The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) authorized Amazon Leo (formerly Project Kuiper), Amazon’s low Earth orbit satellite internet network, to launch over 4,500 additional satellites.This will eventually expand Amazon Leo’s constellation to over 7,700 satellites to deliver high-speed satellite internet to consumer and enterprise customers. The FCC’s Feb.10 authorization approved the launch of: 3,212 Gen 2 satellites 1,292 Polar System satellites This is in addition to the 3,212 Gen 1 satellites for which Amazon has already been approved and is now deploying.
Amazon has launched 200+ satellites since April 2025, with its most recent launch successfully deploying 32 satellites on Feb.12, 2026, aboard an Arianespace Ariane 64 rocket. Amazon Leo launch timeline Amazon Leo is held to various FCC launch deadlines throughout the next decade, some of which are fast approaching. Gen 1 satellites Amazon must launch half of its 3,212 Gen 1 constellation (roughly 1,600 satellites) by July 30, 2026 The second half is required by July 30, 2029 Amazon has requested that the FCC extend this first deadline to July 2028 or waive it entirely due to limited launch capacity Gen 2 satellites Amazon must launch half of the most recently approved Gen 2 and Polar satellites (roughly 2,200) by Feb.10, 2032 The second half is required by Feb.
10, 2035 Amazon Leo positioned to rival Starlink Since its 2019 announcement, Amazon Leo has generated its fair share of industry buzz.Starlink’s rapid rise has left traditional satellite providers like Hughesnet struggling to stay afloat, so the news of another low Earth orbit satellite network competing with Starlink has been highly anticipated. But despite Amazon Leo’s latest developments, it still has a long way to go until it can catch up with Starlink’s almost 10,000-strong satellite constellation and 10 million global subscriber count.Amazon hasn’t revealed the pricing or speed tiers for its upcoming internet service, but we can expect Leo to remain competitive with Starlink, which offers residential plans starting at $50.00/mo. What to read next Read more Featured Amazon’s Project Kuiper is expected to compete with Starlink, but when? Camryn Smith — 3 min read Featured Best internet options for travel Joe Supan — 9 min read Featured Best internet options for your RV or camper Camryn Smith — 5 min read Latest Monday, February 16, 2026 Amazon gets nod to launch 4,500 more broadband satellites Camryn Smith — 2 min read Friday, February 13, 2026 What is the new Xfinity Membership program? Lisa Iscrupe — 3 min read Thursday, February 12, 2026 The hidden internet fees you pay with each provider Lisa Iscrupe — 8 min read
Read More
