SpaceX Strikes $17 Billion Deal to Acquire EchoStar Spectrum and Expand Starlink Capabilities

▤ Summary

SpaceX has agreed to acquire wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar in a deal worth about $17 billion. The transaction gives SpaceX AWS-4 and H-block spectrum that will support Starlink and its direct-to-cell ambitions. SpaceX will pay with cash, stock, and debt-interest commitments, and it will also form a long-term commercial partnership that lets EchoStar’s Boost Mobile customers use next-generation Starlink Direct-to-Cell services. The deal should help SpaceX reduce dependence on terrestrial carrier partners and accelerate rollout of its satellite mobile service, pending regulatory approval.

▦ Linked Companies