Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite connectivity subsidiary, has taken a significant step in transforming the European telecommunications market. Elon Musk’s company has just completed the purchase of key spectrum licenses that will allow it to operate independently in Spain and much of Europe, without relying on agreements with traditional carriers. The deal, valued at around 17 billion euros, includes the acquisition of frequencies previously held by EchoStar in our country, paving the way for the deployment of the highly anticipated Direct to Cell with 5G NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks) service.
The Shift from Satellite 4G to 5G NTN
Until now, Starlink’s satellite mobile connectivity relied on agreements with local operators. Its first-generation Direct to Cell service is already available in nine countries, enabling standard 4G phones to connect to satellites orbiting approximately 360 kilometers above Earth. However, in Europe, deployment was very limited, except in Ukraine, due to strict regulations on using mobile frequencies from space.
With this acquisition, Starlink breaks that barrier and positions itself as a full-fledged mobile provider. Thanks to spectrum in the 2 GHz band — the only harmonized spectrum in the European Union for this purpose — it can offer satellite 5G services directly to users without intermediaries.
A Spectrum with History and Now More Valuable Than Ever
In 2009, the European Union granted two licenses for 2×15 MHz of mobile satellite communications in the S-band, valid for 18 years. Over time, these licenses ended up in the hands of U.S. companies Viasat and EchoStar.
The landscape shifted in 2022 with Release 17 of the 5G standard, which incorporated the concept of non-terrestrial networks (5G NTN). Since then, frequencies in bands n255 and n256 have increased significantly in value, as mobile device manufacturers began producing compatible devices en masse.
In Spain, EchoStar Mobile Limited has held the license M ZZ-1100365 since 2011, with 15 MHz in the uplink band (1995-2010 MHz) and another 15 MHz in the downlink (2185-2200 MHz). With this deal, this valuable resource now falls under Starlink’s control.
Second-Generation Direct to Cell: More Speed and Capacity
Starlink’s new phase relies on a constellation of 600 low Earth orbit satellites dedicated to direct mobile connectivity. These satellites complement the over 8,000 already part of the Starlink network, interconnected via laser links to ensure global coverage.
With the new spectrum, SpaceX announces the arrival of second-generation Direct to Cell, which promises to deliver:
- 20 times faster data speeds.
- 100 times more network capacity.
- Global coverage with quality comparable to terrestrial 4G.
Additionally, Starlink plans to launch its own mobile service with built-in eSIM, allowing users to set it up as a secondary line. This would keep users connected even when the primary network fails — a crucial advantage during emergencies or in rural areas.
Implications for the Spanish and European Markets
Starlink’s entry as an independent mobile operator marks a major shake-up. Until now, the industry was controlled by large groups like Telefónica, Orange, Vodafone, and MásMóvil, all dependent on terrestrial infrastructure. With Starlink’s arrival into 5G via satellite, a new scenario opens where:
- Coverage gaps are eliminated: from rural and mountainous areas to maritime zones.
- Competition options expand: users can directly subscribe to Starlink without roaming agreements or third-party deals.
- Innovation accelerates: integrating terrestrial and satellite networks natively will push the development of 5G and future 6G technologies.
In Spain, satellite coverage could prove vital for ensuring connectivity in underserved areas, where fiber and terrestrial 5G deployment remain limited or unprofitable for traditional providers.
A Strategic $17 Billion Deal
The agreement with EchoStar is valued at about 17 billion euros, with roughly half paid in cash and the other half in SpaceX shares. Additionally, SpaceX will assume up to 2 billion euros in interest payments on EchoStar’s debt through 2027.
This move not only grants Starlink control over critical spectrum in Europe and the U.S., but also accelerates its vision: eliminating “dead zones” in global mobile connectivity.
Emergencies and Real-World Uses: From Natural Disasters to Everyday Life
Starlink’s Direct to Cell service isn’t just theoretical; its first generation has already proven vital during emergencies. During hurricanes, floods, or wildfires across the U.S., over 1.5 million people were able to communicate thanks to this service when terrestrial networks collapsed.
In New Zealand, a woman was able to alert emergency services about an accident in a coverage-deprived zone thanks to Starlink’s satellite connection, enabling rapid intervention. These cases highlight the system’s potential as a global safety net.
Future Vision: Integrating Mobile, IoT, and Applications
Beyond calls and messages, Starlink is collaborating with device manufacturers and app developers to enable its network for social media platforms, instant messaging, maps, and weather services. It also supports Internet of Things (IoT) applications, spanning connected agriculture and maritime transport.
The rollout of second-generation Direct to Cell satellites, with increased capacity and native 5G support, paves the way for users to enjoy a network experience nearly identical to terrestrial with global coverage in just a few years.
Conclusion: A New Era in Mobile Connectivity
By acquiring these licenses, Starlink not only becomes Europe’s first independent satellite mobile operator, but also redefines our understanding of connectivity. In a continent with strict regulations and a market dominated by a few giants, the entry of a global player like SpaceX could accelerate competition, improve coverage, and bridge the digital divide.
In Spain, the license valid until 2027 offers Starlink a unique opportunity to deploy its technology and attract users. If it overcomes regulatory hurdles and convinces consumers of its value, satellite 5G could become a daily reality sooner than expected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Starlink Direct to Cell and how does it work in Spain?
It’s Starlink’s mobile connectivity service allowing standard phones to connect directly to low Earth orbit satellites. Having acquired spectrum licenses in Spain, Starlink will operate as an independent mobile provider without relying on agreements with other carriers.
When will satellite 5G be available in Spain?
Although Starlink already holds licenses, regulatory adjustments are pending. The service is expected to begin phased deployment before 2027, when the current EchoStar license expires.
What advantages will Starlink’s NTN 5G have over current mobile networks?
It will provide coverage in areas where terrestrial networks don’t reach, offering higher capacity and speeds comparable to 4G and 5G. It will also serve as backup during emergencies.
Will users need special phones to connect to Starlink?
No. The service is designed for regular phones, using a secondary eSIM. Users won’t need to change devices or install additional apps.
Sources: Starlink Updates, bandaancha, and EchoStar