Amazon Applies to FCC for 5,105 Direct-to-Device Satellites

Amazon.com Services LLC has applied to the Federal Communications Commission for approval to launch a direct-to-device (D2D) mega-constellation of 5,105 low Earth orbit satellites. Operated through its subsidiary Kuiper Systems LLC, also known as Amazon Leo, the network is designed to provide voice, data, and emergency messaging to underserved areas, industrial IoT, and disaster response services. Deployment is scheduled to begin in 2028.

The initiative leverages the spectrum and ground networks of Globalstar, which Amazon is acquiring for approximately $11.6 billion in a deal expected to close in 2027. Amazon Leo has also requested the use of certain L-Band frequencies associated with Iridium, a company currently being acquired by Rocket Lab. To support the rollout, Amazon Leo has established partnerships with NBN Co, Herotel, DirecTV, and Vodafone.

The move places Amazon in direct competition with SpaceX's Starlink and Starlink Mobile, as well as Lynk Global and AST SpaceMobile. In response to the filing, FCC Chair Brendan Carr criticized the company's focus on competitors, suggesting Amazon prioritize its own launch cadence over the pace of SpaceX. Amazon is currently deploying its first-generation broadband system with roughly 390 satellites already in orbit, though industry-wide rocket launch capacity remains a constraint.