FCC grants Globalstar approval for its C‑3 satellite constellation
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission approved Globalstar’s third‑generation C‑3 mobile satellite service, authorising nationwide operation of a 54‑satellite fleet. The constellation will consist of 48 low‑Earth‑orbit satellites and six on‑orbit spares, with the first launch slated for early‑mid 2027. The approval clears the regulatory path for direct‑to‑device connectivity in the United States and is tied to a pending $11.6 billion acquisition of Globalstar.
Why it matters
The regulatory clearance enables Globalstar to offer D2D services in the U.S., supporting the business case for the pending acquisition and potentially accelerating the timeline for the buyer’s satellite strategy. The buyer’s ability to integrate Globalstar’s spectrum and network will affect its competitive position against other LEO providers.
Key facts
- 1The FCC granted Globalstar nationwide authority to operate its C‑3 satellite system. finance.biggo.com
- 2The approved C‑3 fleet comprises 48 operational LEO satellites and six on‑orbit spares, for a total of 54 spacecraft. finance.biggo.com
- 3The satellites will be built by MDA Space and the first launch is scheduled for early‑mid 2027. finance.biggo.com
- 4The constellation will operate from an altitude of 1,414 km. advanced-television.com
- 5The FCC order requires Globalstar to launch and operate at least 50 % of the 48 authorized operational satellites by October 11, 2032. advanced-television.com
- 6A pending acquisition of Globalstar is valued at $11.6 billion. finance.biggo.com
Open questions
- Conflict on the acquiring party: material 1 states Amazon is acquiring Globalstar, while material 2 states Apple is acquiring Globalstar.
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 2 of 2 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.