Amazon is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Globalstar, aiming to boost its low-Earth-orbit satellite initiatives and challenge Elon Musk’s Starlink dominance, especially in rapidly growing African connectivity markets.
While negotiations are still ongoing and complex, sources indicate that the deal is primarily centred around spectrum rights and Globalstar’s established satellite network. According to the Financial Times of India, an agreement could be reached soon, although it remains unconfirmed.
A particular challenge in the negotiations is Apple’s 20% stake in Globalstar, which introduces additional corporate complexities.
If finalised, this acquisition would significantly accelerate Amazon’s satellite internet deployment under its Project Kuiper initiative, which was recently rebranded as Leo. This initiative, which aims to provide high-speed broadband to underserved areas, was expanded into Africa about 11 months ago.
Amazon has already started launching Kuiper satellites, boasting over 180 in orbit. However, this is far short of Starlink, which currently operates over 7,000 satellites.
A Globalstar representative said the company does not comment on speculation, and Amazon has also refrained from confirming the discussions.
Starlink, managed by SpaceX, is already enhancing its presence across Africa, with active services in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, Mozambique, and parts of Southern Africa. Its low-latency broadband services are crucial for remote schools, mining sectors, and rural fintech operations.
Nonetheless, Starlink faces regulatory and licensing challenges in several African nations, creating a window of opportunity for competitors to capture market share in this lucrative sector.
Acquiring Globalstar would greatly enhance Amazon’s position in Africa, as Globalstar already holds spectrum authorisations and partnerships in nations such as South Africa, Rwanda, Mozambique, and Gabon, focusing on enterprise connectivity, conservation tracking, and industrial IoT solutions. This existing infrastructure could provide Amazon with a regulatory advantage in markets where Starlink has faced lengthy approval processes.
