Amazon Eyes Launch of Kuiper Satellite Internet in Uzbekistan

Amazon may soon bring its Kuiper satellite internet service to Uzbekistan, following a preliminary agreement reached with the country's Ministry of Digital Technologies.

The announcement came after Amazon representatives visited Uzbekistan during a U.S. business mission from October 7 to 9, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

During their visit, they held discussions with Minister of Digital Technologies Sherzod Shermatov, focusing on potential collaboration to expand broadband internet access across the country through satellite technology.

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.”