CAPE CANAVERAL, — Eight new Globalstar communications satellites manufactured by MDA Space and Rocket Lab have successfully completed their initial functional tests in low Earth orbit (LEO), marking an important milestone in the company's 17-satellite replenishment programme.
The satellites were launched on August 15, 2026, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. MDA Space, the mission's prime contractor, confirmed the successful tests on November 10.
Two satellites have already started using electric propulsion to raise their orbits, with Rocket Lab supporting the process. The remaining six are undergoing payload and spacecraft testing while their orbital planes align. Further orbit adjustments and testing will take place before they enter their operational positions.
Final Nine Satellites Complete Assembly
MDA Space has also completed the final assembly and integration of the remaining nine satellites at its facility in Montréal, Quebec. This brings the manufacturing and integration work for all 17 spacecraft to completion.
MDA Space is responsible for assembly, integration and testing, while Rocket Lab designed and built the satellite platforms under a subcontract worth approximately $143 million.
The overall programme was awarded to MDA Space in 2022 at a reported value of approximately $327 million for the initial 17 satellites. The mission also marks MDA Space's first delivery of a commercial low Earth orbit communications constellation as prime contractor.
Satellites to Support Apple's iPhone Satellite Services
Once deployed, the 17 satellites will replenish Globalstar's existing HIBLEO constellation, which supports direct-to-device satellite communications and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.
Apple relies on Globalstar's network for satellite-enabled features on supported iPhones and Apple Watches, including Emergency SOS, satellite messaging and location sharing. Apple has historically secured long-term agreements for access to up to 85% of Globalstar's constellation bandwidth.
Amazon's $11.57 Billion Globalstar Acquisition
The satellite deployment is taking place alongside a major change in Globalstar's ownership. Amazon announced an agreement to acquire Globalstar in April 2026 for approximately $11.57 billion.
The acquisition would bring Globalstar's operational satellites, infrastructure and mobile-satellite spectrum licences into Amazon's expanding Amazon Leo satellite communications network.
The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the transfer of relevant Globalstar licences in late October 2026. The transaction remains subject to other regulatory approvals and closing conditions, including specific satellite deployment milestones, with completion expected in 2027.
Amazon and Apple have also established a long-term agreement to ensure continuity of satellite services for supported Apple devices through Amazon Leo.
Further testing and orbital adjustments will continue before the eight satellites enter full operational service, supporting the replenishment of Globalstar's existing network.
——— End of Article ———