SpaceX is preparing to launch its first Starlink V3 satellites aboard Starship, which the company will also attempt to send into Earth orbit for the first time. The mission is set to carry 26 satellites. If successful, the launch would add upgraded satellites to Starlink’s expanding constellation.
The launch comes as Amazon’s Leo satellite network faces delays tied to its launch partners. Amazon’s last successful Leo deployment was on July 2, when 29 satellites launched aboard United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) Atlas V. Leo has launched 396 satellites in total, compared with more than 11,000 Starlink satellites currently in operation. Since July 2, 552 Starlink satellites have launched.
ULA’s Vulcan rocket has been grounded by the US Space Force since February 2026 after a booster anomaly that remains under investigation. Blue Origin’s New Glenn has also been grounded since its only launchpad was destroyed in May.
Amazon recently ordered six more launches on Arianespace’s A64 rocket, raising its contracted total from 18 to 24. But an unspecified Ariane 6 component issue is expected to disrupt launches for the rest of 2026. Amazon’s FCC deadline to launch half of its planned 3,232 satellites has been extended. The company previously said its almost 400 operating satellites could support a limited service, but its mid-2026 commercial availability target has passed without an update.
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