1. STMicroelectronics collaborates with SpaceX for Starlink chip design. 2. Over 8 million Starlink users benefit from ST's custom chips. 3. Collaboration ensures timely production of 20,000 terminals daily. 4. ST's BiCMOS technology powers high-speed internet through phased-array antennas. 5. Future designs focus on next-generation satellites and user terminals.
FAQ
Why Bullish?
ST's long-term partnership with SpaceX enhances its visibility and revenue potential. Historical performance shows that strong partnerships can significantly boost stock value, such as with recent deals enhancing market share in technology sectors.
How important is it?
This partnership underscores ST's role in a rapidly growing industry, thus influencing investor perception and future revenue growth potential. The technological advancements in satellite communication are likely to impact STM's market position favorably.
Why Long Term?
The ongoing development of next-gen products implies sustained growth and market momentum. Examples include companies like Qualcomm, which have benefited from long-term technology partnerships.
STMicroelectronics and SpaceX Celebrate a Decade of Partnership for Starlink Connectivity
On December 15, 2025, STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM) and SpaceX will celebrate ten years of collaboration that has driven innovation in satellite communications, particularly through the Starlink program. This partnership has been pivotal in revolutionizing broadband connectivity for homes and businesses via low Earth orbit satellites. Over the past decade, the collaboration has resulted in the creation of billions of custom-made components that power over 8 million Starlink users across more than 150 countries.
Key Achievements of the STM and SpaceX Collaboration
The partnership between STMicroelectronics and SpaceX has achieved several remarkable milestones:
- Produced billions of co-designed products utilized in Starlink user terminals.
- Manufactured over 10,000 Starlink satellites, including the advanced V3 satellite, providing more than 1 Tbps of fronthaul throughput.
- Enabled the production of more than 20,000 Starlink terminals per day to meet global demand.
ST’s BiCMOS chip technology has been integral to the development of high-performing phased-array antennas, making reliable high-speed internet accessible to customers worldwide.
The Impact on Global Connectivity
With a focus on delivering next-generation connectivity solutions, the Starlink user terminal stands out as the first consumer electronics phased array antenna that connects to thousands of satellites. The simplicity of setup—plugging it in and pointing it skyward—facilitates ease of use for customers. This streamlined installation process reflects SpaceX's commitment to high-rate manufacturing and agile supply chain operations.
According to Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO at SpaceX, “Our partnership with STMicroelectronics has been instrumental in enabling the scale and performance of Starlink. We are excited to continue this journey with ST to deliver next-generation connectivity solutions that improve education, healthcare, and business opportunities in underserved areas.”
STMicroelectronics’ Role in Starlink’s Growth
STMicroelectronics has played a critical role in scaling production to meet the high demand for Starlink connectivity. Remi El-Ouazzane, President of the Microcontrollers, Digital ICs, and RF Products Group at STMicroelectronics, stated, “Our close collaboration has been instrumental in realizing SpaceX’s ambitious mission. Through co-designing key chips and providing engineering services, we showcase the exceptional value of ST’s innovation capabilities.”
Products are co-designed with ST engineers from France and Italy, notable for their advanced BiCMOS technology. The collaboration has also focused on developing new manufacturing processes around PLP (panel level packaging) technology, achieving a significant delivery run rate of over 5 million chips daily.
Looking Ahead: Future Collaboration
The partnership will continue to evolve, focusing on enhancing next-generation satellites and user terminals. This ongoing collaboration is set to advance key enabling technologies for phased-array antennas powered by ST’s BiCMOS solutions.
In addition to supporting Starlink, STM's products include STM32, secure elements, and GNSS technologies integrated across the broadband satellites' constellation, direct-to-cell satellites, and ground infrastructure.
About Starlink and STMicroelectronics
Starlink is the most advanced satellite constellation in low-Earth orbit, delivering reliable broadband internet capable of supporting diverse applications such as streaming and online gaming. Operated by SpaceX, it is engineered to provide high-speed connectivity globally.
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in semiconductor technologies, serving over 200,000 customers with an integrated device manufacturing approach. The company is committed to sustainability and aims for carbon neutrality by 2027 while enhancing smart mobility and energy efficiency.
For more details about their innovations and contributions, visit www.starlink.com and www.st.com.