SpaceX agrees to buy EchoStar's AWS-4 and H-block spectrum for direct-to-cell service

SpaceX/Starlink

SpaceX agreed on September 8 to buy EchoStar's AWS-4 and H-block spectrum licenses for approximately $17 billion—$8.5 billion in cash and $8.5 billion in SpaceX stock—plus $2 billion in debt-interest funding through 2027. The acquisition accelerates Starlink direct-to-cell capability and launches a long-term partnership with Boost Mobile.

• Price: ~$17 billion ($8.5B cash, $8.5B SpaceX stock); additional $2B debt-interest coverage through Nov 2027.
• Purpose: SpaceX will develop next-generation Starlink direct-to-cell constellation using AWS-4 and H-block bands.
• Boost Mobile partnership: EchoStar and SpaceX integrate Boost subscribers into next-gen Starlink DTC service.
• Commercial benefit: expanded mobile coverage, especially in underserved and remote areas via satellite connectivity.