The competition for radio frequencies—especially those enabling mobile communications—has become one of the defining fronts of the new space economy. Control of the spectrum now determines not only who connects the planet, but who shapes the architecture of global information, defense, and digital sovereignty.
1. The Spectrum Deal: Verified Facts
In September 2025, SpaceX announced the acquisition of wireless spectrum licenses from EchoStar—specifically the AWS-4 and H-block bands around the 2 GHz range—for a total value of about $17 billion (half in cash, half in SpaceX stock).
The deal includes a commercial agreement allowing EchoStar’s mobile subsidiary, Boost Mobile, to access Starlink’s services via the new direct-to-cell system. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) played a crucial role, since EchoStar had been under scrutiny for underusing parts of the 2 GHz band and facing deployment obligations for 5G coverage.
2. Direct-to-Cell Ambitions and Current Limitations
SpaceX’s goal is to extend Starlink so that ordinary smartphones can connect directly to satellites—no ground towers required. Early beta tests in the U.S. already allow limited text-based connectivity.
European telecom operators, however, have raised concerns about interference between satellite and terrestrial networks in the same frequency bands, urging tighter regulatory coordination.
The direct-to-cell model is still technically experimental—limited bandwidth, low data rates, and atmospheric constraints make it a complement, not a replacement, to terrestrial mobile networks.
3. Regulation, Competition, and Digital Sovereignty
At the global level, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) governs the allocation and coordination of radio frequencies for satellite systems. Every operator serving multiple countries must comply with its rules.
There is no confirmed “global war” between SpaceX and national governments at the ITU, but regulatory frictions exist: several countries are cautious about granting licenses that could reduce their control over national communications infrastructure.
This tension lies at the core of the modern concept of digital sovereignty—the ability of States to decide who provides critical connectivity within their borders.
4. Security and Dual-Use Implications
Large satellite constellations like Starlink are inherently dual-use systems, serving both civilian and defense purposes. Starlink’s use in Ukraine for military communications has already demonstrated the strategic relevance of private networks in wartime conditions.
While the Pentagon collaborates with SpaceX for launch and data-transport capabilities, there is no official evidence that the U.S. government intends to rely exclusively on private infrastructure for defense. The relationship remains hybrid—mutually dependent but still regulated.
5. Europe’s Strategic Response: IRIS²
Europe’s answer to the American satellite dominance is the IRIS² program (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite), designed to ensure European strategic autonomy in space-based communications.
The contract for IRIS² was awarded to the SpaceRISE consortium (Eutelsat, Hispasat, SES) and supported by national space agencies. Unlike Starlink’s massive low-Earth-orbit network, IRIS² plans a mixed constellation (LEO + MEO) focused on secure, government-grade communications.
Eutelsat recently announced a €1.5 billion capital increase, supported by France and the U.K., to strengthen Europe’s industrial base. Meanwhile, Ukraine, the U.K., and Norway are expected to join IRIS² to reduce dependency on Starlink.
6. A New Orbital Order—But Not Yet a New Empire
The “frequency battle” between SpaceX and EchoStar symbolizes the transition from the old, state-regulated space economy to a new hybrid era, where private actors operate at strategic scale.
SpaceX’s acquisition of the 2 GHz spectrum gives it a major advantage in the race to deliver global mobile connectivity. Yet, the vision of a fully privatized orbital monopoly remains far from reality: national regulators, the ITU, and emerging programs like IRIS² all act as counterweights.
What is emerging, however, is a new equilibrium—an orbital order where technological innovation, commercial power, and national sovereignty constantly negotiate their boundaries.
In short: the “frequency battle” is not just a corporate deal. It is a glimpse into how 21st-century power will be exercised—not over land or seas, but over the invisible electromagnetic highways that connect the planet.