial and administrative nature to XTAR. For the services provided by Loral, XTAR, until December 31, 2013, was charged a quarterly management fee equal to 3.7% of XTAR’s quarterly gross revenues. Amounts due to Loral primarily due to the management agreement as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 were $ 6.8 million. Beginning in 2008, Loral and XTAR agreed to defer amounts owed to Loral under this agreement, and XTAR has agreed that its excess cash balance (as defined), will be applied at least quarterly towards repayment of receivables owed to Loral, as well as to Hisdesat and Telesat. No cash was received under this agreement for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, and we had an allowance of $6.6 million against receivables from XTAR as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016. Loral and Hisdesat have agreed to waive future management fees for an indefinite period starting January 1, 2014.  Consulting Agreement  On December 14, 2012 , Loral entered into a consulting agreement with Michael B. Targoff, Vice Chairman of the Company and former Chief Executive Officer and President. Pursuant to this agreement, Mr. Targoff is engaged as a part-time consultant to the Board to assist the Board with respect to the oversight of strategic matters relating to Telesat and XTAR. Under the agreement, Mr. Targoff receives consulting fees of $ 120,000 per month and reimburses the Company for certain expenses. For each of the three-month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, Mr. Targoff earned $360,000 in consulting fees and reimbursed Loral net expenses of $15,750 . 

Basis of Presentation (Policy)

Basis of Presentation (Policy)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations  On November 2, 2012, Loral completed the sale (the “Sale”) of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Space Systems/Loral, LLC (formerly known as Space Systems/Loral, Inc.) (“SSL”), to MDA Communications Holdings, Inc. (“MDA Holdings”), a subsidiary of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd. (“MDA”). Pursuant to the purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), dated as of June 26, 2012, as amended on October 30, 2012 and March 28, 2013, by and among Loral, SSL, MDA and MDA Holdings, Loral agreed to indemnify MDA and its affiliates from (1) liabilities with respect to certain pre-closing taxes; and (2) certain damages and legal expenses stemming from a lawsuit (the “ViaSat Suit”) brought in 2012 by ViaSat, Inc. (“ViaSat”) against Loral and SSL (see Note 13). Interest expense that is directly related to the Sale is classified as discontinued operations in the statements of operations and cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. 
Investments in Affiliates	Investments in Affiliates  Our ownership interest in Telesat is accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Income and losses of Telesat are recorded based on our economic interest. Our equity in net income or loss of Telesat also reflects amortization of profits eliminated, to the extent of our economic interest in Telesat, on satellites we constructed for them while we owned SSL and on Loral’s sale to Telesat in April 2011 of its portion of the payload on the ViaSat-1 satellite and related assets. Non-refundable c ash distributions received from Telesat in excess of our initial investment and our share of cumulative equity in comprehensive income of Telesat, net of cash distributions received in prior periods, are recorded as equity in net income of Telesat (“Excess Cash Distribution”) since we have no obligation to provide future financial support to Telesat . We do not record additional equity in net income of Telesat until our share of Telesat’s future net income exceeds the Excess Cash Distribution. Equity in losses of affiliates is not recognized after the carrying value of an investment, including advances and loans, has been reduced to zero, unless guarantees or other funding obligations exist. The Company monitors its equity method investments for factors indicating other-than-temporary impairment. An impairment loss is recognized when there has been a loss in value of the affiliate that is other-than-temporary.
Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements	Use of Estimates in Preparation of Financial Statements  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the amount of income (loss) reported for the period. Actual results could materially differ from estimates.  Significant estimates also included the allowances for doubtful accounts, income taxes, including the valuation of deferred tax assets, the fair value of liabilities indemnified and our pension liabilities.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents  As of March 31, 2017, the Company had $273.8 million of cash and cash equivalents. Cash and cash equivalents include liquid investments, primarily money market funds, with original maturities of less than 90 days at the time of purchase. Management determines the appropriate classification of its investments at the time of purchase and at each balance sheet date.
Concentration of Credit Risk	Concentration of Credit Risk  Financial instruments which potentially subject us to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and receivables. Our cash and cash equivalents are maintained with high-credit-quality financial institutions. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our cash and cash equivalents were invested primarily in several liquid Prime and Government AAA money market funds. The dispersion across funds reduces the exposure of a default at any one fund. As a result, management believes that its potential credit risks are minimal.
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements  U.S. GAAP defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or the exit price that would be paid to transfer a liability in the principal or most advantageous market in an orderly transaction between market participants. U.S. GAAP also establishes a fair value hierarchy that gives the highest priority to observable inputs and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:  Level 1: Inputs represent a fair value that is derived from unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities traded in active markets at the measurement date.  Level 2: Inputs represent a fair value that is derived from quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active, model-based valuation techniques for which all significant assumptions are observable in the market or can be corroborated by observable market data for substantially the full term of the assets or liabilities, and pricing inputs, other than quoted prices in active markets included in Level 1, which are either directly or indirectly observable as of the reporting date.  Level 3: Inputs are generally unobservable and typically reflect management’s estimates of assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The fair values are therefore determined using model-based techniques that include option pricing models, discounted cash flow models, and similar techniques.  Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value  The following table presents our assets and liabilities measured at fair value at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands):    March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  Assets  Cash and cash equivalents:  Money market funds $ 271,444 $ — $ — $ 35,514 $ — $ —  Other current assets:  Indemnification - Sale of SSL — — 2,410 — — 2,410  Liabilities  Long-term liabilities:  Indemnification - Globalstar do Brasil S.A. $ — $ — $ 338 $ — $ — $ 357  The carrying amount of cash equivalents approximates fair value as of each reporting date because of the short maturity of those instruments.  The Company did not have any non-financial assets or non-financial liabilities that were recognized or disclosed at fair value as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.  Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-recurring Basis  We review the carrying values of our equity method investments when events and circumstances warrant and consider all available evidence in evaluating when declines in fair value are other-than-temporary. The fair values of our investments are determined based on valuation techniques using the best information available and may include quoted market prices, market comparables and discounted cash flow projections. An impairment charge is recorded when the carrying amount of the investment exceeds its current fair value and is determined to be other-than-temporary.  The asset resulting from the indemnification of SSL is for certain pre-closing taxes and reflects the excess of payments since inception over the estimated liability, which was originally determined using the fair value objective approach. The estimated liability for indemnifications relating to Globalstar do Brasil S.A. (“GdB”), originally determined using expected value analysis, is net of payments since inception. 
Contingencies	Contingencies  Contingencies by their nature relate to uncertainties that require management to exercise judgment both in assessing the likelihood that a liability has been incurred as well as in estimating the amount of potential loss, if any. We accrue for costs relating to litigation, claims and other contingent matters when such liabilities become probable and reasonably estimable. Such estimates may be based on advice from third parties or on management’s judgment, as appropriate. Actual amounts paid may differ from amounts estimated, and such differences will be charged to operations in the period in which the final determination of the liability is made.

Basis of Presentation (Tables)

Basis of Presentation (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis	The following table presents our assets and liabilities measured at fair value at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands):    March 31, 2017 December 31, 2016  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3  Assets  Cash and cash equivalents:  Money market funds $ 271,444 $ — $ — $ 35,514 $ — $ —  Other current assets:  Indemnification - Sale of SSL — — 2,410 — — 2,410  Liabilities  Long-term liabilities:  Indemnification - Globalstar do Brasil S.A. $ — $ — $ 338 $ — $ — $ 357 
Additional Cash Flow Information	The following represents non-cash activities and supplemental information to the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows (in thousands):     Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Non-cash operating items:  Equity in net income of affiliates $ (139,714) $ (46,494)  Deferred taxes 12,171 13,074  Depreciation and amortization 15 14  Amortization of prior service credit and actuarial loss 239 203  Net non-cash operating items – continuing operations $ (127,289) $ (33,203)  Supplemental information:  Interest paid – continuing operations $ 5 $ 5  Interest paid – discontinued operations $ 55 $ 265  Tax (refunds) payments, net – continuing operations $ (144) $ 60 

Accumulated Other Comprehensi23

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, are as follows (in thousands):    Equity in Accumulated  Telesat Other Other  Postretirement Comprehensive Comprehensive  Benefits Loss Loss  Balance at January 1, 2016 $ (13,459) $ (15,239) $ (28,698)  Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassification (1,209) 15,477 14,268  Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 594 — 594  Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income (615) 15,477 14,862  Balance at December 31, 2016 (14,074) 238 (13,836)   Other comprehensive loss before reclassification — (3,192) (3,192)  Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 154 — 154  Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 154 (3,192) (3,038)  Balance at March 31, 2017 $ (13,920) $ (2,954) $ (16,874) 
Schedule of Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Related Income Tax Effects	The components of other comprehensive income and related tax effects are as follows (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Before-Tax Tax Net-of-Tax Before-Tax Tax Net-of-Tax  Amount Provision Amount Amount Provision Amount  Amortization of prior service credits and net actuarial loss $ 239 (a) $ (85) $ 154 $ 203 (a) $ (76) $ 127  Equity in Telesat other comprehensive (loss) income (4,929) 1,737 (3,192) 14,448 (b) (5,416) 9,032  Other comprehensive income $ (4,690) $ 1,652 $ (3,038) $ 14,651 $ (5,492) $ 9,159   (a) Reclassifications are included in general and administrative expenses. (b) I ncludes $20.8 million ( $13.5 million, net of tax) share in the equity of Telesat’s other comprehensive income that we could not record in 2015 ( see Note 5) .

Other Current Assets (Tables)

Other Current Assets (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Other Current Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Current Assets	Other current assets consists of (in thousands):     March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Indemnification receivable from SSL for pre-closing taxes (see Note 13) $ 2,410 $ 2,410  Due from affiliate 224 225  Prepaid expenses 637 192  Income taxes receivable 181 545  Other 367 111  $ 3,819 $ 3,483 

Investments in Affiliates (Tabl

Investments in Affiliates (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Investments in Affiliates	Investments in affiliates consist of (in thousands):      March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Telesat $ — $ 107,950 
Equity in Net (Loss) Income of Affiliates	Equity in net income of affiliates consists of (in thousands):     Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Telesat $ 139,714 $ 46,494 
Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Summary Financial Data, Equity Method Investment	The following table presents summary financial data for Telesat in accordance with U.S. GAAP, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands):   Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Statement of Operations Data:  Revenues $ 177,111 $ 170,501  Operating expenses (41,672) (32,569)  Depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (48,497) (47,013)  Loss on disposition of long lived asset (18) (1,817)  Operating income 86,924 89,102  Interest expense (36,793) (35,202)  Foreign exchange gain 17,851 135,907  Loss on financial instruments (3,613) (12,617)  Other income 145 854  Income tax provision (9,838) (11,020)  Net income $ 54,676 $ 167,024     March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Balance Sheet Data:  Current assets $ 300,287 $ 678,361  Total assets 3,822,364 4,194,006  Current liabilities 136,822 154,173  Long-term debt, including current portion 2,844,622 2,877,950  Total liabilities 3,552,133 3,597,056  Shareholders’ equity 270,231 596,950 
XTAR, LLC [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Summary Financial Data, Equity Method Investment	The following table presents summary financial data for XTAR for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (in thousands):   Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Statement of Operations Data:  Revenues $ 3,697 $ 5,878  Operating expenses (3,981) (8,255)  Depreciation and amortization (1,658) (2,192)  Operating loss (1,942) (4,569)  Net loss (3,273) (5,528)     March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Balance Sheet Data:  Current assets $ 5,713 $ 6,364  Total assets 33,698 36,008  Current liabilities 55,321 53,795  Total liabilities 75,601 75,395  Members’ equity (41,903) (39,387) 

Other Current Liabilities (Tabl

Other Current Liabilities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Other Current Liabilities [Abstract]
Schedule of Other Current Liabilities	Other current liabilities consists of (in thousands):   March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  SSL indemnification liability relating to ViaSat Suit settlement (see Note 13) $ — $ 2,801  Due to affiliate 127 —  Accrued professional fees 960 665  Pension and other postretirement liabilities 108 108  Accrued liabilities 193 198  $ 1,388 $ 3,772 

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Summary of Income Tax Benefit (Provision)	The following summarizes our income tax provision on the loss from continuing operations (in thousands):     Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Total current income tax provision $ (53,893) $ (601)  Total deferred income tax provision (12,171) (13,074)  Income tax provision $ (66,064) $ (13,675) 
Summary of Uncertain Tax Positions Included in Income Tax Provision	 The following summarizes amounts for uncertain tax positions (“UTPs”) included in our income tax provision (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Current provision for UTPs $ (675) $ (511)  Deferred benefit for UTPs 244 192  Tax provision for UTPs $ (431) $ (319) 
Summary of Changes to Company's Liabilities for UTPs	The following summarizes the changes to our liabilities for UTPs included in long-term liabilities in the condensed consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Liabilities for UTPs:  Opening balance — January 1 $ 68,658 $ 69,511  Current provision for potential additional interest 675 511  Ending balance $ 69,333 $ 70,022 

Long-Term Liabilities (Tables)

Long-Term Liabilities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Long-Term Liabilities [Abstract]
Schedule of Long Term Liabilities	Long-term liabilities consists of (in thousands):    March 31, December 31,  2017 2016  Indemnification liabilities - other (see Note 13) 338 357  Deferred tax liability — 6  Liabilities for uncertain tax positions 69,333 68,658  Other 238 238  $ 69,909 $ 69,259 

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Dilutive Impact of Equity Method Investee Stock Options	The following table presents the dilutive impact of Telesat stock options on Loral’s reported income from continuing operations for the purpose of computing diluted earnings per share (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Income from continuing operations — basic $ 71,364 $ 30,819  Less: Adjustment for dilutive effect of Telesat stock options (185) (1,535)  Income from continuing operations — diluted $ 71,179 $ 29,284 
Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares for Calculating Diluted Earnings per Share	The following is the computation of common shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share (in thousands):    Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016  Weighted average common shares outstanding 30,933 30,933  Unconverted restricted stock units 75 75  Common shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share 31,008 31,008 

Pensions and Other Employee B30

Pensions and Other Employee Benefit Plans (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Pensions and Other Employee Benefit Plans [Abstract]
Components of Net Periodic Cost	The following tables provide the components of net periodic cost included in general and administrative expenses for our qualified retirement plan (the “Pension Benefits”) and health care and life insurance benefits for retired employees and dependents (the “Other Benefits”) for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 (in thousands):     Pension Benefits Other Benefits  Three Months Ended March 31, Three Months Ended March 31,  2017 2016 2017 2016  Service cost $ 173 $ 142 $ — $ —  Interest cost 486 490 5 5  Expected return on plan assets (532) (512) — —  Amortization of net actuarial loss 232 196 1 1  Amortization of prior service credits — — 6 6  Net periodic cost $ 359 $ 316 $ 12 $ 12 

Organization and Principal Bu31

Organization and Principal Business (Narrative) (Details) - Telesat Holdco [Member]	Mar. 31, 2017
Organization and Principal Business [Line Items]
Economic interest in affiliates	62.70%
Voting interest in affiliate	32.70%

Basis of Presentation (Narrativ

Basis of Presentation (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 273,797	$ 37,458	$ 51,670	$ 58,853
Distribution received from affiliate	242,735
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	4,700
Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Distribution received from affiliate	$ 242,700

Basis of Presentation (Assets a

Basis of Presentation (Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets and Liabilities
Indemnification receivable from SS/L for pre-closing taxes	$ 2,410	$ 2,410
Money Market Funds [Member] | Level 1 [Member]
Assets and Liabilities
Cash equivalents	271,444	35,514
Money Market Funds [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Assets and Liabilities
Cash equivalents
Sale of SS/L, Nov. 02, 2012 [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Assets and Liabilities
Indemnification receivable from SS/L for pre-closing taxes
Sale of SS/L, Nov. 02, 2012 [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Assets and Liabilities
Indemnification receivable from SS/L for pre-closing taxes	2,410	2,410
Globalstar do Brasil S.A. [Member] | Level 2 [Member]
Assets and Liabilities
Indemnification liabilities
Globalstar do Brasil S.A. [Member] | Level 3 [Member]
Assets and Liabilities
Indemnification liabilities	$ 338	$ 357

Basis of Presentation (Addition

Basis of Presentation (Additional Cash Flow Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Non-cash operating items:
Equity in net (income) loss of affiliates	$ (139,714)	$ (46,494)
Deferred taxes	12,171	13,074
Depreciation and amortization	15	14
Amortization of prior service credit and actuarial (gain) loss	239	203
Net non-cash operating items - continuing operations	(127,289)	(33,203)
Continuing Operations [Member]
Supplemental information:
Interest paid	5	5
Tax payments (refunds)	(144)	60
Discontinued Operations [Member]
Supplemental information:
Interest paid	$ 55	$ 265

Accumulated Other Comprehensi35

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), beginning balance	$ (13,836)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(3,038)	$ 9,159
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), ending balance	(16,874)		$ (13,836)
Postretirement Benefits [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), beginning balance	(14,074)	(13,459)	(13,459)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification			(1,209)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	154		594
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	154		(615)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), ending balance	(13,920)		(14,074)
Proportionate Share of Telesat Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), beginning balance	238	(15,239)	(15,239)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	(3,192)		15,477
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(3,192)		15,477
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), ending balance	(2,954)		238
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member]
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), beginning balance	(13,836)	$ (28,698)	(28,698)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification	(3,192)		14,268
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	154		594
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)	(3,038)		14,862
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), ending balance	$ (16,874)		$ (13,836)

Accumulated Other Comprehensi36

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Components of Other Comprehensive Income and Related Tax Effects) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Amortization of prior service credits and net actuarial loss, Before-Tax Amount	[1]	$ 239	$ 203
Proportionate share of Telesat other comprehensive income (loss), Before-Tax Amount		(4,929)	14,448	[2]
Other comprehensive income (loss), Before-Tax Amount		(4,690)	14,651
Amortization of prior service credits and net actuarial loss, Tax (Provision) Benefit		(85)	(76)
Proportionate share of Telesat other comprehensive income (loss), Tax (Provision) Benefit		1,737	(5,416)
Other comprehensive income, Tax (Provision) Benefit		1,652	(5,492)
Amortization of prior service credits and net actuarial gain (loss), Net-of-Tax Amount		154	127
Proportionate share of Telesat other comprehensive income (loss), Net-of-Tax Amount		(3,192)	9,032
Other comprehensive income (loss), Net-of-Tax Amount		$ (3,038)	9,159
Equity method OCI previously suspended recovered			20,800
Equity method OCI previously suspended recovered, net of tax			$ 13,500
[1]	Reclassifications are included in general and administrative expenses. I
[2]	Includes $20.8 million ($13.5 million, net of tax) share in the equity of Telesat's other comprehensive income that we could not record in 2015 (see Note 5)

Other Current Assets (Schedule

Other Current Assets (Schedule of Other Current Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Current Assets [Abstract]
Indemnification receivable from SS/L for pre-closing taxes	$ 2,410	$ 2,410
Due from affiliates	224	225
Prepaid expenses	637	192
Income taxes receivable	181	545
Other	367	111
Total other current assets	$ 3,819	$ 3,483

Investments in Affiliates (Narr

Investments in Affiliates (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands, CAD in Millions	Feb. 01, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016CADshares	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)shares		Mar. 31, 2009USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2009USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2008USD ($)
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates		$ 139,714		$ 46,494
Net income (loss)		71,359		30,686
Other Comprehensive Income Proportionate Share Equity Method Investee Before Tax Portion Attributable To Parent		(4,929)		14,448	[1]
Other Comprehensive Income Proportionate Share Equity Method Investee Net Of Tax Portion Attributable To Parent		(3,192)		9,032
Distribution received from affiliate		$ 242,735
Investments in affiliates								$ 107,950
Equity method OCI previously suspended recovered				$ 20,800
Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Economic interest in affiliates		62.70%							62.80%
Voting interest in affiliate		32.70%
Share appreciation rights exercised by Telesat employees | shares			178,642	178,642
Non-voting participating preferred stock issued to Telesat employees | shares			129,400	129,400
Equity method investee, stock options buy back, shares | shares			1,253,477	1,253,477
Equity method investee, stock options buy back, amount | CAD			CAD 24.7
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates		$ 139,714		$ 46,494
Distribution received from affiliate		242,700
Distributions declared to shareholders, option holders and certain employees		400,000
Investments in affiliates		0						107,950
Equity method investment, excess cash distribution recognized as equity income		103,800
Equity method investment, excess cash distribution recoverable from future equity in investee earnings		103,800
Equity method losses previously suspended recovered				57,900
Equity method OCI previously suspended recovered				20,800
Consulting fees payable in cash		5,000
Capital expenditures		$ 34,300		$ 69,200
XTAR, LLC [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership interest		56.00%
Maximum lease obligation, annual							$ 28,000	28,000
Lease obligation, Annual							26,000	26,000
Amended lease obligation, annual							$ 9,500	18,200
Lease agreement, past due											$ 32,300
Lease agreement, deferred amount										$ 6,700
Repayment term past due and deferred lease obligation, years						12 years
Deferred lease obligation, annual payment						$ 5,000
Discount rate for prepayment of restructured past due and deferred lease obligation						9.00%
Cumulative payments of restructured past due and deferred lease obligation		$ 29,200
Equity method investment, investee past due liability		$ 29,800						$ 28,800
6% Senior Notes [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Repurchase Date		Nov. 17, 2016
Senior notes issued		$ 0
Senior Notes 8.875% [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Interest on notes		8.875%
Indenture maturity date		Nov. 17, 2024
Senior notes issued		$ 500,000
Equity Method Investment Term Loan [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Term loan borrowings		$ 2,430,000
Indenture maturity date		Nov. 17, 2023
Equity Method Investment Revolving Credit [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Revolving credit borrowings		$ 200,000
Indenture maturity date		Nov. 17, 2021
Equity Method Investment Senior Secured Credit Facility [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Minimum Total Leverage Ratio		4.50
Actual Total Leverage Ratio to incur debt and make payments		4.86
Equity Method Investment Senior Secured Facilities Repriced [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Term loan borrowings	$ 2,424,000
Debt instrument amendment date	Feb. 1, 2017
Management [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Investments in and Advances to Affiliates [Line Items]
Equity method investee, stock options buy back, amount | CAD			CAD 18.7
[1]	Includes $20.8 million ($13.5 million, net of tax) share in the equity of Telesat's other comprehensive income that we could not record in 2015 (see Note 5)

Investments in Affiliates (Inve

Investments in Affiliates (Investments in Affiliates) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investments in affiliates		$ 107,950
Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investments in affiliates	$ 0	$ 107,950

Investments in Affiliates (Equi

Investments in Affiliates (Equity in Net Income (Losses) of Affiliates) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates	$ 139,714	$ 46,494
Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Equity in net income (loss) of affiliates	$ 139,714	$ 46,494

Investments in Affiliates (Eq41

Investments in Affiliates (Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Data) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Summary Financial Data:
Revenues	$ 177,111	$ 170,501
Operating expenses	(41,672)	(32,569)
Depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation	(48,497)	(47,013)
Gain (loss) on disposition of long lived asset	(18)	(1,817)
Operating income (loss)	86,924	89,102
Interest expense	(36,793)	(35,202)
Foreign exchange gains (losses)	17,851	135,907
Gains (losses) on financial instruments	(3,613)	(12,617)
Other income (expense)	145	854
Income tax provision	(9,838)	(11,020)
Net income (loss)	54,676	167,024
Current assets	300,287		$ 678,361
Total assets	3,822,364		4,194,006
Current liabilities	136,822		154,173
Long-term debt, including current portion	2,844,622		2,877,950
Total liabilities	3,552,133		3,597,056
Shareholders' equity/Members' equity	270,231		596,950
XTAR, LLC [Member]
Summary Financial Data:
Revenues	3,697	5,878
Operating expenses	(3,981)	(8,255)
Depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation	(1,658)	(2,192)
Operating income (loss)	(1,942)	(4,569)
Net income (loss)	(3,273)	$ (5,528)
Current assets	5,713		6,364
Total assets	33,698		36,008
Current liabilities	55,321		53,795
Total liabilities	75,601		75,395
Shareholders' equity/Members' equity	$ (41,903)		$ (39,387)

Other Current Liabilities (Sche

Other Current Liabilities (Schedule of Other Current Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Due to affiliate	$ 127
Accrued professional fees	960	$ 665
Pension and other postretirement liabilities	108	108
Accrued liabilities	193	198
Other current liabilities, total	$ 1,388	3,772
ViaSat Lawsuit, Sep. 2014 [Member]
Indemnification liabilities		$ 2,801

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Detai

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) $ in Millions	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption	$ 4.7
Unrecognized tax benefits relating to UTPs	68
Unrecognized tax benefits, interest on income taxes accrued	8.3
Unrecognized tax benefits, income tax penalties accrued	6
Potential change in unrecognized tax benefits during next twelve months	14
Unrecognized tax benefits that would reduce the income tax provision	$ 30.6

Income Taxes (Summary of Income

Income Taxes (Summary of Income Tax Benefit (Provision)) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Total current income tax (provision) benefit	$ (53,893)	$ (601)
Total deferred income tax (provision) benefit	(12,171)	(13,074)
Income tax (provision) benefit	$ (66,064)	$ (13,675)

Income Taxes (Summary of Uncert

Income Taxes (Summary of Uncertain Tax Positions Included in Income Tax Provision) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Current (provision) benefit for UTPs	$ (675)	$ (511)
Deferred benefit (provision) for UTPs	244	192
Tax (provision) benefit for UTPs	$ (431)	$ (319)

Income Taxes (Summary of Change

Income Taxes (Summary of Changes to Company's Liabilities For UTPs) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Income Taxes [Abstract]
Opening balance - January 1	$ 68,658	$ 69,511
Potential additional interest	675	511
Ending balance	$ 69,333	$ 70,022

Long-Term Liabilities (Schedule

Long-Term Liabilities (Schedule of Long-Term Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Long-Term Liabilities [Abstract]
Indemnification liabilities	$ 338	$ 357
Deferred tax liability		6
Liabilities for uncertain tax positions	69,333	68,658	$ 70,022	$ 69,511
Other	238	238
Long term liabilities	$ 69,909	$ 69,259

Stock-Based Compensation (Narra

Stock-Based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) - shares	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Stock-Based Compensation [Abstract]
Unconverted restricted stock units	75,262	75,262

Earnings Per Share (Narrative)

Earnings Per Share (Narrative) (Details) - Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017
Equity Method Investment Economic Ownership Percentage	62.70%
Percentage of economic interest as result of dilution upon exercise of stock options	62.40%

Earnings Per Share (Schedule of

Earnings Per Share (Schedule of Dilutive Impact of Equity Method Investee Stock Options) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Income (loss) from continuing operations - basic	$ 71,364	$ 30,819
Less: Adjustment for dilutive effect of Telesat stock options	(185)	(1,535)
Income (loss) from continuing operations - diluted	$ 71,179	$ 29,284

Earnings Per Share (Schedule 51

Earnings Per Share (Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares for Calculating Diluted Earnings Per Share) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Weighted average common shares outstanding	30,933	30,933
Unconverted restricted stock units	75	75
Common shares outstanding for diluted earnings per share	31,008	31,008

Pensions and Other Employee B52

Pensions and Other Employee Benefits Plans (Components of Net Periodic Cost) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016
Pension Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Service cost	$ 173	$ 142
Interest cost	486	490
Expected return on plan assets	(532)	(512)
Amortization of net actuarial loss	232	196
Net periodic cost	359	316
Other Benefits [Member]
Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items]
Interest cost	5	5
Amortization of net actuarial loss	1	1
Amortization of prior service credits	6	6
Net periodic cost	$ 12	$ 12

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2017USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)
Contingencies And Commitments [Line Items]
Indemnification receivable from SS/L for pre-closing taxes			$ 2,410	$ 2,410
Globalstar do Brasil S.A. [Member]
Contingencies And Commitments [Line Items]
Loss Contingency Accrual			300	400
ViaSat Lawsuit, Sep. 2014 [Member] | Sale of SS/L, Nov. 02, 2012 [Member]
Contingencies And Commitments [Line Items]
Settlement agreement date		September 2,014
Settlement agreement, plaintiff's name		ViaSat
Settlement agreement, counterparty's name		SSL
Lawsuit settlement amount, joint & several liability		$ 100,000
Lawsuit settlement initial payment, joint & several liability		40,000
Lawsuit settlement future payments, joint & several liability		$ 60,000
Lawsuit settlement installment number, joint and several liability		10
Lawsuit settlement installment frequency, joint & several liability		quarterly
Lawsuit settlement amount of each installment, joint & several liability		$ 6,900
Lawsuit settlement installment start date, joint & several liability		Oct. 15, 2014
Lawsuit settlement installment end date, joint & several liability		Jan. 15, 2017
Obligation with joint and several liability arrangement, amount recognized					$ 45,000
Obligation with joint and several liability amount payable by counterparty					$ 55,000
Payments for legal settlements	$ 2,800
Lawsuit settlement obligation carrying value			$ 0	$ 2,800

Related Party Transactions (Nar

Related Party Transactions (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2009
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Distribution received from affiliate	$ 242,735,000
Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Economic interest in affiliates	62.70%
Common stock, percentage acquired by an unaffiliated third party	90.00%
Duration for shares to be paid, days	10 days
Distribution received from affiliate	$ 242,700,000
Xtar [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Percentage of ownership interest	56.00%
MHR Funds [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Percentage of outstanding voting common stock	39.90%			39.90%
Percentage of combined ownership of voting and non-voting common stock	58.40%			58.40%
Transaction, Consulting Agreement [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related party transaction, date	Oct. 31, 2007
Transaction income during the period	$ 1,250,000	$ 1,250,000
Transaction payments received during the period	$ 1,200,000	1,200,000
Transaction, Consulting Agreement [Member] | Director [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Related party transaction, date	Dec. 14, 2012
Transaction fee	$ 360,000	360,000
Transaction income during the period	15,750	$ 15,750
Transaction, Management Agreement [Member] | Xtar [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, noncurrent	6,600,000			$ 6,600,000
Amounts due under the transaction - Noncurrent	6,800,000			$ 6,800,000
Management fee charged as a percentage of revenue			3.70%
Annual Fee [Member] | Transaction, Consulting Agreement [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Transaction fee	5,000,000
Annual Fee [Member] | Transaction, Welfare Plan Participation Administrative Fee [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Transaction fee	100,000
Monthly Fee [Member] | Transaction, Consulting Agreement [Member] | Director [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Transaction fee	$ 120,000
Years 2003 to 2006 [Member] | Telesat Holdings Inc [Member] | Brazil [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Tax assessment imposed audit					$ 2,300,000