The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved Amazon Leo’s USD 11.5 billion acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar. The move advances Amazon’s efforts to build a satellite communications network that competes with Elon Musk’s Starlink.
The deal will provide Amazon access to Globalstar’s existing satellites and mobile-satellite spectrum as it expands its connectivity services.
Amazon Leo has launched nearly 400 satellites since April 2025 and aims to deploy thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit by 2029. The acquisition will add Globalstar’s two dozen satellites to Amazon’s existing network.
The tech giant has committed to investing more than USD 10 billion in its satellite business. FCC also mentioned Amazon is preparing to roll out commercial satellite services by the end of 2026.
The FCC said the combined assets would strengthen Amazon Leo’s entry into the direct-to-device market and enable it to offer fixed and mobile satellite services. The technology allows smartphones and other devices to connect directly to satellites, potentially extending connectivity beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks.
“The FCC has empowered Amazon Leo to deliver fast, next-gen satellite broadband services, increase competition, and help communities stay connected all across the country,” FCC Chair Brendan Carr said.
The move comes as technology companies invest billions of dollars in satellite-based connectivity to challenge Starlink, which operates a network of more than 11,000 satellites.
Amazon has also sought FCC approval to deploy up to 5,105 satellites. The regulator is scheduled to vote on Thursday on advancing a wireless spectrum auction to support direct-to-device services.
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Globalstar currently supports satellite-based safety features, including Emergency SOS and Find My, for Apple’s iPhone and Apple Watch users. Amazon has previously said it signed an agreement with Apple to continue providing these services after the acquisition.
Apple invested about USD 1.5 billion in Globalstar in 2024 to expand its iPhone communication services. The investment also gave Apple a 20% equity stake in the satellite operator. According to the report, Apple accounted for about 63% of Globalstar’s revenue last year.
Amazon plans to acquire Apple’s stake in Globalstar as part of the transaction, the FCC said. Globalstar had also announced plans for an Apple-backed satellite network that would expand its constellation to 54 satellites, including a small number of backups, from the nearly two dozen satellites it currently operates.
The acquisition gives Amazon additional satellite infrastructure and spectrum as it prepares to expand its connectivity offerings and compete more directly with established satellite internet providers.