In a landmark transaction poised to reshape the US wireless market, EchoStar Corporation has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its nationwide 3.45 GHz and 600 MHz spectrum licenves to AT&T for approximately $23 billion, pending regulatory approval.
The deal includes 50 MHz of spectrum and marks a strategic shift in EchoStar’s network operations and financial positioning.
As part of the agreement, EchoStar and AT&T have amended their network services arrangement to establish a hybrid mobile network operator (MNO) model for Boost Mobile, EchoStar’s wireless brand. Under this model, Boost Mobile will continue to operate using its cloud-native 5G core, while leveraging AT&T’s extensive cell site infrastructure for primary connectivity. Subscribers will also retain access to the T-Mobile network, ensuring uninterrupted service during the transition.
“This spectrum sale to AT&T and hybrid MNO agreement are critical steps toward resolving the FCC’s spectrum utilization concerns,” said Charlie Ergen, EchoStar co-founder and chairman. “I’m proud of our team for deploying the world’s first Open RAN network in record time and meeting all FCC buildout milestones.”
The transaction is part of EchoStar’s broader strategy to streamline operations and address inquiries from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The proceeds will be used to retire debt, fund ongoing operations, and support future growth initiatives, according to EchoStar CEO Hamid Akhavan.
“This deal puts our business on a solid financial path and enhances our ability to innovate and compete,” Akhavan said. “We continue to evaluate strategic opportunities for our remaining spectrum portfolio in partnership with the U.S. government and industry stakeholders.”
The sale will also lead to the gradual decommissioning of Boost Mobile’s radio access network (RAN) infrastructure, as the brand transitions fully to a hybrid model. Despite the structural changes, Boost Mobile subscribers are expected to experience no disruption in service.
AT&T, which has the option to lease the spectrum prior to closing, is expected to rapidly deploy the newly acquired spectrum to enhance coverage and capacity for U.S. consumers nationwide.
EchoStar confirmed that its other businesses—including DISH TV, Sling, and Hughes—will remain unaffected by the transaction.
The deal underscores a growing trend in the telecom sector toward network consolidation, cloud-native infrastructure, and strategic spectrum monetization, as operators seek to balance innovation with operational efficiency in an increasingly competitive market.
