Starlink challenges Big Three US carriers with 80,000 cell sites

Starlink is mounting a direct challenge to America's three major mobile carriers. Elon Musk's SpaceX is reportedly pursuing access to at least 80,000 cell sites across the U.S. in a move to build Starlink into a wireless carrier that competes head-to-head with Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. SpaceX is said to be negotiating tower leases with major telecom infrastructure companies, with Crown Castle — which owns and operates roughly 40,000 towers nationwide — also mentioned as a potential negotiating partner. When asked on an Oct. 21 earnings call whether SpaceX or other satellite operators were among those discussing leases, Crown Castle CEO Chris Hilbrands declined to comment, saying only, "You can assume we are talking with all parties."

The reason Starlink is seeking ground-based cell sites despite owning satellites lies in the structure of wireless infrastructure. Cell towers are core infrastructure that connects mobile phones wherever you are in the country. Carriers typically expand coverage not by building their own towers, but by renting space on existing ones.

That said, the talks are reportedly still in the early stages. SpaceX has not officially confirmed any contracts related to the 80,000 cell sites.