Amazon Leo Hits 150 Satellites in Orbit, Expanding Global High-Speed Internet Reach

Seven years ago, Amazon embarked on an ambitious mission to build one of the most advanced satellite communications networks ever conceived. The goal was clear: billions of people still lack high-speed internet access, and millions of businesses, governments, and organizations operate in regions without reliable connectivity. Amazon aimed to bridge this digital divide through a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit.

Initially operating under the code name “Project Kuiper,” inspired by the distant Kuiper Belt in the solar system, the program has grown from a small team of engineers and paper designs to one of the largest satellite production lines on the planet. Over the years, the team achieved key milestones, including filing and securing initial licenses, signing historic launch contracts, completing prototype missions, and deploying the first full batch of production satellites earlier this year.

Now, the project has been permanently rebranded as Amazon Leo, a nod to its low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network. The rebranding coincides with the launch of more than 150 satellites in orbit following Amazon’s sixth successful launch, as the company steadily expands its constellation.

Amazon Leo has also introduced advanced customer terminals, including the first commercial phased array antenna capable of supporting gigabit speeds. The service has already attracted major partners and customers, including JetBlue, L3Harris, DIRECTV Latin America, Sky Brasil, and Australia’s NBN Co., signaling early adoption and international interest in the network.

With the constellation expanding rapidly and a growing list of partners, Amazon Leo is positioning itself as a major player in global satellite internet, aiming to deliver fast, reliable connectivity to underserved regions worldwide.