SpaceX teams up with Qualcomm to build 5G base stations, Starlink Mobile to enter the US mobile communications market next year.

November 4th - SpaceX has reached a multi-year cooperation agreement with Qualcomm to adopt Qualcomm's Dragonwing cellular network infrastructure hardware and software to build ground base stations for its mobile communication service Starlink Mobile, with deployment planned to begin in 2027. Qualcomm stated that this is its largest 5G project to date, and both parties also hope to lay the foundation for future AI-native 6G networks. The specific amount of the agreement has not been disclosed.

SpaceX plans to build tens of thousands of new base stations to supplement the coverage capability of the Starlink satellite network and further challenge traditional U.S. mobile operators such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. Previously, SpaceX had announced the acquisition of nationwide 800 MHz spectrum assets and was reported to be in negotiations with EchoStar to acquire Boost Mobile.

Starlink currently contributes approximately 36% of SpaceX's third-quarter revenue and 85% of its operating profit. This cooperation with Qualcomm means that SpaceX is further expanding from satellite direct-to-cell services to ground-based mobile communication networks.