On Monday, Amazon launched its first 27 satellites as part of its Project Kuiper initiative, marking the company’s official entry into the satellite internet sector, which has been largely dominated by SpaceX’s Starlink.
The satellites were launched aboard a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at just after 7 pm ET. Despite a weather delay, the successful mission represents a significant milestone in Amazon’s $10 billion plan to deploy over 3,200 satellites aimed at providing global internet coverage.
Project Kuiper, announced six years ago, is Amazon’s most ambitious space project yet. The satellites, orbiting around 280 miles above Earth, will eventually provide internet access to underserved regions worldwide. Amazon plans to begin offering commercial services by the end of 2025.
To meet regulatory requirements, Amazon has secured over 80 rocket launches with providers like ULA, Arianespace, Blue Origin, and even SpaceX to deploy at least half of the satellite constellation by mid-2026.
Despite entering the race later than SpaceX, Amazon believes Kuiper will become an integral part of its broader business, linking with Amazon Web Services and logistics operations. CEO Andy Jassy recently shared with shareholders that the project is expected to generate substantial returns, though analysts on Wall Street remain cautious.
SpaceX’s Starlink already operates more than 8,000 satellites and serves over 4.6 million customers globally, making it a tough competitor for Amazon.
Rajeev Badyal, VP of Project Kuiper, said, “This is just the beginning. We’re prepared to learn, adapt, and scale.”
The launch of Kuiper marks a new phase in the race for global internet access, with both commercial and geopolitical implications.
