Amazon acquires Globalstar for $11.6bn to challenge Starlink

Amazon agreed to acquire Globalstar in a satellite-connectivity transaction that would add spectrum, satellite operations and direct-to-device capacity to Amazon Leo.

Amazon's proposed Globalstar acquisition is a direct-to-device shortcut, not just another satellite-network purchase. The deal would give Amazon Leo spectrum, operating satellite assets and an existing emergency-messaging service base while Amazon continues scaling its own low-earth-orbit constellation.

Amazon and Globalstar signed a definitive merger agreement under which Amazon would acquire Globalstar for $90 per share in cash or Amazon stock, valuing the transaction at about $11.57bn. The companies expect closing in 2027, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval.

Globalstar brings mobile-satellite spectrum, an operating satellite service base and engineering experience into Amazon Leo. Amazon says the assets will help extend coverage beyond terrestrial networks and support direct-to-device satellite connectivity.

The control question is whether Amazon can turn those assets into carrier, device and enterprise partnerships quickly enough to narrow Starlink's lead. Watch regulatory review, spectrum-transfer conditions, Apple service continuity, mobile-network partner deals and Amazon Leo launch cadence.