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Amazon Leo Tests Get SAT Gear for Starlink Rival
1 Apr
Summary
- Amazon is testing custom antennas from Israeli company Get SAT.
- Testing aims to ensure compatibility with Amazon's Leo satellite system.
- This move aims to boost Amazon's competition with SpaceX's Starlink.
Amazon is moving forward with its satellite internet initiative, Leo, by partnering with Israeli firm Get SAT to test custom-designed antennas. The company has applied for experimental authority from the FCC to conduct these tests just north of Los Angeles, with a target start date of April 15, 2026. These tests will evaluate custom Nano antennas equipped with an "Amazon Leo Modem Module" (ALMM) designed to connect to Leo's satellite network.
The custom SATCOM terminal integrates a Ka band phased array antenna manufactured by Get SAT with an Amazon Leo-developed modem chip and radiofrequency components. Amazon stated the purpose of the testing is to confirm configuration compatibility and gather performance data, a crucial step for integrating the ALMM with various partner-manufactured antenna systems. This effort is seen as a key strategy to compete with SpaceX's dominant Starlink service.
Amazon's Leo aims to serve enterprise, government, and consumer customers. While already securing clients like Delta Air Lines and JetBlue, the system is currently in a private beta phase. Leo currently operates with approximately 200 satellites, and Amazon plans to expand this constellation significantly, while actively lobbying the FCC to extend operational deadlines.
