EchoStar Moves Forward with $23 Billion Spectrum Sale to AT&T, Aims to Address FCC Inquiries

EchoStar Completes $23 Billion Spectrum Deal with AT&T

In a landmark deal announced on August 26, 2025, EchoStar Corporation has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its spectrum licenses, which include the 3.45 GHz and 600 MHz frequencies, to AT&T for approximately $23 billion. This transaction marks a significant step in addressing ongoing inquiries posed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regarding spectrum utilization.

The deal comprises a total of 50 MHz of nationwide spectrum. Following the sale, Boost Mobile will continue to maintain its competitive edge in the U.S. wireless market as a hybrid mobile network operator (MNO). This strategic partnership allows Boost Mobile subscribers to access connectivity through a cloud-native 5G core linked to AT&T's expansive cell towers, establishing a robust infrastructure to meet consumer demands.

Charlie Ergen, co-founder and chairman of EchoStar, expressed pride in the EchoStar team's rapid deployment of what is recognized as the world's first Open RAN network, especially during the challenging period influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized that EchoStar and Boost Mobile have successfully met all regulatory milestones required by the FCC, paving the way for this crucial spectrum sale to AT&T and the hybrid MNO agreement.

Once finalized, the sale will enable AT&T to deploy the purchased spectrum promptly to consumers across the nation. AT&T will also have the opportunity to lease portions of the spectrum in the interim period leading up to the closing of the transaction. This flexible arrangement aims to benefit both AT&T and Boost Mobile users, ensuring uninterrupted service during the transition.

Hamid Akhavan, the CEO of EchoStar, elaborated on the transaction's significance, stating, "This transaction presents our business with a sturdy financial trajectory, propelling EchoStar toward long-term viability and enhancing our innovation capabilities as a hybrid network operator." The proceeds from this sale are projected to facilitate various initiatives, including addressing certain debt obligations and promoting the company's growth strategies.

Under the new hybrid MNO infrastructure, Boost Mobile subscribers will continue to enjoy connectivity primarily provided via AT&T's extensive network, while still retaining access to T-Mobile's network. This dual connectivity offers an advantage to Boost Mobile customers, ensuring that they experience no service disruptions as a result of this transition. Over time, some elements of Boost Mobile's radio access network (RAN) will be phased out as the new network structure takes shape.

As the agreement awaits necessary regulatory approvals, EchoStar assures that its other businesses—including DISH Network, Sling TV, and Hughes Technologies—will remain unaffected by the transaction. The closing will occur when all required approvals are secured and closing conditions met, signaling a significant realignment of both EchoStar's and AT&T's operational frameworks.

About EchoStar Corporation

EchoStar Corporation (Nasdaq: SATS) stands as a premier provider of advanced technology, networking services, and television entertainment solutions globally. With recognized brands, including EchoStar®, Boost Mobile®, Sling TV, DISH TV, Hughes®, HughesNet®, HughesON™, and JUPITER™, the company operates worldwide, including in Europe under EchoStar Mobile Limited and in Australia as EchoStar Global Australia. For further insights into EchoStar's offerings, visit their official website at www.echostar.com and engage with them on social media platforms like X (Twitter) and LinkedIn.