#USA #SpaceX #Englewood #EchoStar #AWS-3 License

EchoStar Sells AWS-3 Spectrum Portfolio to SpaceX

In a significant development announced on November 6, 2025, EchoStar Corporation revealed that it has entered an agreement with SpaceX to divest its unpaired AWS-3 licenses for a valuation of approximately $2.6 billion in SpaceX stock. This transaction represents an expansion of a previous arrangement established between the two companies in September.

The unpaired AWS-3 licenses, which fall under the 3GPP Band 70n (1695-1710 MHz uplink), are nationwide and form a critical component of the spectrum landscape.

Hamid Akhavan, CEO of EchoStar, expressed enthusiasm regarding the transaction, asserting that this agreement, alongside other spectrum transactions and commercial engagements, will enable EchoStar to explore new business avenues and enhance shareholder value. Akhavan highlighted that the combination of the AWS-3 uplink spectrum with existing AWS-4 and H-block licenses, coupled with SpaceX's advanced rocket launch capabilities, paves the way for the creation of cost-effective direct-to-cell services tailored for consumers and businesses worldwide. Notably, this includes enhancements for Boost Mobile users.

The completion of this transaction is contingent upon receiving the necessary regulatory approvals and meeting other closing conditions, although the ongoing operations of EchoStar’s various brands—DISH TV, Sling TV, Boost Mobile, and Hughes—are expected to remain undisturbed amid these changes.

About EchoStar Corporation

EchoStar Corporation, traded under NASDAQ ticker SATS, stands as a leading provider of technologically advanced networking services and entertainment solutions across several sectors. Operating under well-known brands such as EchoStar®, Boost Mobile®, Sling TV, and HughesNet®, EchoStar serves a global customer base including consumers, enterprises, and governmental bodies. With a robust presence in Europe and Australia, EchoStar continues to expand its influence and service offerings throughout the telecommunications sector.

About SpaceX

Founded in 2002, SpaceX has transformed space technology with the ambitious goal of making life multi-planetary. Renowned for designing, manufacturing, and launching cutting-edge rockets and spacecraft, SpaceX is also recognized as the leading provider of launch services worldwide. The company’s development of Starlink, which incorporates direct-to-cell technology, aims to eradicate mobile dead zones globally, allowing seamless access to text, calls, and internet browsing for users on land, lakes, and coastal areas.

This deal marks a strategic move in the overlapping sectors of telecommunications and space technology, highlighting the increasing convergence and collaboration in these industries. As they push forward with innovative solutions, both companies are poised to make impactful contributions to global connectivity, addressing the demand for enhanced communication infrastructure in an increasingly digital world.