5 billion acquisition of Globalstar Inc. (NASDAQ:GSAT) on Tuesday, strengthening the company’s satellite communications business as it prepares to challenge Elon Musk’s Space Exploration Technologies Corp.
(NASDAQ:SPCX) Starlink in broadband and direct-to-device connectivity. FCC Backs Amazon’s Satellite Expansion Plans Amazon Leo has launched nearly 400 satellites since April 2025 and plans to deploy thousands by 2029.
The acquisition adds approximately two dozen Globalstar satellites and valuable mobile-satellite spectrum to its growing network. This will enhance Amazon’s offering of direct-to-device (D2D) services, which will mean even more competition, coverage, and capacity.
com/czBn2b0tqd— Brendan Carr (@BrendanCarrFCC) October 27, 2026 Amazon, which has committed over $10 billion to Leo, expects to begin commercial services by year-end. The company previously outlined plans to expand its satellite constellation as it accelerates deployment.
’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) satellite-enabled Emergency SOS, Find My and other connectivity features. 5 billion in Globalstar in 2024, securing a 20% equity stake that Amazon plans to acquire.
Amazon has outlined plans for up to 5,105 direct-to-device satellites, with deployments beginning in 2028. The companies also agreed to maintain satellite connectivity for supported iPhones and Apple Watches.
" What Amazon’s Expansion Means For SpaceX SpaceX retains a substantial advantage, operating more than 11,000 Starlink satellites. The FCC also recently authorized another 15,000 satellites for its expanding direct-to-device network.
However, Amazon’s acquisition strengthens its spectrum position and creates another potential competitor in mobile connectivity. Musk previously dismissed suggestions that Amazon’s competition drove Starlink price cuts.
"This has nothing to do with Kuiper, we’re just trying to make Starlink more affordable to a broader audience," Musk said in February.
