Amazon has agreed to acquire satellite telecommunications firm Globalstar in a deal valued at about $11.57 billion, marking a major step in its push to expand into space-based internet services.
According to Reuters, the acquisition will give Amazon access to Globalstar’s existing network of low-Earth orbit satellites, strengthening its ability to build out its own satellite constellation and accelerate its connectivity ambitions.
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The deal is part of Amazon’s broader strategy to compete directly with Elon Musk’s Starlink, which currently dominates the satellite internet market with thousands of satellites and millions of users worldwide.
Amazon plans to deploy around 3,200 satellites by 2029 and already has more than 200 in orbit, with services expected to launch later this year.
By integrating Globalstar’s infrastructure, Amazon aims to close the gap with Starlink and expand global internet coverage.
Under the agreement, Globalstar shareholders will receive either $90 in cash or Amazon shares, and the transaction is expected to close next year pending regulatory approvals.
The move also strengthens Amazon’s partnership with Apple, as Globalstar currently powers satellite features like emergency messaging on iPhones.
Overall, the acquisition highlights intensifying competition in the fast-growing satellite internet sector, where demand for global connectivity continues to rise.
