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Tue, 14 Apr 2026

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 Amazon to spend $11bn on satellite firm in growing Starlink rivalry

Amazon wants to get thousands more satellites into orbit to offer internet and mobile services.
Amazon has agreed to acquire Globalstar, a satellite communications company, for $11.57bn (£8.5bn). The deal will allow Amazon to expand its satellite business and offer internet and mobile phone services through its "Leo" project. Amazon plans to deploy a next-generation satellite system by 2028, which will put it in direct competition with Elon Musk's Starlink company. With over 10,000 active satellites already in orbit, Starlink is currently the leading provider of satellite-based internet and phone services. However, Amazon has secured commitments from major companies like Delta Airlines, AT&T, and NASA to use its Leo satellites once they become available. The acquisition will also allow Amazon to continue offering emergency "SOS" functionality on Apple devices through Globalstar's infrastructure.