The Federal Communications Commission has approved Amazon Leo's $11.5 billion acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar, marking a significant step in Amazon’s strategy to develop a large-scale satellite broadband network.
- FCC approval enabled $11.5B Amazon Leo-Globalstar deal
- Amazon targets 3,200 satellites by 2029 for satellite broadband
- Acquisition includes Apple’s 20% Globalstar stake and spectrum
What happened
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved Amazon Leo’s acquisition of Globalstar for $11.5 billion. This deal adds Globalstar’s two dozen satellites and its mobile-satellite spectrum to Amazon’s existing constellation, which already includes over 200 satellites. Amazon Leo has launched more than 300 satellites since April 2025 as part of its planned deployment of roughly 3,200 satellites in low Earth orbit by 2029.
Why it matters
This acquisition marks a major move by Amazon to enter and scale in the satellite broadband market, directly competing with Elon Musk’s SpaceX Starlink, which operates the largest existing constellation with more than 11,000 satellites. Amazon Leo’s expanded network and control over valuable mobile-satellite spectrum position it to offer next-generation fixed and mobile satellite internet services, including direct-to-device connections.
The deal, backed by over $10 billion of Amazon’s committed investment in the Leo network, also aligns with the FCC’s efforts to promote competition and expand broadband access. Improved satellite-based broadband can enhance connectivity for underserved and rural communities, supporting faster and more reliable internet access nationwide.
What to watch next
Amazon Leo aims to launch commercial satellite services by the end of 2026, leveraging both its own satellite constellation and Globalstar’s assets. The FCC is soon expected to hold a vote to advance a new wireless spectrum auction designed to boost direct-to-device satellite technologies, which allow smartphones and other devices to connect directly to satellites without intermediary infrastructure.
Observers will be monitoring Amazon’s market entry impact on satellite broadband prices, competition dynamics with Starlink, and the ongoing development of satellite technology partnerships, including those with Apple. The expansion of Globalstar’s network from two dozen to potentially 54 satellites under the Apple-supported plan is also anticipated to enhance service coverage and reliability.