Amazon gets FCC approval to launch 4,500 Leo internet satellites

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted Amazon approval to launch an impressive fleet of 4,500 satellites, marking a significant step in the company’s ambitions to establish a formidable presence in the satellite internet market and challenge SpaceX's dominance. With this new approval, Amazon's planned constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites will expand to approximately 7,700 units. Since April, the tech giant has successfully launched over 150 satellites using various rocket providers, aiming to roll out its satellite internet service, known as Leo, later this year. Originally announced in 2019, this ambitious project is set to enhance global internet connectivity. The upcoming satellites are part of a second generation of Amazon's orbital systems, designed to function at altitudes nearing 400 miles. These additional satellites will allow for a broader range of frequency bands and increase coverage across different geographic regions. The FCC has stipulations for Amazon, requiring the company to deploy 50% of the newly approved satellites by February 10, 2032, with the remaining half due by February 10, 2035. Additionally, Amazon must meet a separate deadline to launch 1,600 of its first-generation satellites before July 2026. Recently, the company requested an extension to this deadline, citing various delays, including a shortage of available rockets, which has hampered its launch schedule. Amazon has invested a staggering $10 billion into its satellite internet initiative, which is gearing up to compete with SpaceX's Starlink, boasting over 9,000 satellites and approximately 9 million subscribers. As part of its ongoing commitment, Amazon plans to allocate an additional $1 billion towards its Leo constellation this year, as outlined in its latest quarterly report. Looking ahead, Amazon's finance chief Brian Olsavsky announced that the company has over 20 launches scheduled for 2026 and more than 30 for 2027. The next Leo mission is on the horizon, with an Arianespace rocket set to launch another 32 satellites shortly. In total, Amazon has booked 17 additional missions with the French launch provider.