FCC Approves Amazon Leo’s Acquisition of Globalstar

The Federal Communications Commission’s Space Bureau approved Amazon Leo’s application to acquire approximately 25 megahertz of Globalstar’s internationally harmonized mobile-satellite service spectrum.  With this approval, the FCC concludes its review of Amazon Leo’s $11.5 billion purchase of Globalstar.

The companies’ complementary assets promise to enhance Amazon Leo’s entry into the direct-to-device segment and create a stronger satellite operator capable of offering fixed and mobile services to residential, business, and government customers.  Amazon plans to use Globalstar’s mobile-satellite spectrum and infrastructure to augment existing services with additional capacity and new capabilities, including broader connectivity beyond the reach of terrestrial wireless networks.

The FCC found that the transaction is likely to benefit the public by enhancing data coverage in unserved or underserved areas, strengthening emergency communications capabilities, fostering growth in industrial and enterprise data services, and promoting more intensive use of mobile-satellite service spectrum.  The FCC also found that no material public-interest harms were likely to result.

Chairman Carr issued the following statement: “President Trump is restoring America’s technology leadership.  And this FCC authorization is a significant step towards supercharging next-generation connectivity.  By approving this deal, the FCC has empowered Amazon Leo to deliver fast, next-gen satellite broadband services, increase competition, and help communities stay connected all across the country.”