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SpaceX has finalized a $17 billion agreement to acquire EchoStar Corporation’s AWS-4 and H-block spectrum licenses, marking one of the largest spectrum transactions in U.S. history. The deal includes up to $8.5 billion in cash and an equivalent amount in SpaceX stock, along with a commitment to cover approximately $2 billion in EchoStar’s debt interest payments through November 2027.
The acquisition strengthens SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network, enabling the development of next-generation Direct-to-Cell services aimed at eliminating mobile dead zones worldwide. As part of the agreement, EchoStar’s Boost Mobile subscribers will gain access to Starlink’s satellite connectivity through a long-term commercial partnership.
EchoStar had faced regulatory pressure from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) over underutilized spectrum assets, prompting the sale. The transaction is expected to resolve ongoing FCC inquiries and support EchoStar’s financial restructuring efforts.
SpaceX’s move underscores its ambition to expand satellite-based mobile services and reshape global communications infrastructure.
