EchoStar is facing scrutiny regarding its compliance with construction deadlines set by the FCC for its 5G network. The company claims to reach over 80% of the U.S. population with more than 23,000 5G sites. However, VTel Wireless has filed a petition against EchoStar, stating it has been unable to meet previous commitments in light of its financial struggles and alleging that the FCC has secretly extended deadlines. The FCC has initiated an inquiry into EchoStar's use of the 2 GHz spectrum, inviting public input on the matter.
If SpaceX had done a basic search of public filings, it would know that EchoStar extensively utilizes the 2 GHz band and that the Commission itself has confirmed the coverage, utilization, and methodology for assessing the quality of EchoStar's 5G network based on independent drive-tests.
In this case, teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, EchoStar found itself unable to meet the commitments previously made to the Commission in connection with its approval of T-Mobile's merger with Sprint-an approval predicated on EchoStar constructing a fourth nationwide 5G broadband network by June 14, 2025.
Carr's letter said he asked FCC staff to investigate EchoStar's compliance with construction deadlines and 'to issue a public notice seeking comment on the scope and scale of MSS [mobile satellite service] utilization in the 2 GHz band that is currently licensed to EchoStar or its affiliates.'
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