EchoStar Corporation has agreed to sell its nationwide unpaired AWS-3 spectrum licenses to SpaceX for approximately $2.6 billion in SpaceX stock, based on valuation metrics from September 2025. The agreement amends a prior deal reached between the companies earlier this year. It represents a key part of SpaceX’s plan to build and deploy its next-generation Starlink Direct to Cell satellite constellation.
The spectrum being sold is part of 3GPP Band 70n, covering uplink frequencies in the 1695 to 1710 MHz range. With this acquisition, SpaceX will combine the AWS-3 licenses with AWS-4 and H-block spectrum licenses it is also obtaining from EchoStar. Together, this combined spectrum position is expected to support large-scale satellite-to-cell connectivity growth across consumer, enterprise, and mobility markets.
EchoStar stated that the transaction supports its broader strategic objectives, including creating new business opportunities and driving long-term shareholder value. The company reiterated that this spectrum sale and related commercial agreements align with ongoing efforts to strengthen growth in connectivity solutions and wireless service offerings.
The closing of the transaction is subject to regulatory approval and the satisfaction of standard closing conditions. EchoStar confirmed that the deal will not affect current operations across its consumer and enterprise service platforms, including DISH TV, Sling TV, Boost Mobile, and Hughes.
EchoStar continues to operate a broad communications portfolio, providing technology, networking services, broadband connectivity, and pay-TV solutions across the United States, Europe, and Australia under brands including Boost Mobile, EchoStar, Hughes, Sling TV, DISH TV, HughesNet, and JUPITER.
KEY QUOTES:
“This transaction with SpaceX, in addition to our previously announced spectrum transactions and commercial agreements, will strengthen EchoStar’s ability to develop new business opportunities and growth in value for our shareholders. The combination of AWS-3 uplink, AWS-4 and H-block spectrum from EchoStar with the rocket launch and satellite manufacturing capabilities from SpaceX accelerates the realization of powerful and economical direct-to-cell service offerings for consumers and enterprises worldwide, including our Boost Mobile customers.”
Hamid Akhavan, CEO, EchoStar Capital
