This week, the Federal Communications Commission approved a request from Amazon to launch thousands more satellites to build its broadband internet network.
The FCC previously approved 3,233 Amazon Leo Gen 1 satellites. The agency’s order this week approved the launch of over 4,500 Gen 2 satellites.
The upgraded satellite network will be able to offer high-speed services, such as satellite TV and 5G connectivity. The satellites will use the same frequency bands as SpaceX’s Starlink network. Starlink has emerged as a major satellite internet provider to the RV industry, through OE sales and the aftermarket.
Amazon has launched approximately 200 Gen 1 satellites so far. The FCC required Amazon to launch 1,616 by the end of July. Amazon has requested an extension to the FCC’s deadline.
The new approval requires half the Gen 2 satellites to be launched by February 2032. The FCC said all approved satellites must be launched by February 2035.
