Amazon may launch Kuiper satellite internet in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has reached a preliminary agreement with Amazon on launching satellite internet services, the Ministry of Digital Technologies reported.

Representatives of the corporation visited the country as part of the U.S. business mission held from October 7 to 9. During the visit, they met with Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov to discuss cooperation in the field of broadband internet connectivity.

Following the talks, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the Ministry of Digital Technologies and Amazon Kuiper Commercial Services, outlining plans for partnership to improve Uzbekistan’s digital infrastructure.

In particular, Amazon intends to introduce its Project Kuiper satellite communication system in Uzbekistan to expand access to high-speed internet across the country.

Amazon launched Project Kuiper in 2019 with the goal of providing broadband internet access to users worldwide, including in sparsely populated and remote areas. Connection speeds are expected to reach up to 400 Mbps, with potential expansion to 1 Gbps. The network will operate through 12 ground stations.

In late 2021, Amazon applied to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for permission to launch two test satellites. Overall, the company planned to deploy more than 3,200 satellites into low Earth orbit, investing around $10 billion in the project.

The first test launches took place in 2023. In April this year, the company sent the first batch of 27 satellites into orbit aboard an Atlas V rocket operated by United Launch Alliance. Amazon plans to begin providing communication services to its first customers by the end of the year.

In a related development, Kazakhstan’s Minister of Digital Development, Jaslan Madiev, announced in late 2024 that his country also plans to launch Amazon’s satellite internet service, noting that increased competition would help ensure high-quality services “at an affordable price.”