SpaceX readies first Starlink V3 launch as Amazon's satellite rollout stalls

SpaceX plans to send 26 Starlink V3 satellites aloft on a Starship launch, the first time the vehicle will reach orbit, a test that could expand its broadband network. The flight comes as Amazon’s Leo satellite program struggles to maintain momentum; its most recent launch occurred twelve weeks ago, delivering 29 satellites via a ULA Atlas V. Amazon’s launch pipeline is hampered by multiple setbacks: the US Space Force grounded the Vulcan rocket after a February booster anomaly, Blue Origin’s New Glenn remains idle after its sole launchpad was destroyed, and Ariane 6 delays are expected to affect the remainder of 2026.

Although Amazon has ordered six extra Ariane 64 launches, the October slot was removed from the European spaceport schedule. With its FCC deadline extended but commercial service still pending, Leo may take years to rival Starlink’s over-11,000-satellite network.