Amazon is preparing to launch its satellite broadband service, Project Kuiper, in the UK, challenging Elon Musk’s Starlink’s dominance in this burgeoning market. Jeff Bezos’s company plans to deploy over 3,200 low Earth orbit satellites to provide high-speed broadband, particularly targeting underserved regions. Despite delays, a commercial launch is anticipated this year, initially focusing on business and government sectors.
Ofcom, the UK telecom regulator, is currently reviewing Amazon’s application for an Earth Station Network license. This includes requests for Ka-band frequency access and exploring UK ground-based hubs, referred to as “gateways,” for network enhancement. Moreover, Amazon has engaged with the UK government, especially the Ministry of Defence, demonstrating their commitment by conducting studies for the UK Space Command.
Although Starlink has a head start with 87,000 UK users and nearly 7,000 satellites in orbit, Amazon believes its system is uniquely suited to reach challenging areas. Partnerships with operators like Vodafone and collaboration with defense officials support this claim. However, regulatory hurdles and satellite deployment challenges have slowed Kuiper’s progress.
The public feedback period on Amazon’s application with Ofcom concluded in mid-October. The regulator will now evaluate responses before deciding on the license. Meanwhile, Amazon continues its preparations, confident in its offering of enhanced broadband services by leveraging advanced non-geostationary orbit satellite technology.
