In a significant development for its ambitious Project Kuiper, Amazon has announced plans to build and ship over 3,000 satellites from a new facility. The satellites will form the initial satellite constellation and will be integrated with dispenser systems from Beyond Gravity and rocket fairings from Blue Origin, United Launch Alliance (ULA), and SpaceX.

Most of the satellites will be sent to the new processing facility at Kennedy Space Center in Florida, where they will undergo integration before launch. The remaining satellites will be shipped to the Guiana Space Center in French Guiana for launch onboard the all-new Ariane 6 rocket from Arianespace.

The first completed production satellites are expected to be shipped this summer, with the first full-scale Kuiper mission scheduled for the fourth quarter aboard an Atlas V rocket from ULA. Project Kuiper aims to increase satellite production and deployment rates leading up to 2025, with a goal to begin offering service to customers next year.

The satellite manufacturing facility, located in Kirkland, Washington, is part of Amazon's broader investment in the Puget Sound region. The company's commitment to job creation is showcased through its employment of more than 120 individuals to operate the factory, halfway toward its target of creating 200 high-skilled manufacturing jobs.

To meet the demand for a specialized workforce, Amazon has partnered with the Lake Washington Institute of Technology to develop a satellite manufacturing certification program. This program aims to cultivate a local talent pipeline and provide opportunities for individuals interested in advanced manufacturing.

The Kirkland facility also receives support from national, state, and local leaders who recognize the significance of Project Kuiper for job creation and bridging the digital divide. Senator Maria Cantwell, Washington Governor Jay Inslee, and Kirkland Mayor Kelli Curtis have all expressed enthusiasm for the project's potential to stimulate economic growth and create opportunities for residents.

In a statement, Brian Huseman, Vice President of Public Policy and Community Engagement at Amazon, expressed gratitude for the support and partnership of local leaders in closing the digital divide and generating jobs. He also highlighted the company's commitment to tapping into the exceptional local talent pool, showcasing the opportunities created by advanced manufacturing.

Governor Inslee acknowledged the role of Project Kuiper in expanding access to affordable and high-speed broadband while creating well-paying jobs in Washington state. Mayor Curtis of Kirkland expressed gratitude to Amazon for supporting the local economy and emphasized the positive impact of manufacturing satellites on the city's economic growth and workforce development.

As Project Kuiper progresses, Amazon's manufacturing operations receive support from 190 suppliers in Washington state, further bolstering the local economy and solidifying the region's position in the emerging space industry.

With its focus on satellite manufacturing and job creation, Project Kuiper demonstrates Amazon's commitment to innovation and growth while contributing to the local community's prosperity.

NOTE: The provided information did not mention anything about probes used for quality control, as mentioned in the context. Therefore, it has not been included in the article.