In a blockbuster move that could reshape the U.S. wireless landscape, EchoStar Corp., parent of Dish Network, announced Tuesday it will sell a hefty block of spectrum licenses to AT&T in a $23 billion all-cash transaction. The deal marks one of the largest spectrum sales in years, placing fresh firepower in AT&T’s 5G arsenal while setting EchoStar on a more stable financial course.
A Spectrum Shake-Up Worth Billions
The deal includes EchoStar’s 3.45 GHz and 600 MHz spectrum licenses—amounting to 50 MHz of nationwide coverage across more than 400 U.S. markets. AT&T said the acquisition will supercharge its 5G wireless and home internet services, while EchoStar said the proceeds will be used to retire debt and fund growth initiatives.
“This transaction puts our business on a solid financial path, further facilitating EchoStar’s long-term success,” said EchoStar CEO Hamid Akhavan. “We continue to evaluate strategic opportunities for our remaining spectrum portfolio in partnership with the U.S. government and industry participants.”
