FCC Approves Amazon Leo’s $11.5 B Purchase of Globalstar, Clearing Path for Satellite Connectivity Expansion

The Federal Communications Commission has given the green light to Amazon’s Leo unit to complete its $11.5 billion purchase of Globalstar, a provider of mobile‑satellite services. The clearance removes the final regulatory hurdle for the transaction, allowing the two companies to move forward with integration plans that could reshape low‑orbit connectivity offerings in the United States.

Globalstar, which operates a constellation of low‑earth‑orbit satellites delivering voice and data links to remote users, was founded in the late 1990s and has built a niche market serving industries such as maritime, aviation and emergency response. Amazon’s Leo subsidiary, created to develop satellite‑based broadband solutions, has been pursuing a multi‑year strategy to expand its presence in the space‑based communications sector, complementing the larger Project Kuiper effort aimed at building a new broadband constellation.

The FCC’s approval follows a standard review process that examined spectrum usage, competition concerns and compliance with U.S. national security rules. Regulators concluded that the merger would not substantially lessen competition, noting that Globalstar’s existing market share is relatively small compared to larger players like Iridium and the emerging Kuiper network. The agency also confirmed that the transaction meets foreign‑investment and antitrust criteria.

Industry analysts view the deal as a step toward a more integrated service offering, where Amazon could bundle satellite connectivity with its cloud and e‑commerce platforms. By adding Globalstar’s established network and customer base, Leo may accelerate rollout timelines for niche services that require reliable coverage in areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure. The acquisition also positions Amazon to compete more directly with other tech giants that are investing heavily in space, such as Microsoft’s Azure Space and SpaceX’s Starlink.

With the FCC’s sign‑off, the next phase will involve closing the purchase, which is expected to occur later this year, and beginning the technical and operational integration of the two entities. Stakeholders will watch how Amazon leverages Globalstar’s assets to expand its satellite portfolio and whether the move spurs further regulatory scrutiny as the company pursues its broader ambitions in the space domain.