Jakarta, INTI – On Monday, April 28, 2025 local time, Amazon successfully orbited its first 27 satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) using an Atlas V rocket from United Launch Alliance (ULA). The launch took place from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, after being delayed due to bad weather.
Project Kuiper is designed to provide high-speed internet service from space, similar to SpaceX's Starlink service. Amazon plans to launch up to 3,236 satellites to build a full constellation in low orbit, with a target beta service launching by the end of 2025.
Although its first satellite is already in orbit, Project Kuiper's internet service is still in the internal testing phase. As required by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Amazon must ensure at least 1,600 satellites are operational by July 2026 in order to offer fully commercial services.
Project Kuiper is coming to Indonesia
Interestingly, Project Kuiper is not only aimed at the American market or developed countries. Amazon has confirmed that it is also preparing to expand to Indonesia. In a meeting with Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid in March 2025, Project Kuiper's Global Head of Licensing and International Regulatory Affairs, Gonzalo de Dios, said that Amazon is taking care of operational licenses in Indonesia, including telecommunications licenses and satellite usage rights.
Gonzalo said that it is important to collaborate with the government and local partners to address connectivity challenges, especially in Indonesia's frontier, outermost, and disadvantaged (3T) areas.
Minister Meutya Hafid welcomed the initiative and emphasized the government's commitment to support Amazon's investment to accelerate national digital transformation.
The Future of Internet Access in Indonesia
If all goes according to plan, the presence of Project Kuiper could be a game changer in expanding internet access to all corners of the archipelago. More equitable connectivity will open up new opportunities in various sectors, from education, health, digital agriculture, to the technology-based creative economy.
Conclusion:
The launch of the Project Kuiper satellite marks a major step for Amazon in the global satellite internet competition, and brings new hope for internet access in remote areas, including Indonesia. With plans to build thousands of satellites in low orbit and a commitment to working with local governments,
Project Kuiper has the potential to accelerate digital transformation and expand connectivity evenly. If it goes well, it will open up more economic, social and educational opportunities for people around the world.