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TechAmazon seeks FCC approval to launch 5,105 satellites for direct-to-device network
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Amazon has filed an application with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission seeking approval to launch up to 5,105 satellites for a direct-to-device (D2D) network. The proposed network will combine Amazon's existing infrastructure with assets from Globalstar, which Amazon announced plans to acquire in April 2026 for approximately $11.6 billion. Amazon targets users who are unserved or underserved by existing wireless providers, as well as emergency operations like search and rescue, and remote worksites, fleets, and supply chains. The company expects the Globalstar deal to close in 2027, with D2D network deployment beginning in 2028. Amazon currently has over 390 satellites in orbit for its Project Kuiper LEO internet service, which competes with SpaceX's Starlink. The D2D network will compete directly with SpaceX's Starlink Mobile service, which offers direct-to-cell connectivity via T-Mobile in the U.S.
Source report
Caption: A United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket carrying Amazon's Project Kuiper internet satellites launches from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, April 9, 2025. (Joe Skipper | Reuters)
Amazon has filed a request with federal regulators to launch up to 5,105 internet satellites as part of a constellation designed to provide direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity.
Key Details
- Satellite count: Up to 5,105 satellites proposed for the D2D network
- Acquisition: Amazon announced plans in April to acquire satellite operator Globalstar for approximately $11.6 billion
- Timeline: Deployment expected to begin in 2028, with the Globalstar deal closing in 2027
Network Architecture
In a Saturday application with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Amazon stated that its D2D network will combine its existing infrastructure with Globalstar's satellites and spectrum.
D2D networks provide connectivity directly to smartphones and other devices via satellites, bypassing traditional cell towers.
Target Users and Applications
Amazon is focusing on users who are "unserved or underserved" by existing wireless providers, according to the filing. Additional applications include:
- Supporting emergency operations such as search and rescue
- Extending connectivity for remote worksites, fleets, and supply chains that are difficult for terrestrial networks to reach
"Amazon looks forward to delivering on the promise of D2D connectivity, including to the millions of people living, traveling and working in places beyond the reach of existing networks today," the company wrote.
Project Kuiper Progress
Amazon has been building its low Earth orbit (LEO) internet network, Project Kuiper, since last April. The initiative aims to compete with SpaceX's Starlink, the dominant LEO internet provider with a constellation of more than 10,000 satellites.
- Amazon now has more than 390 satellites in orbit
- The company recently stated this is sufficient to begin "initial service" later this year
Regulatory Developments
Last month, the FCC granted Amazon's request to waive a requirement to deploy 1,600 of its first-generation satellites by July 30. Amazon remains required to launch all 3,232 of its planned satellite constellation by July 2029.
Competitive Landscape
Amazon's D2D network will compete with SpaceX's Starlink Mobile service. SpaceX has acquired wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar and offers direct-to-cell service via T-Mobile in the U.S.
Watch Now: AT&T CEO John Stankey on Q2 results, Starlink competition and future of telecom (8:04)
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Amazon seeks federal approval to launch 5,105 satellites for direct-to-device network