Amazon Files for 5,105-Satellite Direct-to-Device Network as FCC Upper C-Band Order Sets Up $6B for SES, Eutelsat and Telesat

Amazon asked the FCC on July 24 to authorize a 5,105-satellite low Earth orbit constellation for direct-to-device service using Globalstar's 1.6 and 2.4 GHz spectrum, across five shells between 510 and 580 kilometers. The filing ties the system to Globalstar, which Amazon agreed to acquire in April for about $11.6 billion, and says Amazon intends to build out Globalstar's future network once the deal closes in 2027. Amazon's Leo D2D System supplements its authorized broadband constellation, aimed at smartphones, IoT devices, in-vehicle connectivity and emergency traffic. It sets up a third U.S. D2D contender alongside SpaceX-T-Mobile and AST SpaceMobile.

The FCC's Upper C-band Report and Order, adopted July 24, set up a 2027 auction of 160 MHz across the contiguous United States and the incentive structure for geostationary operators. SES is in line for roughly $5.6 billion if it clears on schedule in 2030 and 2031, Eutelsat for $504 million, and Telesat for $189 million, with transition costs reimbursable. SES told the FCC it expects clearing costs near $3.6 billion, including about $2.62 billion for five hybrid Ku-band satellites. The FCC estimates the auction could raise $40.8 billion to $69.6 billion.

Space Systems Command awarded Sphinx Defense a $287 million Other Transaction Authority contract for mission planning on the Boeing-led Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications system, which carries U.S. nuclear command and control. MDA Space priced $600 million of 6.50% senior unsecured notes due 2033 to finance its $620 million acquisition of Blue Canyon Technologies, alongside a $920 million purchase of a 70% stake in CLS. SpaceX drew fresh political scrutiny after disclosures showed at least six House members bought a combined $83,000 to $245,000 of stock within six days of the June 12 IPO, several from committees overseeing its contracts.