SpaceX to Build Ground Network, Compete With U.S. Wireless Carriers, Plans 2027 Satellite Launch

SpaceX announced plans during its first post-listing earnings call to build ground infrastructure to complement its satellite internet service, putting it in direct competition with the three major U. S. mobile carriers. Company President Gwynne Shotwell said on the call that the company aims to turn Starlink Mobile into a full-fledged mobile operator and plans to attract customers from AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile. Currently, Starlink Mobile serves primarily as a satellite backup network for phone carriers, providing connectivity to phones in remote areas or emergencies via satellite. SpaceX is partnering with T-Mobile to offer satellite-to-cellular connectivity through the T-Satellite service, but that service cannot fully replace standard 4G or 5G plans. To build a true mobile service, SpaceX plans to construct a ground network alongside its satellite system. Shotwell said the company could leverage Starlink antennas to deploy cellular base stations that are lower-cost and smaller in size, and build the necessary hardware and systems. Chief Executive Elon Musk said the new network would offer better connectivity and higher bandwidth than existing cellular carriers, without requiring the deployment of large, expensive base stations that are difficult to site. Shotwell also said the company plans to launch next-generation Starlink Mobile satellites in 2027, with upgraded service beginning by the end of that year, offering performance 100 times better than current Starlink Mobile. In addition, in May 2026, the U. Federal Communications Commission approved the transfer of EchoStar spectrum to SpaceX, enabling the company to use that spectrum for satellite, ground, or hybrid applications.