STMicro says Starlink chip deliveries could double within two years

STMicroelectronics (STM) has shipped more than 5 billion radio-frequency antenna chips to SpaceX for its Starlink satellite network over the past decade. Volumes delivered under the partnership in the next two years could double that total, a senior company executive said.

The disclosure highlights the scale of a long-running commercial relationship that has become a significant driver of STMicroelectronics’ specialised chip business. The collaboration dates back to around 2015, when the satellite network was in its early stages.

Remi El-Ouazzane, president of STMicroelectronics’ microcontrollers and digital integrated circuits division, said shipments tied to Starlink user terminals have grown rapidly. He said the volumes achieved over the past 10 years could be matched again within the next two years, without giving specific targets.

STMicroelectronics supplies radio-frequency “front-end modules,” also described as antenna elements, used in Starlink user terminals. These components are based on BiCMOS technology and are designed to support high data rates required for satellite communications.

El-Ouazzane said he expects other low-Earth orbit satellite operators to adopt similar technology. He pointed to growing interest from multiple players as the space sector expands beyond government-led programmes.

The broader space industry is undergoing a shift toward commercial activity. Companies such as SpaceX, Eutelsat’s OneWeb and Amazon, which is planning its own low-Earth orbit network, are driving demand for satellite services.

This expansion is increasing the need for specialised semiconductors capable of operating in harsh space environments while supporting large volumes of data transmission. STMicroelectronics has positioned itself as a supplier to meet those requirements.

Starlink currently operates in more than 150 markets worldwide and has around 8 million users, according to information published on its website. The network relies on a large and growing number of satellites and user terminals.

Looking ahead, STMicroelectronics is set to supply inter-satellite laser links for SpaceX platforms. The company is also working with European aerospace and satellite groups, including Thales and Eutelsat.

Those efforts include involvement in projects linked to the European Union’s planned Iris 2 satellite constellation. The programme aims to expand secure and resilient satellite communications across Europe.