SpaceX has partnered with Qualcomm to equip ground stations for Starlink Mobile, its planned 5G network in the United States. The rollout is expected to begin in 2027 and expand gradually across the country in the years that follow.
Qualcomm will provide its Dragonwing QRU100 and QDU100 platforms, along with Layer 1 software, for the network’s base stations. The technology will process network data and support communication between the stations and connected devices.
The stations will use Massive MIMO with 64 transmit and 64 receive paths. The system uses multiple antennas to handle more simultaneous connections and make more efficient use of spectrum, potentially increasing network capacity.
Starlink plans to combine its satellite service with tens of thousands of ground-based sites. The company says the integrated infrastructure is intended to extend coverage and help maintain connections in areas where conventional mobile networks have limitations, including during travel.
Qualcomm executive vice president Durga Malladi said the platforms bring together Massive MIMO capabilities, dedicated processing and commercial-grade Layer 1 software. Starlink vice president of engineering Michael Nicolls said the partnership would help advance the design of the base-station architecture.
The companies also say the network is designed to support multiple frequency bands, phased infrastructure expansion and more efficient power use at its sites.
Sources: Canaltech.