FCC approves Amazon acquisition of Globalstar for satellite network

The Federal Communications Commission approved Amazon's proposed acquisition of satellite operator Globalstar on October 27, 2026, SatNews reported. Advanced Television, CitiNewsroom.com, Y100 WNCY, and Tech-Insider also reported the approval. SatNews stated that the commission authorized the transaction because the deal will expand commercial competition in the direct-to-device telecommunications sector. [1][3][4][5][6]

The acquisition was initially announced in April, according to SatNews. CitiNewsroom.com, Y100 WNCY, and Tech-Insider reported that the transaction is valued at $11.5 billion, while SatNews cited pricing estimates from Via Satellite that place the value at $10.8 billion. SatNews added that the transaction covers Globalstar's operational satellite fleet and physical assets. [1][4][5][6]

Amazon Leo, established in 2019 as Project Kuiper and rebranded in November 2025, is deployed as a satellite internet constellation providing low-latency broadband connectivity. Globalstar operates a second-generation constellation of 25 satellites in low Earth orbit for satellite phone services, low-speed data transmission, and Earth observation. Amazon announced an agreement in April 2026 to acquire Globalstar and merge it into its Amazon Leo business unit, with the transaction expected to close in 2027. [7][9]

SatNews noted that SpaceX maintains an established position in the direct-to-device telecommunications sector through its Starlink Mobile service. As FTMQ Space reported earlier, direct-to-device networks have seen broader industry momentum, with international testing laboratories expanding validation tools for satellite-enabled devices. [1][10]