Amazon Corporation has announced its intention to acquire Globalstar for $11.57 billion. This initiative marks a key step in enhancing Amazon’s satellite infrastructure capabilities, strategically positioning it to address Starlink’s current dominance, as reported by The Guardian.
Upon completion of the deal, Amazon will gain access to Globalstar’s network, which currently consists of approximately 20 low-Earth-orbit satellites. In contrast, SpaceX’s Starlink operates a fleet of about 10,000 satellites, serving over 9 million global users.
Under the agreement’s terms, Globalstar shareholders can choose either $90 per share in cash or 0.3210 Amazon shares for each Globalstar share held. Simultaneously, the parties have decided to extend their collaboration to provide critical satellite functions, including Emergency SOS and Find My services for iPhone and Apple Watch users.
Amazon plans to deploy around 3,200 satellites by 2029, with nearly half aiming for launch by July 2026 to meet regulatory requirements. Currently, the company manages over 200 satellites, with the launch of its proprietary satellite internet service scheduled for this year.
Located in Louisiana, Globalstar is a satellite service operator catering to Apple, including the provision of the Emergency SOS feature, supported by a network comprising 54 satellites, including reserves, funded by Apple. The company also offers voice and data transfer services, as well as asset-tracking services for businesses, government bodies, and individual consumers.
The transaction’s completion is projected for next year, pending regulatory approvals and fulfillment of Globalstar’s satellite infrastructure deployment obligations.