Amazon Leo (NASDAQ:AMZN) has submitted an application to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking approval to deploy a constellation of up to 5,105 low Earth orbit satellites capable of delivering voice, messaging, data and emergency connectivity directly to mobile devices.
According to the company, the proposed direct-to-device (D2D) network would expand its satellite communications platform by providing mobile connectivity without relying on traditional terrestrial infrastructure.
Satellite network planned for 2028 deployment
The proposed constellation would consist of five orbital shells operating at altitudes between 510 and 580 kilometers, with satellite launches expected to begin in 2028.
Amazon Leo said the new D2D network would complement its existing broadband satellite services while also operating alongside the satellite constellations currently managed by Globalstar (NASDAQ:GSAT).
The FCC filing follows the definitive merger agreement announced in April under which Amazon will acquire Globalstar’s satellite operations, ground infrastructure and globally authorized spectrum licenses.
Advanced technology designed for direct mobile connectivity
The planned system will use L-band and S-band spectrum to communicate directly with compatible mobile devices, while Ka-band and V-band frequencies will connect satellites with ground stations.
Unlike traditional relay satellites, the proposed spacecraft will process communications onboard and use optical laser links between satellites to route traffic across the network.
Amazon Leo said the constellation will also incorporate digital beamforming, beam hopping and adaptive modulation technologies to improve spectrum efficiency and network performance.
Expanding global satellite ecosystem
The company said it has already established partnerships with several telecommunications providers, including Vodafone, DirecTV, Herotel and Australia’s National Broadband Network.
Amazon Leo also previously announced an agreement with Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) to support satellite-based services on compatible iPhone and Apple Watch devices, including Emergency SOS and satellite messaging features.
The company currently operates more than 390 first-generation broadband satellites in orbit and has indicated that commercial fixed broadband services are expected to begin rolling out across its initial coverage areas later this year.