Amazon reportedly in talks to acquire satellite firm Globalstar
Type: Acquisition · Technology: Telecom · Announced: 2026-04-02
Amazon is reportedly engaged in lengthy discussions to acquire satellite company Globalstar, according to sources familiar with the deal cited by the Financial Times. This potential acquisition would significantly bolster Amazon's ambitions to compete with SpaceX's Starlink service in the satellite internet market. The talks are complicated by Apple's existing 20 percent stake in Globalstar, acquired in November 2024 for approximately $400 million, which also includes a $1.1 billion cash agreement for expanded iPhone satellite services. Globalstar currently operates a constellation of 48 first-generation LEO satellites and 24 second-generation spacecraft, with plans for a third-generation fleet to support Apple and a larger future constellation. Amazon itself is developing its own satellite internet constellation, Amazon Leo (formerly Project Kuiper), with over 200 satellites already in orbit.
Analysis
Amazon is reportedly in lengthy discussions to acquire satellite firm Globalstar, according to sources cited by the Financial Times. Globalstar currently operates 48 first-generation LEO satellites and 24 second-generation spacecraft, with plans for a third-generation fleet. Amazon itself is developing its own satellite internet constellation, Amazon Leo, with over 200 satellites already in orbit. The talks are complicated by Apple's 20 percent stake in Globalstar, acquired in November 2024 for approximately $400 million.
Key points
- Amazon reportedly in talks to acquire Globalstar
- Globalstar operates 48 first-generation LEO satellites and 24 second-generation spacecraft
- Amazon Leo has over 200 satellites in orbit
- Apple acquired a 20 percent stake in Globalstar in November 2024 for $400 million
Counterparties
- Amazon (Buyer)
- Globalstar (Seller)