Amazon has formally requested an extension from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for its ambitious satellite internet service, recently rebranded as Amazon Leo. The tech giant is seeking additional time to deploy its constellation of internet satellites, a critical step in launching its competitor to SpaceX’s Starlink.
Satellite Deployment Challenges
The company is facing a looming deadline of July 30, 2026, which requires the deployment of approximately 1,600 internet satellites. Amazon has disclosed that it has already invested over $10 billion in its Leo constellation and has secured more than 100 satellites. However, in its letter to the FCC, Amazon acknowledges it will not meet the July deadline for having half of its planned satellite constellation operational.
The request for an extension underscores the significant logistical and technical hurdles involved in building and launching a global satellite internet network. Amazon’s Project Kuiper aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access to underserved areas worldwide, a market increasingly populated by established and emerging players.
