SpaceX Acquires More Echostar Spectrum to Accelerate Starlink Direct-to-Cell Network
EchoStar has agreed to sell its entire unpaired AWS-3 spectrum license portfolio to SpaceX for approximately $2.6 billion in SpaceX stock, advancing the development of a next-generation Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellite constellation.
The nationwide licenses, part of 3GPP Band 70n (1695–1710 MHz uplink), will complement SpaceX’s existing AWS-4 and H-block, spectrum acquired by SpaceX from Echostar in a $17 billion deal announced in September, to create one of the most comprehensive spectrum holdings for direct-to-device (D2D) mobile broadband globally. The combined assets will underpin SpaceX’s plan to deliver 4G and 5G-compatible satellite connectivity directly to standard smartphones, integrating with terrestrial mobile networks.
EchoStar CEO Hamid Akhavan said the transaction strengthens the company’s strategic position and shareholder value while supporting the delivery of cost-effective global D2D services.
The deal — pending regulatory approval — underscores growing industry momentum behind hybrid terrestrial–non-terrestrial mobile architectures, as satellite operators secure spectrum to deliver mass-market, standards-based cellular connectivity from orbit.