SpaceX Expands Starlink with New Spectrum Licenses

SpaceX is expanding its Starlink satellite internet service through the acquisition of additional spectrum licenses from EchoStar. According to TechCrunch, this latest deal is valued at $2.6 billion and is part of a broader $17 billion agreement established in September.

This expansion comes as SpaceX has recently announced that it has surpassed 8 million global customers, a significant milestone for the satellite internet service. The acquisition of these spectrum licenses is crucial for enhancing Starlink's capabilities, particularly in developing its direct-to-cell constellation, which initially allows T-Mobile customers to access satellite-based 5G internet.

EchoStar has been under pressure from the Federal Communications Commission to either utilize its extensive spectrum holdings or divest them, which led to this sale. Earlier this year, EchoStar sold $23 billion worth of spectrum licenses to AT&T as part of its divestment strategy.

The newly acquired AWS-3 spectrum licenses will provide frequencies essential for commercial wireless services, including mobile and satellite communications in the U.S. Engadget reports that the deal is currently pending regulatory approval, as no specific closing date has been shared.

The strategic move by SpaceX also includes new commercial partnerships; for instance, International Airlines Group announced plans to install Starlink internet on over 500 aircraft within its portfolio, which includes major airlines like British Airways and Iberia.

This partnership will roll out Starlink on various routes starting in 2026. Starlink's presence in the aviation sector has been rapidly growing, with recent deals including Hawaiian Airlines and United Airlines, which expedited their integration of Starlink services.

With more than 8 million customers across 150 countries, SpaceX's Starlink continues to solidify its position as a leader in satellite internet services, enhancing global connectivity and the future of space-based communications.