Amazon’s Kuiper may help Taiwan strengthen internet resilience
In an effort to boost its communication systems, Taiwan is engaging in discussions with Amazon over a potential partnership involving its advanced Kuiper satellite network.
Taiwan is in discussions with Amazon to potentially collaborate on the company’s Kuiper satellite broadband system, according to Technology Minister Wu Cheng-wen. The Kuiper project, designed to deploy a constellation of over 3,000 satellites, is seen as a crucial step for Taiwan to ensure robust communication infrastructure amid escalating tensions with China. The island has been exploring satellite internet solutions to maintain connectivity in the event of a conflict, drawing lessons from Ukraine’s use of Starlink during wartime.
Minister Wu noted that Taiwan’s existing satellite bandwidth is limited and described Amazon’s Kuiper as the most advanced option currently under development. While Taiwan is considering partnerships with other Western providers, Amazon’s readiness makes it a leading candidate. Amazon has not yet commented on the discussions.
Taiwan has also been launching its own satellites using foreign rockets but aims to establish a domestic launch pad by 2029. A location in the southeast of the island is being evaluated, with a decision expected by March. This initiative underscores Taiwan’s commitment to building self-reliant space capabilities while safeguarding its communication networks in an increasingly volatile geopolitical climate.
About author
DW Team
The GIP Digital Watch Observatory team, consisting of over 30 digital policy experts from around the world, excels in the fields of research and analysis on digital policy issues. The team is backed by the creative prowess of Creative Lab Diplo and the technical expertise of the Diplo tech team.