Amazon Launches a Global Rival to Starlink: What We Know About the Network of 5,000 Satellites
28 July 06:52
The American corporation Amazon has taken another step toward creating its own global satellite network, which is intended to compete with SpaceX’s Starlink service. The company plans to launch more than 5,000 satellites into low Earth orbit to provide mobile communications and data transmission virtually anywhere in the world. This was reported by the Financial Times, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
To implement the project, Amazon has already filed an application with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Amazon plans to deploy the network by 2028
According to the application filed with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Amazon expects to obtain the necessary permits and complete the deployment of the satellite constellation by 2028.
The initiative is an extension of the large-scale space project Project Kuiper, under which the company is creating a global satellite internet system.
What services will the new satellite network provide?
According to the documents, the new system will provide:
- mobile voice communication;
- SMS and other messaging;
- high-speed internet access;
- high-volume data transmission;
- access to emergency services even in areas without traditional mobile carrier coverage.
In this way, Amazon aims to make satellite mobile communications available anywhere in the world.
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Competition with Starlink is reaching a new level
Currently, Starlink—owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX —remains the global leader in satellite internet and mobile communications.
It was Starlink that effectively shaped the modern market for low-Earth orbit satellite internet, providing network access to millions of users in dozens of countries.
Amazon’s entry could significantly shift the balance of power in this market, as the company has sufficient financial resources to roll out its own infrastructure on a massive scale.
Why Amazon Is Entering the Market Right Now
Submitting an application to the FCC is Amazon’s first official step toward launching satellite mobile communications.
Experts believe the company is seeking to capture a promising market segment that is growing rapidly thanks to the development of next-generation satellite technologies.
In addition to providing internet access in remote regions, such systems are increasingly being used for mobile communications without the need for traditional cell towers.
Competition is also intensifying in Russia
At the same time, Russia is also developing its own satellite system.
Recently, the second batch of satellites for the “Rassvet” project—which Russia positions as a future counterpart to Starlink—was launched into orbit.
Currently, these satellites have not yet formed a full-fledged orbital constellation, but Russian officials state that the project is continuing.
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