Amazon has requested an extension from the United States Federal Communications Commission to meet a July 2026 deadline requiring the deployment of approximately 1,600 internet satellites.

The company aims to activate more satellites to launch its space-based internet service, recently rebranded as Amazon Leo, a project backed by at least $10 billion in funding.

In a filing made public Friday, Amazon cited delays beyond its control, including a “shortage in the near-term availability” of rockets, manufacturing disruptions, failed or grounded launch vehicles, and limited spaceport capacity, as reasons for seeking more time.

“Leo is producing satellites considerably faster than others can launch them,” the company wrote.

Amazon is now requesting a 24-month extension, moving the deadline to July 2028, or for the FCC to waive its requirement that roughly half of its 3,236 low Earth satellites be deployed.

The company first announced plans in 2019 to build a constellation of low Earth satellites aimed at delivering high-speed, low-latency internet to consumers, businesses, and governments. Connections would be provided through square-shaped terminals.

The company noted that several of its partners have achieved major launch milestones with their rockets over the past year.

“Not withstanding this progress, the development timelines for these next-generation vehicles have extended beyond initial projections, contributing to Amazon Leo’s deployment delays,” Amazon stated.

Since April, Amazon has launched over 150 satellites and expects to deploy around 700 by July 30, which would move it from the third- to the second-largest satellite constellation in orbit.

Its next launch is scheduled for February 12, when 32 more satellites will be sent into space aboard a rocket operated by French company Arianespace.