10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

Form 10-Q

(Mark One)

☒QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED JUNE 30, 2017.

OR

☐TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM                               TO                                .

Commission File Number:  0-26176

DISH Network Corporation

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Nevada	88-0336997
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
9601 South Meridian Boulevard
Englewood, Colorado	80112
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip code)

(303) 723-1000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not Applicable

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes ☒   No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes ☒   No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company”  and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ☒	Accelerated filer ☐
Non-accelerated filer ☐ (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)	Smaller reporting company ☐ Emerging growth company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  ☐ No  ☒

As of July 26, 2017, the registrant’s outstanding common stock consisted of 227,677,198 shares of Class A common stock and 238,435,208 shares of Class Bcommon stock.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
	Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Statements	i
Item 1.	Financial Statements
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets — June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (Unaudited)	1
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) For the Three and Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (Unaudited)	2
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 (Unaudited)	3
	Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)	4
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	56
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	79
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	80
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	80
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	80
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	82
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	None
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	None
Item 5.	Other Information	82
Item 6.	Exhibits	83
	Signatures	84

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Unless otherwise required by the context, in this report, the words “DISH Network,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to DISH Network Corporation and its subsidiaries, “EchoStar” refers to EchoStar Corporation and its subsidiaries, and “DISH DBS” refers to DISH DBS Corporation, a wholly-owned, indirect subsidiary of DISH Network, and its subsidiaries.

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, in particular, statements about our plans, objectives and strategies, growth opportunities in our industries and businesses, our expectations regarding future results, financial condition, liquidity and capital requirements, our estimates regarding the impact of regulatory developments and legal proceedings, and other trends and projections.  Forward-looking statements are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as “future,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “predict,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “can,” “may,” and similar terms.  These forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and represent management’s current views and assumptions.  Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control.  Accordingly, actual performance, events or results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including, but not limited to, the following:

Competition and Economic Risks

· As the pay-TV industry has matured and bundled offers combining video, broadband and/or wireless services have become more prevalent and competitive, we face intense and increasing competition from providers of video, broadband and/or wireless services, which may require us to further increase subscriber acquisition and retention spending or accept lower subscriber activations and higher subscriber churn.

· Changing consumer behavior and competition from digital media companies that provide or facilitate the delivery of video content via the Internet may reduce our gross new subscriber activations and may cause our subscribers to purchase fewer services from us or to cancel our services altogether, resulting in less revenue to us.

· Economic weakness and uncertainty may adversely affect our ability to grow or maintain our business.

· Our competitors may be able to leverage their relationships with programmers to reduce their programming costs and/or offer exclusive content that will place them at a competitive advantage to us.

· Our over-the-top (“OTT”) Sling TV Internet-based services face certain risks, including, among others, significant competition.

· We face increasing competition from other distributors of unique programming services such as foreign language, sports programming, and original content that may limit our ability to maintain subscribers that desire these unique programming services.

Operational and Service Delivery Risks

· If our operational performance and customer satisfaction were to deteriorate, our gross new subscriber activations and our subscriber churn may be negatively impacted, which could in turn adversely affect our revenue.

· If our gross new subscriber activations continue to decrease, or if our subscriber churn, subscriber acquisition costs or retention costs increase, our financial performance will be adversely affected.

i

· Programming expenses are increasing and could adversely affect our future financial condition and results of operations.

· We depend on others to provide the programming that we offer to our subscribers and, if we fail to obtain or lose access to this programming, our gross new subscriber activations and our subscriber churn may be negatively impacted.

· We may not be able to obtain necessary retransmission consent agreements at acceptable rates, or at all, from local network stations.

· We may be required to make substantial additional investments to maintain competitive programming offerings.

· Any failure or inadequacy of our information technology infrastructure and communications systems, including without limitation those caused by cyber-attacks or other malicious activities, could disrupt or harm our business.

· We currently depend on EchoStar to provide the vast majority of our satellite transponder capacity and other related services to us.  Our business would be adversely affected if EchoStar ceases to provide these services to us and we are unable to obtain suitable replacement services from third parties.

· Technology in the pay-TV industry changes rapidly, and our success may depend in part on our timely introduction and implementation of, and effective investment in, new competitive products and services and more advanced equipment, and our failure to do so could cause our products and services to become obsolete and could negatively impact our business.

· We rely on a single vendor or a limited number of vendors to provide certain key products or services to us such as information technology support, billing systems, and security access devices, and the inability of these key vendors to meet our needs could have a material adverse effect on our business.

· We rely on a few suppliers and in some cases a single supplier for many components of our new set-top boxes, and any reduction or interruption in supplies or significant increase in the price of supplies could have a negative impact on our business.

· Our programming signals are subject to theft, and we are vulnerable to other forms of fraud that could require us to make significant expenditures to remedy.

· We depend on independent third parties to solicit orders for our services that represent a significant percentage of our total gross new subscriber activations.

· We have limited satellite capacity and failures or reduced capacity could adversely affect our DISH branded pay-TV service.

· Our owned and leased satellites are subject to construction, launch, operational and environmental risks that could limit our ability to utilize these satellites.

· We generally do not carry commercial launch or in-orbit insurance on any of the satellites that we use, other than certain satellites leased from third parties, and could face significant impairment charges if any of our owned satellites fail.

· We may have potential conflicts of interest with EchoStar due to our common ownership and management.

· We rely on key personnel and the loss of their services may negatively affect our business.

ii

Acquisition and Capital Structure Risks

· We have made substantial investments to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and other related assets.  In addition, we have made substantial non-controlling investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities related to AWS-3 wireless spectrum licenses.

· We face certain risks related to our non-controlling investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

· To the extent that we commercialize our wireless spectrum licenses, we will face certain risks entering and competing in the wireless services industry and operating a wireless services business.

· We may pursue acquisitions and other strategic transactions to complement or expand our business that may not be successful, and we may lose up to the entire value of our investment in these acquisitions and transactions.

· We may need additional capital, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, to continue investing in our business and to finance acquisitions and other strategic transactions.

· We have substantial debt outstanding and may incur additional debt.

· The conditional conversion features of our 3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026 (the “Convertible Notes due 2026”) and our 2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024 (the “Convertible Notes due 2024,” and collectively with the Convertible Notes due 2026, the “Convertible Notes”), if triggered, may adversely affect our financial condition.

· The convertible note hedge and warrant transactions that we entered into in connection with the offering of the Convertible Notes due 2026 may affect the value of the Convertible Notes due 2026 and our Class A common stock.

· We are subject to counterparty risk with respect to the convertible note hedge transactions.

· From time to time a portion of our investment portfolio may be invested in securities that have limited liquidity and may not be immediately accessible to support our financing needs, including investments in public companies that are highly speculative and have experienced and continue to experience volatility.

· It may be difficult for a third party to acquire us, even if doing so may be beneficial to our shareholders, because of our ownership structure.

· We are controlled by one principal stockholder who is also our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.

Legal and Regulatory Risks

· The rulings in the Do Not Call litigation requiring us to pay up to an aggregate amount of $341 million and imposing certain injunctive relief against us, if upheld, would have a material adverse effect on our cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities balances and our business operations.

· Our business depends on certain intellectual property rights and on not infringing the intellectual property rights of others.

· We are, and may become, party to various lawsuits which, if adversely decided, could have a significant adverse impact on our business, particularly lawsuits regarding intellectual property.

iii

· Our ability to distribute video content via the Internet, including our Sling TV services, involves regulatory risk.

· Changes in the Cable Act of 1992 (“Cable Act”), and/or the rules of the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) that implement the Cable Act, may limit our ability to access programming from cable-affiliated programmers at nondiscriminatory rates.

· The injunction against our retransmission of distant networks, which is currently waived, may be reinstated.

· We are subject to significant regulatory oversight, and changes in applicable regulatory requirements, including any adoption or modification of laws or regulations relating to the Internet, could adversely affect our business.

· Our business depends on FCC licenses that can expire or be revoked or modified and applications for FCC licenses that may not be granted.

· We are subject to digital high-definition (“HD”) “carry-one, carry-all” requirements that cause capacity constraints.

· Our business, investor confidence in our financial results and stock price may be adversely affected if our internal controls are not effective.

· We may face other risks described from time to time in periodic and current reports we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

Other factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” in Part II, Item 1A of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in Part I,  Item 1A of our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K (the “10-K”) filed with the SEC, those discussed in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” herein and in the 10-K and those discussed in other documents we file with the SEC.  All cautionary statements made or referred to herein should be read as being applicable to all forward-looking statements wherever they appear.  Investors should consider the risks and uncertainties described or referred to herein and should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements.  The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made, and we expressly disclaim any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

iv

Item 1.  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in thousands, except share amounts)

(Unaudited)

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
Assets
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	2,365,893	$	5,324,503
Marketable investment securities		20,560		35,616
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $19,748 and $18,399, respectively		737,029		777,908
Inventory		373,676		422,349
FCC auction deposit (Note 10)		—		1,500,000
Other current assets		215,874		220,011
Total current assets		3,713,032		8,280,387
Noncurrent Assets:
Restricted cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities		81,433		82,360
Property and equipment, net		2,447,945		2,654,271
FCC authorizations		23,198,010		16,498,733
Other investment securities		119,750		33,248
Other noncurrent assets, net		357,389		365,293
Total noncurrent assets		26,204,527		19,633,905
Total assets	$	29,917,559	$	27,914,292
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)
Current Liabilities:
Trade accounts payable	$	328,098	$	524,704
Deferred revenue and other		743,128		773,982
Accrued programming		1,583,346		1,542,036
Accrued interest		303,656		305,739
Other accrued expenses (Note 10)		802,397		504,468
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations		2,140,980		941,903
Total current liabilities		5,901,605		4,592,832
Long-Term Obligations, Net of Current Portion:
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion		15,107,048		15,541,736
Deferred tax liabilities		2,851,441		2,385,525
Long-term deferred revenue and other long-term liabilities		468,897		463,242
Total long-term obligations, net of current portion		18,427,386		18,390,503
Total liabilities		24,328,991		22,983,335
Commitments and Contingencies (Note 10)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (Note 2)		350,643		319,634
Stockholders’ Equity (Deficit):
Class A common stock, $.01 par value, 1,600,000,000 shares authorized, 227,675,526 and 226,812,205 shares issued and outstanding, respectively		2,277		2,268
Class B common stock, $.01 par value, 800,000,000 shares authorized, 238,435,208 shares issued and outstanding		2,384		2,384
Additional paid-in capital		3,275,059		3,071,425
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		5,632		781
Accumulated earnings (deficit)		1,952,522		1,536,691
Total DISH Network stockholders’ equity (deficit)		5,237,874		4,613,549
Noncontrolling interests		51		(2,226)
Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)		5,237,925		4,611,323
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)	$	29,917,559	$	27,914,292

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

1

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
Revenue:
Subscriber-related revenue	$	3,614,279	$	3,826,216	$	7,258,365	$	7,601,694
Equipment sales and other revenue		29,353		38,375		65,628		90,371
Total revenue		3,643,632		3,864,591		7,323,993		7,692,065
Costs and Expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown separately below - Note 8):
Subscriber-related expenses		2,242,775		2,249,260		4,485,962		4,479,509
Satellite and transmission expenses		163,980		175,625		340,162		344,206
Cost of sales - equipment and other		22,136		28,245		50,109		68,511
Subscriber acquisition costs:
Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies		22,388		38,404		43,399		93,930
Other subscriber acquisition costs		134,817		181,276		276,761		373,780
Subscriber acquisition advertising		118,255		129,769		245,334		258,132
Total subscriber acquisition costs		275,460		349,449		565,494		725,842
General and administrative expenses		179,812		182,145		310,847		383,146
Litigation expense (Note 10)		295,695		—		295,695		—
Depreciation and amortization (Note 8)		211,671		239,585		416,301		467,151
Total costs and expenses		3,391,529		3,224,309		6,464,570		6,468,365
Operating income (loss)		252,103		640,282		859,423		1,223,700
Other Income (Expense):
Interest income		12,447		8,989		26,739		12,943
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized		(26,269)		(3,410)		(55,439)		(4,115)
Other, net		3,167		45,376		7,912		112,293
Total other income (expense)		(10,655)		50,955		(20,788)		121,121
Income (loss) before income taxes		241,448		691,237		838,635		1,344,821
Income tax (provision) benefit, net		(182,686)		(253,175)		(389,798)		(494,815)
Net income (loss)		58,762		438,062		448,837		850,006
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax		18,646		13,959		33,006		26,012
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	40,116	$	424,103	$	415,831	$	823,994
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock:
Basic		466,019		464,803		465,717		464,589
Diluted		466,935		465,640		519,861		465,429
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.89	$	1.77
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.86	$	1.77
Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Net income (loss)	$	58,762	$	438,062	$	448,837	$	850,006
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments		639		—		846		—
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities		801		2,497		6,965		(104)
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)		(630)		(28,953)		(634)		(93,643)
Deferred income tax (expense) benefit, net		(62)		9,239		(2,326)		34,156
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		748		(17,217)		4,851		(59,591)
Comprehensive income (loss)		59,510		420,845		453,688		790,415
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax		18,646		13,959		33,006		26,012
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	40,864	$	406,886	$	420,682	$	764,403

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

2

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

	For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,
	2017		2016
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income (loss)	$	448,837	$	850,006
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		416,301		467,151
Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments		(4,759)		(113,012)
Non-cash, stock-based compensation		11,863		3,745
Deferred tax expense (benefit)		347,550		185,034
Other, net		41,716		52,419
Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net		231,588		146,307
Net cash flows from operating activities		1,493,096		1,591,650
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Purchases of marketable investment securities		(72,224)		(136,212)
Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities		92,671		563,416
Settlement of derivative financial instruments		—		562,234
Purchases of property and equipment		(212,387)		(319,766)
Capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations (Note 2)		(452,421)		(405,071)
Purchases of FCC authorizations (Note 10)		(4,711,154)		—
Purchases of strategic investments		(90,381)		—
Other, net		10,754		9,049
Net cash flows from investing activities		(5,435,142)		273,650
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes		—		2,000,000
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes (Note 9)		1,000,000		—
Redemption and repurchases of senior notes		—		(1,500,000)
Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations		(20,086)		(20,858)
Payments made to parent of transferred businesses		(7,098)		(48,163)
Net proceeds from Class A common stock options exercised and stock issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan		16,778		7,443
Debt issuance costs		(6,158)		—
Other, net		—		(7,548)
Net cash flows from financing activities		983,436		430,874
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		(2,958,610)		2,296,174
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period		5,324,503		1,053,983
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$	2,365,893	$	3,350,157

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

3

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

1.Organization and Business Activities

Principal Business

DISH Network Corporation is a holding company.  Its subsidiaries (which together with DISH Network Corporation are referred to as “DISH Network,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” and/or “our,” unless otherwise required by the context) operate two primary business segments.

Pay-TV and Broadband

We offer pay-TV services under the DISH®  brand and the Sling® brand (collectively “Pay-TV” services).  The DISH branded pay-TV service consists of, among other things, Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) licenses authorizing us to use direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) and Fixed Satellite Service (“FSS”) spectrum, our owned and leased satellites, receiver systems, broadcast operations, customer service facilities, a leased fiber optic network, in-home service and call center operations, and certain other assets utilized in our operations.  The Sling branded pay-TV services consist of, among other things, live, linear streaming over-the-top (“OTT”) Internet-based domestic, international and Latino video programming services (“Sling TV”).  Our Sling domestic service has a single-stream service branded Sling Orange and a multi-stream service branded Sling Blue, which includes, among other things, the ability to stream on up to three devices simultaneously.  All Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are included in our Pay-TV subscriber count.  As of June 30, 2017, we had 13.332 million Pay-TV subscribers in the United States. 

In addition, we have marketed broadband services under the dishNET™ brand, which had 0.509 million subscribers in the United States as of June 30, 2017.  Our dishNET satellite broadband service has utilized advanced technology and high-powered satellites launched by Hughes Communications, Inc. (“Hughes”) and ViaSat, Inc. (“ViaSat”) to provide broadband coverage nationwide, primarily targeting rural residents that are underserved, or unserved, by wireline broadband.  We also offer wireline broadband services under the dishNET brand as a competitive local exchange carrier to consumers in certain areas in 34 states and wireline voice services in certain areas of 14 of these states located in the western United States.  We have primarily bundled our dishNET branded services with our DISH branded pay-TV service.  During the first quarter 2017, we decided to transition our wholesale arrangement with Hughes to an authorized representative arrangement and entered into a master service agreement (the “MSA”) with Hughes Network Systems, LLC (“HNS”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hughes, pursuant to which we, among other things: (i) have the right, but not the obligation, to market, promote and solicit orders for the Hughes broadband satellite service and related equipment; and (ii) install Hughes service equipment with respect to activations generated by us.  While broadband subscriber activations generated by us under the MSA are not included in our Broadband subscriber count, under the MSA, HNS will make certain payments to us for each Hughes service activation generated and installation performed by us, and we will not have to incur subscriber acquisition costs for these subscribers.  See Note 12 for further information.  As a result of the MSA with Hughes, we are no longer marketing dishNET satellite broadband services provided on a wholesale basis by Hughes, and our Broadband subscriber count related to the Hughes service will decline through customer attrition. 

As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange with EchoStar, described below, we also design, develop and distribute receiver systems and provide digital broadcast operations, including satellite uplinking/downlinking, transmission and other services to third-party pay-TV providers.  See Note 2 and Note 12 for further information.

4

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Wireless

Since 2008, we have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets and made over $10 billion in non-controlling investments in certain entities, for a total of over $21 billion, as described further below.

DISH Network Spectrum

We have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.  Most recently, the broadcast incentive auction in the 600 MHz frequency range (“Auction 1000”) began on March 29, 2016 and concluded on March 30, 2017.  On April 13, 2017, the FCC announced that ParkerB.com Wireless L.L.C. (“ParkerB.com”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network, was the winning bidder for 486 wireless spectrum licenses (the “600 MHz Licenses”) with aggregate winning bids totaling approximately $6.211 billion.  On April 27, 2017, ParkerB.com filed an application with the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  On July 1, 2016, we paid $1.5 billion to the FCC as a deposit for Auction 1000.  On May 11, 2017, we paid the remaining balance of our winning bids of approximately $4.711 billion.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.

These wireless spectrum licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  We will need to make significant additional investments or partner with others to, among other things, commercialize, build-out, and integrate these licenses and related assets, and any additional acquired licenses and related assets; and comply with regulations applicable to such licenses.  Depending on the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, and regulatory compliance, any such investments or partnerships could vary significantly.  In addition, as we consider our options for the commercialization of our wireless spectrum, we will incur significant additional expenses and will have to make significant investments related to, among other things, research and development, wireless testing and wireless network infrastructure.  In March 2017, we notified the FCC that we plan to deploy a next-generation 5G-capable network, focused on supporting narrowband Internet of Things (“IoT”).  The first phase of the network deployment will be completed by March 2020, with subsequent phases to be completed thereafter.  We may also determine that additional wireless spectrum licenses may be required to commercialize our wireless business and to compete with other wireless service providers. 

See Note 10 for further information.

DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses

Through our wholly-owned subsidiaries American AWS-3 Wireless II L.L.C. (“American II”) and American AWS-3 Wireless III L.L.C. (“American III”), we have made over $10 billion in certain non-controlling investments in Northstar Spectrum, LLC (“Northstar Spectrum”), the parent company of Northstar Wireless, LLC (“Northstar Wireless,” and collectively with Northstar Spectrum, the “Northstar Entities”), and in SNR Wireless HoldCo, LLC (“SNR HoldCo”), the parent company of SNR Wireless LicenseCo, LLC (“SNR Wireless,” and collectively with SNR HoldCo, the “SNR Entities”), respectively.  On October 27, 2015, the FCC granted certain AWS-3 wireless spectrum licenses (the “AWS-3 Licenses”) to Northstar Wireless and to SNR Wireless, respectively, which are recorded in “FCC authorizations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in Accounting Standards Codification 810, Consolidation (“ASC 810”), Northstar Spectrum and SNR HoldCo are considered variable interest entities and, based on the characteristics of the structure of these entities and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate these entities into our financial statements.  See Note 2 for further information.

5

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

The AWS-3 Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  We may need to make significant additional loans to the Northstar Entities and to the SNR Entities, or they may need to partner with others, so that the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities may commercialize, build-out and integrate these AWS-3 Licenses, comply with regulations applicable to such AWS-3 Licenses, and make any potential payments related to the re-auction of AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC.  Depending upon the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, regulatory compliance, and potential re-auction payments, any such loans or partnerships could vary significantly.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain a profitable return on our non-controlling investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities.  See Note 10 for further information.

2.Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information.  Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and notes required for complete financial statements prepared under GAAP.  In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Our results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.  For further information, refer to the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.  Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Principles of Consolidation

We consolidate all majority owned subsidiaries, investments in entities in which we have controlling influence and variable interest entities where we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary.  Minority interests are recorded as noncontrolling interests or redeemable noncontrolling interests.  See below for further information.  Non-consolidated investments are accounted for using the equity method when we have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of the investee.  When we do not have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of an investee, the cost method is used.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. 

On February 28, 2017, we and EchoStar and certain of our respective subsidiaries completed the transactions contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”) that was previously entered into on January 31, 2017 (the “Share Exchange”).  Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, among other things, EchoStar transferred to us certain assets and liabilities of the EchoStar technologies and EchoStar broadcasting businesses, consisting primarily of the businesses that design, develop and distribute digital set-top boxes, provide satellite uplinking services and develop and support streaming video technology, as well as certain investments in joint ventures, spectrum licenses, real estate properties and EchoStar’s ten percent non-voting interest in Sling TV Holding L.L.C. (the “Transferred Businesses”), and in exchange, we transferred to EchoStar the 6,290,499 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by EchoStar (the “EchoStar Tracking Stock”) and 81.128 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation, a subsidiary of EchoStar (“HSSC”) (the “HSSC Tracking Stock,” and together with the EchoStar Tracking Stock, collectively, the “Tracking Stock”), that tracked the residential retail satellite broadband business of HNS.  In connection with the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar and certain of their subsidiaries entered into certain agreements covering, among other things, tax matters, employee matters, intellectual property matters and the provision of transitional services.  See Note 12 for further information.

6

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

As the Share Exchange was a transaction between entities that are under common control, accounting rules require that our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of the Transferred Businesses for all periods presented, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange.  We initially recorded the Transferred Businesses at EchoStar’s historical cost basis.  The difference between the historical cost basis of the Transferred Businesses and the net carrying value of the Tracking Stock is recorded in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The results of the Transferred Businesses were prepared from separate records maintained by EchoStar for the periods prior to March 1, 2017, and may not necessarily be indicative of the conditions that would have existed, or the results of operations, if the Transferred Businesses had been operated on a combined basis with our subsidiaries.  The primary impacts to our financial statement presentation are as follows:

· Our investments in the EchoStar Tracking Stock and HSSC Tracking Stock are no longer included in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

· The assets and liabilities of the Transferred Businesses are recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the results of operations of the Transferred Businesses, including sales of set-top boxes to third parties, are recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

· Sling TV Holding L.L.C., in which EchoStar held a 10% non-voting interest prior to the Share Exchange, is accounted for as though it was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network.

· Intercompany transactions between the Transferred Businesses and us, including, among others, the sale of set-top boxes and broadcast services from EchoStar to us, have been eliminated to the extent possible, including the margin EchoStar received on those sales.

Our subsequent annual and quarterly financial statements will include the results of the Transferred Businesses as described above for all periods presented in those financial statements, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange.  The table below includes unaudited supplemental pro forma information for revenue and net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) as if the results of the Transferred Businesses were included for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2016, respectively:  

		DISH Network   (as previously reported)		Adjustments Relating to the Transferred Businesses		DISH Network (as currently reported)
				(In thousands)
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	3,837,036	$	27,555	$	3,864,591
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	410,464	$	13,639	$	424,103
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	7,624,271	$	67,794	$	7,692,065
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	799,754	$	24,240	$	823,994
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016:
Total revenue	$	15,094,562	$	117,740	$	15,212,302
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	1,449,853	$	48,086	$	1,497,939

7

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Northstar Wireless.  Northstar Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northstar Spectrum, which is an entity owned by Northstar Manager, LLC (“Northstar Manager”) and us.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, Northstar Spectrum is considered a variable interest entity and, based on the characteristics of the structure of this entity and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate Northstar Spectrum into our financial statements.  After the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless (and in certain circumstances, prior to the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless), Northstar Manager has the ability, but not the obligation, to require Northstar Spectrum to purchase Northstar Manager’s ownership interests in Northstar Spectrum (the “Northstar Put Right”) for a purchase price that generally equals its equity contribution to Northstar Spectrum plus a fixed annual rate of return.  In the event that the Northstar Put Right is exercised by Northstar Manager, the consummation of the sale will be subject to FCC approval.  Northstar Spectrum does not have a call right with respect to Northstar Manager’s ownership interests in Northstar Spectrum.  Although Northstar Manager is the sole manager of Northstar Spectrum, Northstar Manager’s ownership interest is considered temporary equity under the applicable accounting guidance and is thus recorded as part of “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in the mezzanine section of our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Northstar Manager’s ownership interest in Northstar Spectrum was initially accounted for at fair value.  Subsequently, Northstar Manager’s ownership interest in Northstar Spectrum is increased by the fixed annual rate of return through “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The operating results of Northstar Spectrum attributable to Northstar Manager are recorded as “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  See Note 10 for further information.

SNR Wireless.  SNR Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNR HoldCo, which is an entity owned by SNR Wireless Management, LLC (“SNR Management”) and us.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, SNR HoldCo is considered a variable interest entity and, based on the characteristics of the structure of this entity and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate SNR HoldCo into our financial statements.  After the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to SNR Wireless (and in certain circumstances, prior to the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to SNR Wireless), SNR Management has the ability, but not the obligation, to require SNR HoldCo to purchase SNR Management’s ownership interests in SNR HoldCo (the “SNR Put Right”) for a purchase price that generally equals its equity contribution to SNR HoldCo plus a fixed annual rate of return.  In the event that the SNR Put Right is exercised by SNR Management, the consummation of the sale will be subject to FCC approval.  SNR HoldCo does not have a call right with respect to SNR Management’s ownership interests in SNR HoldCo.  Although SNR Management is the sole manager of SNR HoldCo, SNR Management’s ownership interest is considered temporary equity under the applicable accounting guidance and is thus recorded as part of “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in the mezzanine section of our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  SNR Management’s ownership interest in SNR HoldCo was initially accounted for at fair value.  Subsequently, SNR Management’s ownership interest in SNR HoldCo is increased by the fixed annual rate of return through “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The operating results of SNR HoldCo attributable to SNR Management are recorded as “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  See Note 10 for further information.

8

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense for each reporting period.  Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, allowances for doubtful accounts, self-insurance obligations, deferred taxes and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, loss contingencies, fair value of financial instruments, fair value of options granted under our stock-based compensation plans, fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, fair value of multi-element arrangements, capital leases, asset impairments, estimates of future cash flows used to evaluate impairments, useful lives of property, equipment and intangible assets, independent third-party retailer incentives, programming expenses and subscriber lives.  Economic conditions may increase the inherent uncertainty in the estimates and assumptions indicated above.  Actual results may differ from previously estimated amounts, and such differences may be material to our condensed consolidated financial statements.  Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected prospectively in the period they occur.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at amortized cost less impairment losses, if any.  The costs of satellites under construction, including interest and certain amounts prepaid under our satellite service agreements, are capitalized during the construction phase, assuming the eventual successful launch and in-orbit operation of the satellite.  If a satellite were to fail during launch or while in-orbit, the resultant loss would be charged to expense in the period such loss was incurred.  The amount of any such loss would be reduced to the extent of insurance proceeds estimated to be received, if any.  Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over useful lives ranging from one to 40 years.  Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense when incurred.  Renewals and improvements that add value or extend the asset’s useful life are capitalized.  Costs related to the procurement and development of software for internal-use are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software.

Cost of Sales – Equipment and Other

Costs include the cost of non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories and the cost of sales of digital receivers and related components to third-party pay-TV providers, both of which include freight and royalties.  Costs are generally recognized as products are delivered to customers and the related revenue is recognized. 

Capitalized Interest

We capitalize interest associated with the acquisition or construction of certain assets, including, among other things, satellites and wireless spectrum licenses.  Capitalization of interest begins when, among other things, steps are taken to prepare the asset for its intended use and ceases when the asset is ready for its intended use or when these activities are substantially suspended.

We are currently preparing for the commercialization of our AWS-4, H Block and 600 MHz wireless spectrum licenses, and interest expense related to their carrying amount is being capitalized.  In addition, on October 27, 2015, the FCC granted certain AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless and to SNR Wireless, respectively, in which we have made certain non-controlling investments.  Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless are preparing for the commercialization of their AWS-3 Licenses and began capitalizing interest related to those AWS-3 Licenses as of October 27, 2015.  We are preparing for the commercialization of our 600 MHz Licenses and began capitalizing interest related to these licenses as of June 14, 2017.  As the carrying amount of these licenses now exceeds the carrying value of our long-term debt, materially all of our interest expense is being capitalized as of June 14, 2017.

9

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Fair Value Measurements

We determine fair value based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  Market or observable inputs are the preferred source of values, followed by unobservable inputs or assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs.  We apply the following hierarchy in determining fair value:

· Level 1, defined as observable inputs being quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;

· Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and derivative financial instruments indexed to marketable investment securities; and

· Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other participants therefore requiring assumptions based on the best information available.

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts) and current liabilities (excluding the “Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations”) is equal to or approximates fair value due to their short-term nature or proximity to current market rates.  See Note 6 for the fair value of our marketable investment securities and derivative financial instruments.

Fair values for our publicly traded debt securities are based on quoted market prices, when available.  The fair values of private debt are based on, among other things, available trade information, and/or an analysis in which we evaluate market conditions, related securities, various public and private offerings, and other publicly available information.  In performing this analysis, we make various assumptions regarding, among other things, credit spreads, and the impact of these factors on the value of the debt securities.  See Note 9 for the fair value of our long-term debt.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue when an arrangement exists, prices are determinable, collectability is reasonably assured and the goods or services have been delivered.

Revenue from our Pay-TV services is recognized when programming is broadcast to subscribers.  We recognize revenue from our broadband services when the service is provided.  Payments received from Pay-TV and Broadband subscribers in advance of the broadcast or service period are recorded as “Deferred revenue and other” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets until earned.  Revenue from equipment sales generally is recognized upon shipment to customers. 

For certain of our promotions, subscribers are charged an upfront fee.  A portion of these fees may be deferred and recognized over the estimated subscriber life for new subscribers or the estimated remaining life for existing subscribers ranging from four to five years.  Revenue from advertising sales is recognized when the related services are performed.

Subscriber fees for DISH branded pay-TV equipment rental fees and other hardware related fees, including fees for DVRs, fees for broadband equipment and additional outlet fees, advertising services and fees earned from our in-home service operations are recognized as revenue as earned.  Generally, revenue from equipment sales, equipment upgrades and sales of streaming-capable devices for our Sling branded pay-TV services are recognized upon shipment to customers. 

Certain of our existing and new subscriber promotions include programming discounts.  Programming revenues are recorded as earned at the discounted monthly rate charged to the subscriber.

10

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

We offer our customers the opportunity to download movies for a specific viewing period or permanently purchase a movie from our website.  We recognize revenue when the movie is successfully downloaded by the customer, which, based on our current technology, occurs at the time the customer plays the movie for the first time.

Research and Development

Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.  Research and development costs totaled $9 million and $12 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  Research and development costs totaled $16 million and $24 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

New Accounting Pronouncements

Revenue from Contracts with Customers.  On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2014-09”), and has modified the standard thereafter.  On July 9, 2015, the FASB approved a one year deferral on the effective date for implementation of this standard, which changed the effective date for us to January 1, 2018. This converged standard on revenue recognition was issued jointly with the International Accounting Standards Board to create common revenue recognition guidance for GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards.  ASU 2014-09 provides a framework for revenue recognition that replaces most existing GAAP revenue recognition guidance when it becomes effective.  ASU 2014-09 allows for either a full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption.  We are evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.  We have not yet selected an adoption method.  While we have not determined the effect of the standard on our ongoing financial reporting, we believe that the standard will, among other things, change the allocation and timing of when revenue is recognized for those customers who have a contractual commitment to receive service for a minimum term, including time-limited discounts or free service periods.  Under current accounting rules, we recognize revenue net of discounts during the promotional periods and do not recognize any revenue during free service periods.  Under ASU 2014-09, revenue recognition will be accelerated for these contracts as the impact of discounts or free service periods that are considered performance obligations will be recognized uniformly over the total contractual period.  In addition, the standard will require that incremental costs to obtain a customer, which represent a significant portion of our non-advertising subscriber acquisition costs, be deferred and recognized over the expected customer life, whereas our current policy is to expense these costs as incurred.  As the new standard will impact revenue and cost recognition for a significant number of our contracts, as well as our business processes and information technology systems, our evaluation of the effect of the new standard is ongoing.  We are currently in the process of identifying and implementing changes to our systems, processes, and internal controls to meet the requirements of the standard.  The ultimate impact of adopting ASU 2014-09 for both revenue recognition and costs to obtain and fulfill contracts will depend on the promotions and offers in placeduring the period leading up to and after the adoptionof ASU 2014-09.

Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. On January 5, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”),  which amends certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments.  This amendment requires all equity investments to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income (other than those accounted for under equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee).  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-01 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

11

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Leases.    On February 25, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 Leases (“ASU 2016-02”), which relates to the accounting of leasing transactions.  This standard requires a lessee to record on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by leases with lease terms of more than 12 months.  In addition, this standard requires both lessees and lessors to disclose certain key information about lease transactions.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Financial Instruments – Credit Losses.On June 16, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments – Credit Losses, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”), which changes the way entities measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net earnings.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

Statement of Cash Flows - Update.On August 26, 2016, the FASB issued 2016-15 Statement of Cash Flows: Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (“ASU 2016-15”).  This update consists of eight provisions that provide guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments.  If practicable, this update should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented.  For the provisions that are impracticable to apply retrospectively, those provisions may be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable.  This update will become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-15 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Statement of Cash Flows:  Restricted Cash.  On November 17, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18 Restricted Cash (“ASU 2016-18”),  which addresses the diversity where changes in restricted cash are classified on the cash flow statement.  ASU 2016-18 requires that changes in restricted cash and cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts on the statement of cash flows.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We expect that the adoption of ASU 2016-18 will have an immaterial impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

12

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

3.Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share

We present both basic earnings per share (“EPS”) and diluted EPS.  Basic EPS excludes potential dilution and is computed by dividing “Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network” by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if stock awards were exercised and if our Convertible Notes due 2026 issued August 8, 2016 and our Convertible Notes due 2024 issued March 17, 2017 were converted.  The potential dilution from stock awards is accounted for using the treasury stock method based on the average market value of our Class A common stock.  The potential dilution from conversion of the Convertible Notes is accounted for using the if-converted method, which requires that all of the shares of our Class A common stock issuable upon conversion of the Convertible Notes will be included in the calculation of diluted EPS assuming conversion of the Convertible Notes at the beginning of the reporting period (or at time of issuance, if later).  The following table presents EPS amounts for all periods and the basic and diluted weighted-average shares outstanding used in the calculation.

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net income (loss)	$	58,762	$	438,062	$	448,837	$	850,006
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax		18,646		13,959		33,006		26,012
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network - Basic		40,116		424,103		415,831		823,994
Interest on dilutive Convertible Notes, net of tax		—		—		30,125		—
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network - Diluted	$	40,116	$	424,103	$	445,956	$	823,994
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock:
Basic		466,019		464,803		465,717		464,589
Dilutive impact of Convertible Notes		—		—		53,152		—
Dilutive impact of stock awards outstanding		916		837		992		840
Diluted		466,935		465,640		519,861		465,429
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.89	$	1.77
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.86	$	1.77

Certain stock awards to acquire our Class A common stock are not included in the weighted-average common shares outstanding above, as their effect is anti-dilutive.  For the three months ended June 30, 2017, the effect of the Convertible Notes is excluded from the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network, as the effect is anti-dilutive.  In addition, vesting of performance based options and rights to acquire shares of our Class A common stock granted pursuant to our performance based stock incentive plans (“Restricted Performance Units”) are both contingent upon meeting certain goals, some of which are not yet probable of being achieved.  Furthermore, the warrants that we issued to certain option counterparties in connection with the Convertible Notes due 2026 are only exercisable at their expiration if the market price per share of our Class A common stock is greater than the strike price of the warrants, which is approximately $86.08 per share, subject to adjustments.  As a consequence, the following are not included in the diluted EPS calculation.

13

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

	As of June 30,
	2017	2016
	(In thousands)
Anti-dilutive stock awards	1,536	1,826
Performance based options (1)	6,896	4,379
Restricted Performance Units	1,281	1,370
Common stock warrants	46,029	—
Total	55,742	7,575

(1) The increase in performance based options as of June 30, 2017 primarily resulted from the issuance of stock option awards as of January 1, 2017 under a long-term, performance-based stock incentive plan adopted on December 2, 2016 (the “2017 LTIP”).

4.Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows

The following table presents our supplemental cash flow and other non-cash data.

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest)	$	496,644	$	414,130
Cash received for interest		4,760		9,478
Cash paid for income taxes (1)		20,427		211,529
Capitalized interest (2)		488,123		382,458
Initial equity component of the 2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024, net of deferred taxes of $91,485 (3)		160,896		—
Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock		23,134		24,984
Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations		—		7,510

(1) As a result of, among other things, the FCC granting our application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses and less estimated taxable income during 2017, cash paid for income taxes is expected to be significantly lower than in prior periods.

(2) See Note 2 for further information.

(3) See Note 9 for further information.

14

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

5.Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table presents the tax effect on each component of “Other comprehensive income (loss).”

	For the Three Months Ended June 30,
	2017						2016
	Before		Tax		Net		Before		Tax		Net
	Tax		(Expense)		of Tax		Tax		(Expense)		of Tax
	Amount		Benefit		Amount		Amount		Benefit		Amount
	(In thousands)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	639	$	—	$	639	$	—	$	—	$	—
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities		801		(290)		511		2,497		(916)		1,581
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)		(630)		228		(402)		(28,953)		10,155		(18,798)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	810	$	(62)	$	748	$	(26,456)	$	9,239	$	(17,217)

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	2017						2016
	Before		Tax		Net		Before		Tax		Net
	Tax		(Expense)		of Tax		Tax		(Expense)		of Tax
	Amount		Benefit		Amount		Amount		Benefit (1)		Amount
	(In thousands)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	846	$	—	$	846	$	—	$	—	$	—
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities		6,965		(2,559)		4,406		(104)		38		(66)
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)		(634)		233		(401)		(93,643)		34,118		(59,525)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	7,177	$	(2,326)	$	4,851	$	(93,747)	$	34,156	$	(59,591)

The “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” is detailed in the following table, net of tax.

		Foreign		Unrealized/
		Currency		Recognized
		Translation		Gains
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Adjustment		(Losses)	Total
	(In thousands)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	—	$	781	$	781
Foreign currency translation adjustments		846		—		846
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification		—		4,406		4,406
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		—		(401)		(401)
Balance as of June 30, 2017	$	846	$	4,786	$	5,632

15

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

6.Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities

Our marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities consisted of the following:

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Marketable investment securities:
Current marketable investment securities - strategic	$	12,763	$	6,721
Current marketable investment securities - other		7,797		28,895
Total current marketable investment securities		20,560		35,616
Restricted marketable investment securities (1)		81,277		81,679
Total marketable investment securities		101,837		117,295
Restricted cash and cash equivalents (1)		156		681
Other investment securities:
Other investment securities - equity method		111,600		25,098
Other investment securities - cost method		8,150		8,150
Total other investment securities		119,750		33,248
Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities	$	221,743	$	151,224

(1) Restricted marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents are included in “Restricted cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Marketable Investment Securities

Our marketable investment securities portfolio consists of various debt and equity instruments, all of which are classified as available-for-sale, except as specified below.  See Note 2 for further information. 

Current Marketable Investment Securities –  Strategic

Our current strategic marketable investment securities portfolio includes and may include strategic and financial debt and equity investments in private and public companies that are highly speculative and have experienced and continue to experience volatility.  As of June 30, 2017, this portfolio consisted of securities of a small number of issuers, and as a result the value of that portfolio depends, among other things, on the performance of those issuers.  The fair value of certain of the debt and equity securities in this portfolio can be adversely impacted by, among other things, the issuers’ respective performance and ability to obtain any necessary additional financing on acceptable terms, or at all.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Current Marketable Investment Securities - Other

Our current marketable investment securities portfolio includes investments in various debt instruments including, among others, commercial paper, corporate securities and U.S. treasury and/or agency securities.

Commercial paper consists mainly of unsecured short-term, promissory notes issued primarily by corporations with maturities ranging up to 365 days.  Corporate securities consist of debt instruments issued by corporations with various maturities normally less than 18 months.  U. S. Treasury and agency securities consist of debt instruments issued by the federal government and other government agencies. 

Restricted Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Investment Securities

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our restricted marketable investment securities, together with our restricted cash and cash equivalents, included amounts required as collateral for our letters of credit.

Other Investment Securities

We have strategic investments in certain debt and equity securities that are included in noncurrent “Other investment securities” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and accounted for using the cost, equity and/or available-for-sale methods of accounting.  Certain of our equity method investments are detailed below.

NagraStar L.L.C.  As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, we own a 50% interest in NagraStar L.L.C. (“NagraStar”), a joint venture that is our primary provider of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only authorized customers have access to our programming. 

Invidi Technologies Corporation.  In November 2016, we, DIRECTV, LLC, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of AT&T Inc., and Cavendish Square Holding B.V., an affiliate of WPP plc, entered into a series of agreements to acquire Invidi Technologies Corporation (“Invidi”), an entity that provides proprietary software for the addressable advertising market.  The transaction closed in January 2017. 

Our ability to realize value from our strategic investments in securities that are not publicly traded depends on the success of the issuers’ businesses and their ability to obtain sufficient capital, on acceptable terms or at all, and to execute their business plans.  Because private markets are not as liquid as public markets, there is also increased risk that we will not be able to sell these investments, or that when we desire to sell them we will not be able to obtain fair value for them.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had accumulated net unrealized gains of $8 million and $1 million, respectively.  These amounts, net of related tax effect, were $5 million and $1 million, respectively.  All of these amounts are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within “Total stockholders’ equity (deficit).”  The components of our available-for-sale investments are summarized in the table below.

	As of June 30, 2017								As of December 31, 2016
	Marketable								Marketable
	Investment		Unrealized						Investment		Unrealized
	Securities		Gains		Losses		Net		Securities		Gains		Losses		Net
	(In thousands)
Debt securities (including restricted):
U.S. Treasury and agency securities	$	81,724	$	—	$	(180)	$	(180)	$	81,982	$	13	$	(132)	$	(119)
Corporate securities		19,606		7,728		(4)		7,724		33,555		1,327		—		1,327
Other		507		60		(11)		49		1,758		64		(11)		53
Total	$	101,837	$	7,788	$	(195)	$	7,593	$	117,295	$	1,404	$	(143)	$	1,261

As of June 30, 2017, restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities included debt securities of $75 million with contractual maturities within one year and $27 million with contractual maturities extending longer than one year through and including five years.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities as a result of our ability to sell these securities prior to maturity.

Marketable Investment Securities in a Loss Position

The following table reflects the length of time that the individual securities, accounted for as available-for-sale, have been in an unrealized loss position, aggregated by investment category.  As of June 30, 2017, the unrealized losses related to our investments in debt securities primarily represented investments in U.S. treasury and agency securities, corporate securities and other.  We have the ability to hold and do not intend to sell our investments in these debt securities before they recover or mature, and it is more likely than not that we will hold these investments until that time.  In addition, we are not aware of any specific factors indicating that the underlying issuers of these debt securities would not be able to pay interest as it becomes due or repay the principal at maturity.  Therefore, we believe that these changes in the estimated fair values of these marketable investment securities are related to temporary market fluctuations.

	As of
	June 30, 2017				December 31, 2016
	Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
	Value		Loss		Value		Loss
	(In thousands)
Debt Securities:
Less than 12 months	$	55,538	$	(158)	$	52,011	$	(132)
12 months or more		24,580		(37)		1,537		(11)
Total	$	80,118	$	(195)	$	53,548	$	(143)

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Fair Value Measurements

Our investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows:

	As of
	June 30, 2017								December 31, 2016
	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(In thousands)
Cash equivalents (including restricted)	$	2,302,508	$	109,313	$	2,193,195	$	—	$	5,187,900	$	147,494	$	5,040,406	$	—
Debt securities (including restricted):
U.S. Treasury and agency securities	$	81,724	$	81,724	$	—	$	—	$	81,982	$	81,982	$	—	$	—
Corporate securities		19,606		—		7,030		12,576		33,555		—		27,025		6,530
Other		507		—		320		187		1,758		—		1,567		191
Total	$	101,837	$	81,724	$	7,350	$	12,763	$	117,295	$	81,982	$	28,592	$	6,721

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our Level 3 investments consisted predominately of corporate securities.  On a quarterly basis we evaluate the reasonableness of significant unobservable inputs used in those measurements.  For our Level 3 investments, we evaluate, among other things, the terms of the underlying instruments, the credit ratings of the issuers, current market conditions, and other relevant factors.  Based on these factors, we assess the risk of realizing expected cash flows and we apply an observable discount rate that reflects this risk.  We may also reduce our valuations to reflect a liquidity discount based on the lack of an active market for these securities.

Changes in Level 3 instruments were as follows:

	Level 3
	Investment
	Securities
	(In thousands)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	6,721
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings		—
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)		6,423
Purchases		—
Sales		(290)
Settlements		(91)
Issuances		—
Transfers into or out of Level 3		—
Balance as of June 30, 2017	$	12,763

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, we had no transfers in or out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Gains and Losses on Sales and Changes in Carrying Amounts of Investments

“Other, net” within “Other Income (Expense)” included on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) is as follows:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
Other Income (Expense):	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Marketable investment securities - gains (losses) on sales/exchanges	$	2,487	$	29,868	$	4,759	$	108,521
Derivative financial instruments - net realized and/or unrealized gains (losses)		—		17,078		—		5,405
Marketable investment securities - other-than-temporary impairments		—		(914)		—		(914)
Other		680		(656)		3,153		(719)
Total	$	3,167	$	45,376	$	7,912	$	112,293

7.Inventory

Inventory consisted of the following:

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
		(In thousands)
Finished goods	$	247,289	$	282,569
Work-in-process and service repairs		117,593		129,512
Raw materials		8,794		10,268
Total inventory	$	373,676	$	422,349

20

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

8.Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

	Depreciable			As of
	Life			June 30,		December 31,
	(In Years)			2017		2016
				(In thousands)
Equipment leased to customers	2	-	5	$	2,505,046	$	2,720,695
EchoStar XV			15		277,658		277,658
EchoStar XVIII			15		411,255		411,255
D1		N/A			55,000		55,000
T1			15		401,721		401,721
Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements	10	-	15		499,819		499,819
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other	1	-	10		1,728,578		1,639,051
Buildings and improvements	1	-	40		291,476		288,992
Land			—		14,057		14,057
Construction in progress			—		60,747		88,235
Total property and equipment					6,245,357		6,396,483
Accumulated depreciation					(3,797,412)		(3,742,212)
Property and equipment, net				$	2,447,945	$	2,654,271

Depreciation and amortization expense consisted of the following:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Equipment leased to customers	$	145,603	$	181,431	$	281,737	$	348,611
Satellites		29,414		21,957		58,426		43,913
Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other		36,654		36,197		76,138		74,627
Total depreciation and amortization	$	211,671	$	239,585	$	416,301	$	467,151

Cost of sales and operating expense categories included in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) do not include depreciation expense related to satellites or equipment leased to customers.

Pay-TV Satellites.  We currently utilize 13 satellites in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator, two of which we own and depreciate over their estimated useful life.  We currently utilize certain capacity on nine satellites that we lease from EchoStar, which are accounted for as operating leases.  We also lease two satellites from third parties, which are accounted for as capital leases and are depreciated over the shorter of the economic life or the term of the satellite agreement.

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DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

As of June 30, 2017, our pay-TV satellite fleet consisted of the following:

			Estimated
			Useful Life
		Degree	(Years)/Lease
	Launch	Orbital	Termination
Satellites	Date	Location	Date
Owned:
EchoStar XV	July 2010	61.5	15
EchoStar XVIII	June 2016	61.5	15
Leased from EchoStar (1):
EchoStar VII (2)	February 2002	119	June 2018
EchoStar IX	August 2003	121	Month to month
EchoStar X (2)	February 2006	110	February 2021
EchoStar XI (2)	July 2008	110	September 2021
EchoStar XII	July 2003	61.5	September 2017
EchoStar XIV (2)	March 2010	119	February 2023
EchoStar XVI (3)	November 2012	61.5	January 2023
Nimiq 5	September 2009	72.7	September 2019
QuetzSat-1	September 2011	77	November 2021
Leased from Other Third Party:
Anik F3	April 2007	118.7	April 2022
Ciel II	December 2008	129	January 2019

(1) See Note 12 for further information on our Related Party Transactions with EchoStar.

(2) We generally have the option to renew each lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the useful life of the respective satellite. 

(3) We have the option to renew this lease for an additional five-year period.

22

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

9.Long-Term Debt

Fair Value of our Long-Term Debt

The following table summarizes the carrying amount and fair value of our debt facilities as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

	As of
	June 30, 2017				December 31, 2016
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
	(In thousands)
4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017 (1)	$	900,000	$	902,016	$	900,000	$	913,887
4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 (2)		1,200,000		1,215,768		1,200,000		1,228,464
7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019		1,400,000		1,542,282		1,400,000		1,559,698
5 1/8% Senior Notes due 2020		1,100,000		1,152,580		1,100,000		1,141,866
6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021		2,000,000		2,223,020		2,000,000		2,178,880
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022		2,000,000		2,155,060		2,000,000		2,114,780
5% Senior Notes due 2023		1,500,000		1,543,725		1,500,000		1,500,315
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2024		2,000,000		2,135,280		2,000,000		2,064,000
2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024		1,000,000		1,052,950		—		—
7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2026		2,000,000		2,369,240		2,000,000		2,270,900
3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026		3,000,000		3,628,530		3,000,000		3,431,130
Other notes payable		46,809		46,809		47,844		47,844
Subtotal		18,146,809	$	19,967,260		17,147,844	$	18,451,764
Unamortized debt discount on the Convertible Notes		(968,738)				(752,386)
Unamortized deferred financing costs and other debt discounts, net		(51,830)				(52,704)
Capital lease obligations (3)		121,787				140,885
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)	$	17,248,028			$	16,483,639

(1) On July 17, 2017, we redeemed the principal balance of our 4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017.

(2) Our 4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 mature on April 1, 2018 and have been reclassified to “Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2017.

(3) Disclosure regarding fair value of capital leases is not required.

We estimated the fair value of our publicly traded long-term debt using market prices in less active markets (Level 2).

2  3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024

On March 17, 2017, we issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes due March 15, 2024 in a private placement.  Interest accrues at an annual rate of 2 3/8% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing September 15, 2017.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

The Convertible Notes due 2024 are:

· our general unsecured obligations;

· ranked senior in right of payment to any future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Convertible Notes due 2024;

· ranked equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future unsecured senior indebtedness;

· ranked effectively junior to any of our existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness;

· ranked structurally junior to all indebtedness and other liabilities of our subsidiaries; and

· not guaranteed by our subsidiaries.

We may not redeem the Convertible Notes due 2024 prior to the maturity date.  If a “fundamental change” (as defined in the related indenture) occurs prior to the maturity date of the Convertible Notes due 2024, holders may require us to repurchase for cash all or part of their Convertible Notes due 2024 at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of such Convertible Notes due 2024, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the fundamental change repurchase date.

The indenture related to the Convertible Notes due 2024 does not contain any financial covenants and does not restrict us from paying dividends, issuing or repurchasing our other securities, issuing new debt (including secured debt) or repaying or repurchasing our debt.

Subject to the terms of the related indenture, the Convertible Notes due 2024 may be converted at an initial conversion rate of 12.1630 shares of our Class A common stock per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes due 2024 (equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $82.22 per share of our Class A common stock) (the “Initial Conversion Rate”), at any time on or after October 15, 2023 through the second scheduled trading day preceding the maturity date.  Holders of the Convertible Notes due 2024 will also have the right to convert the Convertible Notes due 2024 at the Initial Conversion Rate prior to October 15, 2023, but only upon the occurrence of specified events described in the related indenture.  The conversion rate is subject to anti-dilution adjustments if certain events occur.

In accordance with accounting guidance on embedded conversion features, we valued and bifurcated the conversion option associated with the Convertible Notes due 2024 (the “equity component”) from the host debt instrument.  The $252 million initial value of the equity component on the Convertible Notes due 2024 was recorded in “Additional paid-in capital” within “Stockholders’ equity (deficit)” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets with the offset being recorded as the debt discount.  The resulting debt discount on the Convertible Notes due 2024 is being amortized to interest expense at an effective interest rate of 7% over the seven-year term of the Convertible Notes due 2024.  This interest expense was recorded in “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” within “Other Income (Expense)” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). 

10.Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments

Since 2008, we have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets and made over $10 billion in non-controlling investments in certain entities, for a total of over $21 billion, as described further below.

24

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

DISH Network Spectrum

We have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.

700 MHz Licenses.  In 2008, we paid $712 million to acquire certain 700 MHz E Block (“700 MHz”) wireless spectrum licenses, which were granted to us by the FCC in February 2009.  These licenses are subject to certain build-out requirements.  By March 2020, we must provide signal coverage and offer service to at least 70% of the population in each of our E Block license areas (the “700 MHz Build-Out Requirement”).  If the 700 MHz Build-Out Requirement is not met with respect to any particular E Block license area, our authorization may terminate for the geographic portion of that license area in which we are not providing service. 

AWS-4 Licenses.  On March 2, 2012, the FCC approved the transfer of 40 MHz of wireless spectrum licenses held by DBSD North America, Inc. (“DBSD North America”) and TerreStar Networks, Inc. (“TerreStar”) to us.  On March 9, 2012, we completed the acquisition of 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America (the “DBSD Transaction”) and substantially all of the assets of TerreStar (the “TerreStar Transaction”), pursuant to which we acquired, among other things, certain satellite assets and wireless spectrum licenses held by DBSD North America and TerreStar.  The total consideration to acquire the DBSD North America and TerreStar assets was approximately $2.860 billion.

On February 15, 2013, the FCC issued an order, which became effective on March 7, 2013, modifying our licenses to expand our terrestrial operating authority with AWS-4 authority (“AWS-4”).  These licenses are subject to certain build-out requirements.  By March 2020, we are required to provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service to at least 70% of the population in each area covered by an individual license (the “AWS-4 Build-Out Requirement”).  If the AWS-4 Build-Out Requirement is not met with respect to any particular individual license, our terrestrial authorization for that license area may terminate.  The FCC’s December 20, 2013 order also conditionally waived certain FCC rules for our AWS-4 licenses to allow us to repurpose all 20 MHz of our uplink spectrum (2000-2020 MHz) for terrestrial downlink operations.  On June 1, 2016, we notified the FCC that we had elected to use our AWS-4 uplink spectrum for terrestrial downlink operations, and effective June 7, 2016, the FCC modified our AWS-4 licenses, resulting in all 40 MHz of our AWS-4 spectrum being designated for terrestrial downlink operations.

H Block Licenses.  On April 29, 2014, the FCC issued an order granting our application to acquire all 176 wireless spectrum licenses in the H Block auction.  We paid approximately $1.672 billion to acquire these H Block licenses, including clearance costs associated with the lower H Block spectrum.  The H Block licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  By April 2018, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 40% of the population in each area covered by an individual H Block license (the “H Block Interim Build-Out Requirement”).  By April 2024, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 75% of the population in each area covered by an individual H Block license (the “H Block Final Build-Out Requirement”).  If the H Block Interim Build-Out Requirement is not met, the H Block license term and the H Block Final Build-Out Requirement may be accelerated by two years (from April 2024 to April 2022) for each H Block license area in which we do not meet the requirement.  If the H Block Final Build-Out Requirement is not met, our authorization for each H Block license area in which we do not meet the requirement may terminate. 

600 MHz Licenses.  Auction 1000 began on March 29, 2016 and concluded on March 30, 2017.  On April 13, 2017, the FCC announced that ParkerB.com, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network, was the winning bidder for certain 600 MHz Licenses with aggregate winning bids totaling approximately $6.211 billion.  On April 27, 2017, ParkerB.com filed an application with the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  On July 1, 2016, we paid $1.5 billion to the FCC as a deposit for Auction 1000.  On May 11, 2017, we paid the remaining balance of our winning bids of approximately $4.711 billion.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.

25

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

The 600 MHz Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  By June 2023, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer wireless service to at least 40% of the population in each area covered by an individual 600 MHz License (the “600 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement”).  By June 2029, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer wireless service to at least 75% of the population in each area covered by an individual 600 MHz License (the “600 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement”).  If the 600 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement is not met, the 600 MHz License term and the 600 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement may be accelerated by two years (from June 2029 to June 2027) for each 600 MHz License area in which we do not meet the requirement.  If the 600 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement is not met, our authorization for each 600 MHz License area in which we do not meet the requirement may terminate.  In addition, certain broadcasters will have up to 39 months (ending July 13, 2020) to relinquish their 600 MHz spectrum, which may impact the timing for our ability to commence operations using certain 600 MHz Licenses.  The FCC has issued the 600 MHz Licenses prior to the clearance of the spectrum, and the build-out deadlines are based on the date that the 600 MHz Licenses were issued to us, not the date that the spectrum is cleared.

MVDDS Licenses.  We have multichannel video distribution and data service (“MVDDS”) licenses in 82 out of 214 geographical license areas, including Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago and several other major metropolitan areas.  By August 2014, we were required to meet certain FCC build-out requirements related to our MVDDS licenses, and we are subject to certain FCC service rules applicable to these licenses.  In January 2015, the FCC granted our application to extend the build-out requirements related to our MVDDS licenses.  We now have until 2019 to provide “substantial service” on our MVDDS licenses, and the licenses expire in 2024.  Our MVDDS licenses may be terminated, however, if we do not provide substantial service in accordance with the new build-out requirements.

In 2016, the MVDDS 5G Coalition, of which we are a member, filed a petition for rulemaking requesting the FCC to consider updating the rules to allow us to provide two-way 5G services using our MVDDS licenses.  We cannot predict when or if the FCC will grant the petition and proceed with a rulemaking.  If the FCC adopts rules that would allow us to provide two-way 5G services using our MVDDS licenses, the requests of OneWeb and others for authority to use the band for service from NGSO satellite systems may hinder our ability to provide 5G services using our MVDDS licenses.

LMDS Licenses.  As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, we acquired from EchoStar certain Local Multipoint Distribution Service (“LMDS”) licenses in four markets: Cheyenne, Kansas City, Phoenix, and San Diego.  The “substantial service” milestone has been met with respect to each of the licenses.  These licenses expire in September 2018 unless they are renewed for an additional ten years.  There can be no assurances that the FCC will renew our licenses.  In addition, through the FCC’s Spectrum Frontiers proceeding, a portion of each of our LMDS licenses will be reassigned to the Upper Microwave Flexible Use Service band (27.5-28.35 GHz), which will allow for a more flexible use of the licenses, including, among other things, 5G mobile operations.

Commercialization of Our Wireless Spectrum Licenses and Related Assets. We have made substantial investments to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.  We will need to make significant additional investments or partner with others to, among other things, commercialize, build-out, and integrate these licenses and related assets, and any additional acquired licenses and related assets; and comply with regulations applicable to such licenses.  Depending on the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, and regulatory compliance, any such investments or partnerships could vary significantly.  In addition, as we consider our options for the commercialization of our wireless spectrum, we will incur significant additional expenses and will have to make significant investments related to, among other things, research and development, wireless testing and wireless network infrastructure.  In March 2017, we notified the FCC that we plan to deploy a next-generation 5G-capable network, focused on supporting narrowband IoT.  The first phase of the network deployment will be completed by March 2020, with subsequent phases to be completed thereafter.  We may also determine that additional wireless spectrum licenses may be required to commercialize our wireless business and to compete with other wireless service providers. 

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(Unaudited)

We may need to raise significant additional capital in the future to fund the efforts described above, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to develop and implement a business model that will realize a return on these wireless spectrum licenses or that we will be able to profitably deploy the assets represented by these wireless spectrum licenses, which may affect the carrying amount of these assets and our future financial condition or results of operations.

DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses

Through our wholly-owned subsidiaries American II and American III, we have made over $10 billion in certain non-controlling investments in Northstar Spectrum, the parent company of Northstar Wireless, and in SNR HoldCo, the parent company of SNR Wireless, respectively.  Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless each filed applications with the FCC to participate in Auction 97 (the “AWS-3 Auction”) for the purpose of acquiring certain AWS-3 Licenses.  Each of Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless applied to receive bidding credits of 25% as designated entities under applicable FCC rules.  In February 2015, one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries received a refund from the FCC of its $400 million upfront payment made in 2014 related to the AWS-3 Auction.

Northstar Wireless was the winning bidder for AWS-3 Licenses with gross winning bid amounts totaling approximately $7.845 billion, which after taking into account a 25% bidding credit, is approximately $5.884 billion.  SNR Wireless was the winning bidder for AWS-3 Licenses with gross winning bid amounts totaling approximately $5.482 billion, which after taking into account a 25% bidding credit, is approximately $4.112 billion.  In addition to the net winning bids, SNR Wireless made a bid withdrawal payment of approximately $8 million.

On August 18, 2015, the FCC released a Memorandum Opinion and Order, FCC 15-104 (the “Order”) in which the FCC determined, among other things, that DISH Network has a controlling interest in, and is an affiliate of, Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless, and therefore DISH Network’s revenues should be attributed to them, which in turn makes Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless ineligible to receive the 25% bidding credits (approximately $1.961 billion for Northstar Wireless and $1.370 billion for SNR Wireless) (each a “Bidding Credit Amount” and collectively the “Bidding Credit Amounts”).  Each of Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless has filed a notice of appeal and petition for review of the Order with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, challenging, among other things, the FCC’s determination that they are ineligible to receive the Bidding Credit Amounts.  Oral arguments were presented to the Court on September 26, 2016.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the timing or outcome of these proceedings.   

On October 1, 2015, DISH Network, American II, American III, Northstar Wireless, SNR Wireless, and certain other entities holding certain interests in Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless, entered into a series of arrangements with respect to the AWS-3 Licenses, as further described below. 

Letters Exchanged between Northstar Wireless and the FCC Wireless Bureau.  As outlined in letters exchanged between Northstar Wireless and the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau of the FCC (the “FCC Wireless Bureau”), Northstar Wireless paid the gross winning bid amounts for 261 AWS-3 Licenses (the “Northstar Licenses”) totaling approximately $5.619 billion through the application of funds already on deposit with the FCC.  Northstar Wireless also notified the FCC that it would not be paying the gross winning bid amounts for 84 AWS-3 Licenses totaling approximately $2.226 billion.

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(Unaudited)

As a result of the nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts, the FCC retained those licenses and Northstar Wireless owed the FCC an additional interim payment of approximately $334 million (the “Northstar Interim Payment”), which is equal to 15% of $2.226 billion.  The Northstar Interim Payment was recorded during the fourth quarter 2015 in “FCC auction expense” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.  Northstar Wireless immediately satisfied the Northstar Interim Payment through the application of funds already on deposit with the FCC and an additional loan from American II of approximately $69 million. As a result, the FCC will not deem Northstar Wireless to be a “current defaulter” under applicable FCC rules.

In addition, the FCC Wireless Bureau acknowledged that Northstar Wireless’ nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts does not constitute action involving gross misconduct, misrepresentation or bad faith. Therefore, the FCC concluded that such nonpayment will not affect the eligibility of Northstar Wireless, its investors (including DISH Network) or their respective affiliates to participate in future spectrum auctions (including Auction 1000 and any re-auction of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC).  At this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction of those AWS-3 licenses.

If the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC are greater than or equal to the winning bids of Northstar Wireless, no additional amounts will be owed to the FCC.  However, if those winning bids are less than the winning bids of Northstar Wireless, then Northstar Wireless will be responsible for the difference less any overpayment of the Northstar Interim Payment (which will be recalculated as 15% of the winning bids from re-auction or other award) (the “Northstar Re-Auction Payment”).  For example, if the winning bids in a re-auction are $1, the Northstar Re-Auction Payment would be approximately $1.892 billion, which is calculated as the difference between $2.226 billion (the Northstar winning bid amounts) and $1 (the winning bids from re-auction) less the resulting $334 million overpayment of the Northstar Interim Payment.  As discussed above, at this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the timing or outcome of any re-auction or the amount of any Northstar Re-Auction Payment.

Amendment to Northstar Wireless Credit Agreement.  On October 1, 2015, American II, Northstar Wireless and Northstar Spectrum amended the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated October 13, 2014, by and among American II, as Lender, Northstar Wireless, as Borrower, and Northstar Spectrum, as Guarantor (as amended, the “Northstar Credit Agreement”), to provide, among other things, that:  (i) the Northstar Interim Payment and any Northstar Re-Auction Payment will be made by American II directly to the FCC and will be deemed as loans under the Northstar Credit Agreement; (ii) the FCC is a third-party beneficiary with respect to American II’s obligation to pay the Northstar Interim Payment and any Northstar Re-Auction Payment; (iii) in the event that the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 Licenses retained by the FCC are less than the winning bids of Northstar Wireless, the purchaser, assignee or transferee of any AWS-3 Licenses from Northstar Wireless is obligated to pay its pro-rata share of the difference (and Northstar Wireless remains jointly and severally liable for such pro-rata share); and (iv) during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC Northstar Guaranty (as discussed below) and the date such guaranteed payments are paid, Northstar Wireless’ payment obligations to American II under the Northstar Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments.

DISH Network Guaranty in Favor of the FCC for Certain Northstar Wireless Obligations.  On October 1, 2015, DISH Network entered into a guaranty in favor of the FCC (the “FCC Northstar Guaranty”) with respect to the Northstar Interim Payment (which was satisfied on October 1, 2015) and any Northstar Re-Auction Payment.  The FCC Northstar Guaranty provides, among other things, that during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC Northstar Guaranty and the date such guaranteed payments are paid:  (i) Northstar Wireless’ payment obligations to American II under the Northstar Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments; and (ii) DISH Network or American II will withhold exercising certain rights as a creditor of Northstar Wireless.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Letters Exchanged between SNR Wireless and the FCC Wireless Bureau.As outlined in letters exchanged between SNR Wireless and the FCC Wireless Bureau, SNR Wireless paid the gross winning bid amounts for 244 AWS-3 Licenses (the “SNR Licenses”) totaling approximately $4.271 billion through the application of funds already on deposit with the FCC and a portion of an additional loan from American III in an aggregate amount of approximately $344 million (which included an additional bid withdrawal payment of approximately $3 million).  SNR Wireless also notified the FCC that it would not be paying the gross winning bid amounts for 113 AWS-3 Licenses totaling approximately $1.211 billion.

As a result of the nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts, the FCC retained those licenses and SNR Wireless owed the FCC an additional interim payment of approximately $182 million (the “SNR Interim Payment”), which is equal to 15% of $1.211 billion.  The SNR Interim Payment was recorded during the fourth quarter 2015 in “FCC auction expense” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.  SNR Wireless immediately satisfied the SNR Interim Payment through a portion of an additional loan from American III in an aggregate amount of approximately $344 million.  As a result, the FCC will not deem SNR Wireless to be a “current defaulter” under applicable FCC rules.

In addition, the FCC Wireless Bureau acknowledged that SNR Wireless’ nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts does not constitute action involving gross misconduct, misrepresentation or bad faith.  Therefore, the FCC concluded that such nonpayment will not affect the eligibility of SNR Wireless, its investors (including DISH Network) or their respective affiliates to participate in future spectrum auctions (including Auction 1000 and any re-auction of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC).  At this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction of those AWS-3 licenses.

If the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC are greater than or equal to the winning bids of SNR Wireless, no additional amounts will be owed to the FCC.  However, if those winning bids are less than the winning bids of SNR Wireless, then SNR Wireless will be responsible for the difference less any overpayment of the SNR Interim Payment (which will be recalculated as 15% of the winning bids from re-auction or other award) (the “SNR Re-Auction Payment”).  For example, if the winning bids in a re-auction are $1, the SNR Re-Auction Payment would be approximately $1.029 billion, which is calculated as the difference between $1.211 billion (the SNR winning bid amounts) and $1 (the winning bids from re-auction) less the resulting $182 million overpayment of the SNR Interim Payment.  As discussed above, at this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the timing or outcome of any re-auction or the amount of any SNR Re-Auction Payment.

Amendment to SNR Wireless Credit Agreement.  On October 1, 2015, American III, SNR Wireless and SNR HoldCo amended the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated October 13, 2014, by and among American III, as Lender, SNR Wireless, as Borrower, and SNR HoldCo, as Guarantor (as amended, the “SNR Credit Agreement”), to provide, among other things, that:  (i) the SNR Interim Payment and any SNR Re-Auction Payment will be made by American III directly to the FCC and will be deemed as loans under the SNR Credit Agreement; (ii) the FCC is a third-party beneficiary with respect to American III’s obligation to pay the SNR Interim Payment and any SNR Re-Auction Payment; (iii) in the event that the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 Licenses retained by the FCC are less than the winning bids of SNR Wireless, the purchaser, assignee or transferee of any AWS-3 Licenses from SNR Wireless is obligated to pay its pro-rata share of the difference (and SNR Wireless remains jointly and severally liable for such pro-rata share); and (iv) during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC SNR Guaranty (as discussed below) and the date such guaranteed payments are paid, SNR Wireless’ payment obligations to American III under the SNR Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments. 

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DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

DISH Network Guaranty in Favor of the FCC for Certain SNR Wireless Obligations.  On October 1, 2015, DISH Network entered into a guaranty in favor of the FCC (the “FCC SNR Guaranty”) with respect to the SNR Interim Payment (which was satisfied on October 1, 2015) and any SNR Re-Auction Payment.  The FCC SNR Guaranty provides, among other things, that  during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC SNR Guaranty and the date such guaranteed payments are paid:  (i) SNR Wireless’ payment obligations to American III under the SNR Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments; and (ii) DISH Network or American III will withhold exercising certain rights as a creditor of SNR Wireless.

Northstar Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northstar Spectrum.  Through American II, we own an 85% non-controlling interest in Northstar Spectrum.  Northstar Manager owns a 15% controlling interest in, and is the sole manager of, Northstar Spectrum.  Northstar Spectrum is governed by a limited liability company agreement by and between American II and Northstar Manager (the “Northstar Spectrum LLC Agreement”).  Pursuant to the Northstar Spectrum LLC Agreement, American II and Northstar Manager made pro-rata equity contributions in Northstar Spectrum.  As of October 1, 2015, the total equity contributions from American II and Northstar Manager to Northstar Spectrum were approximately $750 million and $133 million, respectively.  As of October 1, 2015, the total loans from American II to Northstar Wireless under the Northstar Credit Agreement for payments to the FCC related to the Northstar Licenses were approximately $5.070 billion.

SNR Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNR HoldCo.  Through American III, we own an 85% non-controlling interest in SNR HoldCo.  SNR Management owns a 15% controlling interest in, and is the sole manager of, SNR HoldCo.  SNR HoldCo is governed by a limited liability company agreement by and between American III and SNR Management (the “SNR HoldCo LLC Agreement”).  Pursuant to the SNR HoldCo LLC Agreement, American III and SNR Management made pro-rata equity contributions in SNR HoldCo.  As of October 1, 2015, the total equity contributions from American III and SNR Management to SNR HoldCo were approximately $524 million and $93 million, respectively.  As of October 1, 2015, the total loans from American III to SNR Wireless under the SNR Credit Agreement for payments to the FCC related to the SNR Licenses were approximately $3.847 billion.

After Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless satisfied their respective payments to the FCC on October 1, 2015 for the Northstar Licenses and the SNR Licenses, and the Northstar Interim Payment and the SNR Interim Payment (which included an additional bid withdrawal payment), our total non-controlling debt and equity investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities for payments to the FCC related to the AWS-3 Licenses were approximately $10.191 billion.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, Northstar Spectrum and SNR HoldCo are considered variable interest entities and, based on the characteristics of the structure of these entities and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate these entities into our financial statements.  See Note 2 for further information.

On October 27, 2015, the FCC granted the Northstar Licenses to Northstar Wireless and the SNR Licenses to SNR Wireless, respectively, which are recorded in “FCC authorizations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The AWS-3 Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  By October 2021, Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 40% of the population in each area covered by an individual AWS-3 License (the “AWS-3 Interim Build-Out Requirement”).  By October 2027, Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 75% of the population in each area covered by an individual AWS-3 License (the “AWS-3 Final Build-Out Requirement”).  If the AWS-3 Interim Build-Out Requirement is not met, the AWS-3 License term and the AWS-3 Final Build-Out Requirement may be accelerated by two years (from October 2027 to October 2025) for each AWS-3 License area in which Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless do not meet the requirement.  If the AWS-3 Final Build-Out Requirement is not met, the authorization for each AWS-3 License area in which Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless do not meet the requirement may terminate. 

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

In addition, on September 23, 2016, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia unsealed a qui tam complaint that was filed by Vermont National Telephone Company (“Vermont National”) against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries, American AWS-3 Wireless I L.L.C., American II, American III, and DISH Wireless Holding L.L.C.; Charles W. Ergen (our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer) and Cantey M. Ergen (a member of our board of directors); Northstar Wireless; Northstar Spectrum; Northstar Manager; SNR Wireless; SNR HoldCo; SNR Management; and certain other parties.  See “Contingencies – Litigation – Vermont National Telephone Company” for further information.

We may need to make significant additional loans to the Northstar Entities and to the SNR Entities, or they may need to partner with others, so that the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities may commercialize, build-out and integrate the Northstar Licenses and the SNR Licenses, comply with regulations applicable to the Northstar Licenses and the SNR Licenses, and make any potential payments related to the re-auction of AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC.  Depending upon the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, regulatory compliance, and potential re-auction payments, any such loans or partnerships could vary significantly.  We may need to raise significant additional capital in the future, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, to make further investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain a profitable return on our non-controlling investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities. 

Guarantees

During the third quarter 2009, EchoStar entered into a satellite transponder service agreement for Nimiq 5 through 2024.  We sublease this capacity from EchoStar and also guarantee a certain portion of EchoStar’s obligation under its satellite transponder service agreement through 2019.  As of June 30, 2017, the remaining obligation of our guarantee was $158 million.

As of June 30, 2017, we have not recorded a liability on the balance sheet for this guarantee.

Contingencies

Separation Agreement

On January 1, 2008, we completed the distribution of our technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar.  In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a separation agreement with EchoStar that provides, among other things, for the division of certain liabilities, including liabilities resulting from litigation.  Under the terms of the separation agreement, EchoStar has assumed certain liabilities that relate to its business, including certain designated liabilities for acts or omissions that occurred prior to the Spin-off.  Certain specific provisions govern intellectual property related claims under which, generally, EchoStar will only be liable for its acts or omissions following the Spin-off and we will indemnify EchoStar for any liabilities or damages resulting from intellectual property claims relating to the period prior to the Spin-off, as well as our acts or omissions following the Spin-off.  On February 28, 2017, we and EchoStar completed the Share Exchange pursuant to which certain assets that were transferred to EchoStar in the Spin-off were transferred back to us.  The Share Exchange Agreement contains additional indemnification provisions between us and EchoStar for certain liabilities and legal proceedings.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Litigation

We are involved in a number of legal proceedings (including those described below) concerning matters arising in connection with the conduct of our business activities.  Many of these proceedings are at preliminary stages, and many of these proceedings seek an indeterminate amount of damages.  We regularly evaluate the status of the legal proceedings in which we are involved to assess whether a loss is probable or there is a reasonable possibility that a loss or an additional loss may have been incurred and to determine if accruals are appropriate.  If accruals are not appropriate, we further evaluate each legal proceeding to assess whether an estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss can be made.

For certain cases described on the following pages, management is unable to provide a meaningful estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss because, among other reasons, (i) the proceedings are in various stages; (ii) damages have not been sought; (iii) damages are unsupported and/or exaggerated; (iv) there is uncertainty as to the outcome of pending appeals or motions; (v) there are significant factual issues to be resolved; and/or (vi) there are novel legal issues or unsettled legal theories to be presented or a large number of parties (as with many patent-related cases).  For these cases, however, management does not believe, based on currently available information, that the outcomes of these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, though the outcomes could be material to our operating results for any particular period, depending, in part, upon the operating results for such period.

ClearPlay, Inc.

On March 13, 2014, ClearPlay, Inc. (“ClearPlay”) filed a complaint against us, our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C., EchoStar, and its then wholly-owned subsidiary EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., in the United States District Court for the District of Utah.  The complaint alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,898,799 (the “799 patent”), entitled “Multimedia Content Navigation and Playback”; 7,526,784 (the “784 patent”), entitled “Delivery of Navigation Data for Playback of Audio and Video Content”; 7,543,318 (the “318 patent”), entitled “Delivery of Navigation Data for Playback of Audio and Video Content”; 7,577,970 (the “970 patent”), entitled “Multimedia Content Navigation and Playback”; and 8,117,282 (the “282 patent”), entitled “Media Player Configured to Receive Playback Filters From Alternative Storage Mediums.”  ClearPlay alleges that the AutoHop™ feature of our Hopper set-top box infringes the asserted patents.  On February 11, 2015, the case was stayed pending various third-party challenges before the United States Patent and Trademark Office regarding the validity of certain of the patents asserted in the action.  In those third-party challenges, the United States Patent and Trademark Office found that all claims of the 282 patent are unpatentable, and that certain claims of the 784 patent and 318 patent are unpatentable.  ClearPlay appealed as to the 784 patent and the 318 patent, and on August 23, 2016, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the findings of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.  On October 31, 2016, the stay was lifted.  No trial date has been set.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

CRFD Research, Inc. (a subsidiary of Marathon Patent Group, Inc.)

On January 17, 2014, CRFD Research, Inc. (“CRFD”) filed a complaint against us, our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH DBS Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C., EchoStar, and its then wholly-owned subsidiary EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 7,191,233 (the “233 patent”).  The 233 patent is entitled “System for Automated, Mid-Session, User-Directed, Device-to-Device Session Transfer System,” and relates to transferring an ongoing software session from one device to another.  CRFD alleges that our Hopper and Joey® set-top boxes infringe the 233 patent.  On the same day, CRFD filed similar complaints against AT&T Inc.; Comcast Corp.; DirecTV; Time Warner Cable Inc.; Cox Communications, Inc.; Akamai Technologies, Inc.; Cablevision Systems Corp. and Limelight Networks, Inc.  CRFD is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  On January 26, 2015, we and EchoStar filed a petition before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 233 patent.  The United States Patent and Trademark Office has agreed to institute a proceeding on our petition, as well as on two third-party petitions challenging the validity of certain claims of the 233 patent, and it heard oral argument on January 16, 2016.  On June 1, 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office found that all claims asserted against us and the EchoStar parties were unpatentable.  On July 5, 2016, CRFD filed a notice of appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, which heard oral argument on April 6, 2017.  The litigation in the District Court has been stayed since June 4, 2015 pending resolution of our petition to the United States Patent and Trademark Office. 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Customedia Technologies, L.L.C.

On February 10, 2016, Customedia Technologies, L.L.C. (“Customedia”) filed a complaint against us and our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.  The complaint alleges infringement of four patents: United States Patent No. 8,719,090 (the “090 patent”); United States Patent No. 9,053,494 (the “494 patent”); United States Patent No. 7,840,437 (the “437 patent”); and United States Patent No. 8,955,029 (the “029 patent”).  Each patent is entitled “System for Data Management And On-Demand Rental And Purchase Of Digital Data Products.”  Customedia appears to allege infringement in connection with our addressable advertising services, our DISH Anywhere feature, and our Pay-Per-View and video-on-demand offerings.  In December 2016 and January 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed petitions with the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of the asserted claims of each of the asserted patents.  On June 12, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions challenging the 090 patent and the 437 patent; on July 18, 2017, it agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions challenging the 029 patent; and on July 28, 2017, it agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions challenging the 437 patent.  These instituted proceedings cover all asserted claims of each of the asserted patents.  Trial has been set for August 31, 2017, and we have requested a stay pending resolution of the proceedings at the United States Patent and Trademark Office.  Customedia is an entity that seeks to license a patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Do Not Call Litigation

On March 25, 2009, our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. was sued in a civil action by the United States Attorney General and several states in the United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois (the “FTC Action”), alleging violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (“TCPA”) and the Telemarketing Sales Rule (“TSR”), as well as analogous state statutes and state consumer protection laws.  The plaintiffs alleged that we, directly and through certain independent third-party retailers and their affiliates, committed certain telemarketing violations.  On December 23, 2013, the plaintiffs filed a motion for summary judgment, which indicated for the first time that the state plaintiffs were seeking civil penalties and damages of approximately $270 million and that the federal plaintiff was seeking an unspecified amount of civil penalties (which could substantially exceed the civil penalties and damages being sought by the state plaintiffs).  The plaintiffs were also seeking injunctive relief that if granted would, among other things, enjoin DISH Network L.L.C., whether acting directly or indirectly through authorized telemarketers or independent third-party retailers, from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services for five years, and enjoin DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting activations or sales from certain existing independent third-party retailers and from certain new independent third-party retailers, except under certain circumstances.  We also filed a motion for summary judgment, seeking dismissal of all claims.  On December 12, 2014, the Court issued its opinion with respect to the parties’ summary judgment motions.  The Court found that DISH Network L.L.C. was entitled to partial summary judgment with respect to one claim in the action.  In addition, the Court found that the plaintiffs were entitled to partial summary judgment with respect to ten claims in the action, which included, among other things, findings by the Court establishing DISH Network L.L.C.’s liability for a substantial amount of the alleged outbound telemarketing calls by DISH Network L.L.C. and certain of its independent third-party retailers that were the subject of the plaintiffs’ motion.  The Court did not issue any injunctive relief and did not make any determination on civil penalties or damages, ruling instead that the scope of any injunctive relief and the amount of any civil penalties or damages were questions for trial. 

In pre-trial disclosures, the federal plaintiff indicated that it intended to seek up to $900 million in alleged civil penalties, and the state plaintiffs indicated that they intended to seek as much as $23.5 billion in alleged civil penalties and damages.  The plaintiffs also modified their request for injunctive relief.  Their requested injunction, if granted, would have enjoined DISH Network L.L.C. from placing outbound telemarketing calls unless and until: (i) DISH Network L.L.C. hired a third-party consulting organization to perform a review of its call center operations; (ii) such third-party consulting organization submitted a telemarketing compliance plan to the Court and the federal plaintiff; (iii) the Court held a hearing on the adequacy of the plan; (iv) if the Court approved the plan, DISH Network L.L.C. implemented the plan and verified to the Court that it had implemented the plan; and (v) the Court issued an order permitting DISH Network L.L.C. to resume placing outbound telemarketing calls.  The plaintiffs’ modified request for injunctive relief, if granted, would have also enjoined DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting customer orders solicited by certain independent third-party retailers unless and until a similar third-party review and Court approval process was followed with respect to the telemarketing activities of its independent third-party retailer base to ensure compliance with the TSR.

The first phase of the bench trial took place January 19, 2016 through February 11, 2016.  In closing briefs, the federal plaintiff indicated that it still was seeking $900 million in alleged civil penalties; the California state plaintiff indicated that it was seeking $100 million in alleged civil penalties and damages for its state law claims (in addition to any amounts sought on its federal law claims); the Ohio state plaintiff indicated that it was seeking approximately $10 million in alleged civil penalties and damages for its state law claims (in addition to any amounts sought on its federal law claims); and the Illinois and North Carolina state plaintiffs did not state the specific alleged civil penalties and damages that they were seeking; but the state plaintiffs took the general position that any damages award less than $1.0 billion (presumably for both federal and state law claims) would not raise constitutional concerns.  Under the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, excessive fines may not be imposed. 

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On October 3, 2016, the plaintiffs further modified their request for injunctive relief, and were seeking, among other things, to enjoin DISH Network L.L.C., whether acting directly or indirectly through authorized telemarketers or independent third-party retailers, from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services for five years, and enjoin DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting activations or sales from some or all existing independent third-party retailers.  The second phase of the bench trial, which commenced on October 25, 2016 and concluded on November 2, 2016, covered the plaintiffs’ requested injunctive relief, as well as certain evidence related to the state plaintiffs’ claims.

On June 5, 2017, the Court issued Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law and entered Judgment ordering DISH Network L.L.C. to pay an aggregate amount of $280 million to the federal and state plaintiffs.  The Court also issued a Permanent Injunction (the “Injunction”) against DISH Network L.L.C. that imposes certain ongoing compliance requirements on DISH Network L.L.C., which include, among other things: (i) the retention of a telemarketing-compliance expert to prepare a plan to ensure that DISH Network L.L.C. and certain independent third-party retailers will continue to comply with telemarketing laws and the Injunction; (ii) certain telemarketing records retention and production requirements; and (iii) certain compliance reporting and monitoring requirements.  In addition to the compliance requirements under the Injunction, within ninety (90) days after the effective date of the Injunction, DISH Network L.L.C. is required to demonstrate that it and certain independent third-party retailers are in compliance with the Safe Harbor Provisions of the TSR and TCPA and have made no prerecorded telemarketing calls during the five (5) years prior to the effective date of the Injunction (collectively, the “Demonstration Requirements”).  If DISH Network L.L.C. fails to prove that it meets the Demonstration Requirements, it will be barred from conducting any outbound telemarketing for two (2) years.  If DISH Network L.L.C. fails to prove that a particular independent third-party retailer meets the Demonstration Requirements, DISH Network L.L.C. will be barred from accepting orders from that independent third-party retailer for two (2) years.  On July 3, 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed two motions with the Court:  (1) to alter or amend the Judgment or in the alternative to amend the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law; and (2) to clarify, alter and amend the Injunction.  During the three months ended June 30, 2017, we recorded $255 million of “Litigation expense” related to the FTC Action on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  We recorded $25 million of “Litigation expense” related to the FTC Action during prior periods.  Our total accrual at June 30, 2017 related to the FTC Action was $280 million and is included in “Other accrued expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Any eventual payments made with respect to the FTC Action may not be deductible for tax purposes, which had a negative impact on our effective tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.  The tax deductibility of any eventual payments made with respect to the FTC Action may change, based upon, among other things, further developments in the FTC Action, including final adjudication of the FTC Action. 

We may also from time to time be subject to private civil litigation alleging telemarketing violations.  For example, a portion of the alleged telemarketing violations by an independent third-party retailer at issue in the FTC Action are also the subject of a certified class action filed against DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina (the “Krakauer Action”).  Following a five-day trial, on January 19, 2017, a jury in that case found that the independent third-party retailer was acting as DISH Network L.L.C.’s agent when it made the 51,119 calls at issue in that case, and that class members are eligible to recover $400 in damages for each call made in violation of the TCPA.  On March 7, 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed motions with the Court for judgment as a matter of law and, in the alternative, for a new trial, which the Court denied on May 16, 2017.  On May 22, 2017, the Court ruled that the violations were willful and knowing, and trebled the damages award to $1,200 for each call made in violation of TCPA.  During the three months ended June 30, 2017, we recorded $41 million of “Litigation expense” related to the Krakauer Action on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  We recorded $20 million of “Litigation expense” related to the Krakauer Action during the fourth quarter 2016.  Our total accrual related to the Krakauer Action at June 30, 2017 was $61 million and is included in “Other accrued expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

We intend to vigorously defend these cases.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of these suits.

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Dragon Intellectual Property, LLC

On December 20, 2013, Dragon Intellectual Property, LLC (“Dragon IP”) filed complaints against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C., as well as Apple Inc.; AT&T, Inc.; Charter Communications, Inc.; Comcast Corp.; Cox Communications, Inc.; DirecTV; Sirius XM Radio Inc.; Time Warner Cable Inc. and Verizon Communications, Inc., in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 5,930,444 (the “444 patent”), which is entitled “Simultaneous Recording and Playback Apparatus.”  Dragon IP alleges that various of our DVR receivers infringe the 444 patent.  Dragon IP is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  On December 23, 2014, DISH Network L.L.C. filed a petition before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 444 patent.  On April 10, 2015, the Court granted DISH Network L.L.C.’s motion to stay the action in light of DISH Network L.L.C.’s petition and certain other defendants’ petitions pending before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 444 patent.  On July 17, 2015, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute a proceeding on our petition.  Pursuant to a stipulation between the parties, on April 27, 2016, the Court entered an order of non-infringement and judgment in favor of DISH Network L.L.C.  On June 15, 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office entered an order that the patent claims being asserted against DISH Network L.L.C. with respect to the 444 patent are unpatentable.  On August 8, 2016, Dragon filed notices of appeal with respect to the Court’s judgment and the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s decision.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Grecia

On March 27, 2015, William Grecia (“Grecia”) filed a complaint against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 8,533,860 (the “860 patent”), which is entitled “Personalized Digital Media Access System—PDMAS Part II.”  Grecia alleges that we violate the 860 patent in connection with our digital rights management.  Grecia is the named inventor on the 860 patent.  On June 22, 2015, the case was transferred to the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.  On November 18, 2015, Grecia filed an amended complaint adding allegations that we infringe U.S. Patent No. 8,402,555 (the “555 patent”), which is entitled “Personalized Digital Media Access System (PDMAS).”  Grecia is the named inventor on the 555 patent.  Grecia alleges that we violate the 555 patent in connection with our digital rights management.  Grecia dismissed his action with prejudice on February 3, 2016.

On February 3, 2016, Grecia filed a new complaint against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 8,887,308 (the “308 patent”), which is entitled “Digital Cloud Access—PDMAS Part III,” on which Grecia is also the named inventor.  Grecia alleges that we violate the 308 patent in connection with our DISH Anywhere feature.  On July 29, 2016, DISH Network L.L.C. filed a petition before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 308 patent.  On January 19, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office declined to institute a proceeding on our petition.  The litigation in the District Court, which had been stayed since June 13, 2016 pending resolution of DISH Network L.L.C.’s petition to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, was further stayed on February 23, 2017 pending a claim construction order from the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York in a separate action in which Grecia is asserting the same patent.

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We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

IPA Technologies Inc.

On December 9, 2016, IPA Technologies Inc. (“IPA”) filed suit against us and our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware.  IPA alleges that our Voice Remote with Hopper 3 infringes United States Patent Number 6,742,021 (the “021 patent”), which is entitled “Navigating Network-based Electronic Information Using Spoken Input with Multimodal Error Feedback”; United States Patent Number 6,523,061 (the “061 patent”), which is entitled “System, Method, and Article of Manufacture for Agent-Based Navigation in a Speech-Based Data Navigation System”; and United States Patent Number 6,757,718 (the “718 patent”), which is entitled “Mobile Navigation of Network-Based Electronic Information Using Spoken Input.”  IPA is an entity that seeks to license a patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

LightSquared/Harbinger Capital Partners LLC (LightSquared Bankruptcy)

As previously disclosed in our public filings, L-Band Acquisition, LLC (“LBAC”), our wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into a Plan Support Agreement (the “PSA”) with certain senior secured lenders to LightSquared LP (the “LightSquared LP Lenders”) on July 23, 2013, which contemplated the purchase by LBAC of substantially all of the assets of LightSquared LP and certain of its subsidiaries (the “LBAC Bid”) that are debtors and debtors in possession in the LightSquared bankruptcy cases pending in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Bankruptcy Court”), which cases are jointly administered under the caption In re LightSquared Inc., et. al., Case No. 12 12080 (SCC).

Pursuant to the PSA, LBAC was entitled to terminate the PSA in certain circumstances, certain of which required three business days written notice, including, without limitation, in the event that certain milestones specified in the PSA were not met.  On January 7, 2014, LBAC delivered written notice of termination of the PSA to the LightSquared LP Lenders.  As a result, the PSA terminated effective on January 10, 2014, and the LBAC Bid was withdrawn.

On August 6, 2013, Harbinger Capital Partners LLC and other affiliates of Harbinger (collectively, “Harbinger”), a shareholder of LightSquared Inc., filed an adversary proceeding against us, LBAC, EchoStar, Charles W. Ergen (our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer), SP Special Opportunities, LLC (“SPSO”) (an entity controlled by Mr. Ergen), and certain other parties, in the Bankruptcy Court.  Harbinger alleged, among other things, claims based on fraud, unfair competition, civil conspiracy and tortious interference with prospective economic advantage related to certain purchases of LightSquared secured debt by SPSO.  Subsequently, LightSquared intervened to join in certain claims alleged against certain defendants other than us, LBAC and EchoStar.

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On October 29, 2013, the Bankruptcy Court dismissed all of the claims in Harbinger’s complaint in their entirety, but granted leave for LightSquared to file its own complaint in intervention.  On November 15, 2013, LightSquared filed its complaint, which included various claims against us, EchoStar, Mr. Ergen and SPSO.  On December 2, 2013, Harbinger filed an amended complaint, asserting various claims against SPSO.  On December 12, 2013, the Bankruptcy Court dismissed several of the claims asserted by LightSquared and Harbinger.  The surviving claims included, among others, LightSquared’s claims against SPSO for declaratory relief, breach of contract and statutory disallowance; LightSquared’s tortious interference claim against us, EchoStar and Mr. Ergen; and Harbinger’s claim against SPSO for statutory disallowance.  These claims proceeded to a non-jury trial on January 9, 2014.  In its Post-Trial Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law entered on June 10, 2014, the Bankruptcy Court rejected all claims against us and EchoStar, and it rejected some but not all claims against the other defendants.  On July 7, 2015, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York denied Harbinger’s motion for an interlocutory appeal of certain Bankruptcy Court orders in the adversary proceeding.  On March 27, 2015, the Bankruptcy Court entered an order confirming the Modified Second Amended Joint Plan pursuant to Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code and, on December 7, 2015, the Plan became effective.

We intend to vigorously defend any claims against us in this proceeding and cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of this proceeding or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

LightSquared Transaction Shareholder Derivative Actions

On August 9, 2013, a purported shareholder of the Company, Jacksonville Police and Fire Pension Fund (“Jacksonville PFPF”), filed a putative shareholder derivative action in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada alleging, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty claims against the members of the Company’s Board of Directors as of that date:  Charles W. Ergen; Joseph P. Clayton; James DeFranco; Cantey M. Ergen; Steven R. Goodbarn; David K. Moskowitz; Tom A. Ortolf; and Carl E. Vogel (collectively, the “Director Defendants”).  In its first amended complaint, Jacksonville PFPF asserted claims that Mr. Ergen breached his fiduciary duty to the Company in connection with certain purchases of LightSquared debt by SPSO, an entity controlled by Mr. Ergen, and that the other Director Defendants aided and abetted that alleged breach of duty.  The Jacksonville PFPF claims alleged that (1) the debt purchases created an impermissible conflict of interest and (2) put at risk the LBAC Bid, which as noted above was withdrawn.  Jacksonville PFPF further claimed that most members of the Company’s Board of Directors are beholden to Mr. Ergen to an extent that prevents them from discharging their duties in connection with the Company’s participation in the LightSquared bankruptcy auction process.  Jacksonville PFPF is seeking an unspecified amount of damages.  Jacksonville PFPF dismissed its claims against Mr. Goodbarn on October 8, 2013.

Jacksonville PFPF sought a preliminary injunction that would enjoin Mr. Ergen and all of the Director Defendants other than Mr. Goodbarn from influencing the Company’s efforts to acquire certain assets of LightSquared in the bankruptcy proceeding.  On November 27, 2013, the Court denied that request but granted narrower relief enjoining Mr. Ergen and anyone acting on his behalf from participating in negotiations related to one aspect of the LBAC Bid, which, as noted above, was withdrawn.

Five alleged shareholders filed substantially similar putative derivative complaints in state and federal courts alleging the same or substantially similar claims.  On September 18, 2013, DCM Multi-Manager Fund, LLC filed a duplicative putative derivative complaint in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada, which was consolidated with the Jacksonville PFPF action on October 9, 2013.  Between September 25, 2013 and October 2, 2013, City of Daytona Beach Police Officers and Firefighters Retirement System, Louisiana Municipal Police Employees’ Retirement System and Iron Worker Mid-South Pension Fund filed duplicative putative derivative complaints in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado.  Also on October 2, 2013, Iron Workers District Council (Philadelphia and Vicinity) Retirement and Pension Plan filed its complaint in the United States District Court for the District of Nevada.

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On October 11, 2013, Iron Worker Mid-South Pension Fund dismissed its claims without prejudice.  On October 30, 2013, Louisiana Municipal Police Employees’ Retirement System dismissed its claims without prejudice and, on January 2, 2014, filed a new complaint in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada, which, on May 2, 2014, was consolidated with the Jacksonville PFPF action.  On December 13, 2013, City of Daytona Beach Police Officers and Firefighters Retirement System voluntarily dismissed its claims without prejudice.  On March 28, 2014, Iron Workers District Council (Philadelphia and Vicinity) Retirement and Pension Plan voluntarily dismissed its claims without prejudice.

On July 25, 2014, Jacksonville PFPF filed a second amended complaint, which added claims against George R. Brokaw and Charles M. Lillis, as Director Defendants, and Thomas A. Cullen, R. Stanton Dodge and K. Jason Kiser, as officers of the Company.  Jacksonville PFPF asserted five claims in its second amended complaint, each of which alleged breaches of the duty of loyalty.  Three of the claims were asserted solely against Mr. Ergen; one claim was made against all of the remaining Director Defendants, other than Mr. Ergen and Mr. Clayton; and the final claim was made against Messrs. Cullen, Dodge and Kiser.

Our Board of Directors established a Special Litigation Committee to review the factual allegations and legal claims in these actions.  On October 24, 2014, the Special Litigation Committee filed a report in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada regarding its investigation of the claims and allegations asserted in Jacksonville PFPF’s second amended complaint.  The Special Litigation Committee filed a motion to dismiss the action based, among other things, on its business judgment that it is in the best interests of the Company not to pursue the claims asserted by Jacksonville PFPF.  The Director Defendants and Messrs. Cullen, Dodge and Kiser have also filed various motions to dismiss the action.  In an order entered on September 18, 2015, the Court granted the Special Litigation Committee’s motion to defer to the Special Litigation Committee’s October 24, 2014 report, including its finding that dismissal of the action is in the best interest of the Company.  The Court also held that, in light of granting the motion to defer, the pending motions to dismiss filed by the individual defendants were denied without prejudice as moot.  On October 12, 2015, Jacksonville PFPF filed a notice of appeal to the Supreme Court of Nevada, which heard oral argument on June 5, 2017.We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of these suits or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Michael Heskiaoff, Marc Langenohl, and Rafael Mann

On July 10, 2015, Messrs. Michael Heskiaoff and Marc Langenohl, purportedly on behalf of themselves and all others similarly situated, filed suit against our subsidiary Sling Media, Inc. (now known as “Sling Media L.L.C.,” which we acquired as a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.  The complaint alleges that Sling Media Inc.’s display of advertising to its customers violates a number of state statutes dealing with consumer deception.  On September 25, 2015, the plaintiffs filed an amended complaint, and Mr. Rafael Mann, purportedly on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, filed an additional complaint alleging similar causes of action.  On November 16, 2015, the cases were consolidated.  On August 12, 2016, the Court granted our motion to dismiss the consolidated case.  On September 12, 2016, the plaintiffs moved the Court for leave to file an amended complaint, which we opposed.  On March 22, 2017, the Court denied the plaintiffs’ motion for leave to file an amended complaint and entered judgment in favor of Sling Media L.L.C.  On April 17, 2017, the plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

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Realtime Data LLC

On June 6, 2017, Realtime Data LLC d/b/a IXO (“Realtime”) filed an amended complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH Network L.L.C., EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., Sling TV L.L.C. and Sling Media L.L.C.; EchoStar, and EchoStar’s wholly-owned subsidiary Hughes Network Systems, LLC; and Arris Group, Inc.  The amended complaint alleges infringement of U.S. Patent No. 8,717,204 (the “204 patent”), entitled “Methods for encoding and decoding data”; U.S. Patent No. 9,054,728 (the “728 patent”), entitled “Data compression systems and methods”; U.S. Patent No. 7,358,867 (the “867 patent”), entitled “Content independent data compression method and system”; U.S. Patent No. 8,502,707 (the “707 patent”), entitled “Data compression systems and methods”; U.S. Patent No. 8,275,897 (the “897 patent”), entitled “System and methods for accelerated data storage and retrieval”; U.S. Patent No. 8,867,610 (the “610 patent”), entitled “System and methods for video and audio data distribution”; U.S. Patent No. 8,934,535 (the “535 patent”), entitled “Systems and methods for video and audio data storage and distribution”; and U.S. Patent No. 8,553,759 (the “759 patent”), entitled “Bandwidth sensitive data compression and decompression.”  Realtime’s original complaint, filed on February 14, 2017, had named only EchoStar and Hughes Network Systems, LLC as defendants.  Realtime alleges that DISH, Sling TV, Sling Media and Arris streaming video products and services compliant with various versions of the H.264 video compression standard infringe the 897 patent, the 610 patent and the 535 patent, and that the data compression system in Hughes’ products and services infringe the 204 patent, the 728 patent, the 867 patent, the 707 patent and the 759 patent.  On July 19, 2017, the Court severed the claims against us, DISH Network L.L.C., Sling TV L.L.C., Sling Media L.L.C. and Arris Group, Inc. into a separate action.  Realtime is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C.

On January 22, 2009, Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. (“TDL”) filed suit against us and EchoStar, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. Re. 35,952 (the “952 patent”), which relates to certain favorite channel features.  TDL is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The case was stayed in July 2009 pending two reexamination petitions before the United States Patent and Trademark Office, which concluded in August 2015 and resulted in 42 out of the 53 claims of the 952 patent being invalidated.  Six of the surviving 11 claims are asserted against us.  The case resumed in August 2015.  In a separate matter in which TDL is asserting the same patent, the court in that action ruled that four claims of the 952 patent (which are among the six claims asserted against us) are invalid because they claim unpatentable subject matter, and TDL has stipulated that it will not appeal that order.  On June 19, 2017, the District Court ruled that the two remaining asserted claims of the 952 patent are invalid because they claim unpatentable subject matter.  On July 11, 2017, the parties filed a stipulation pursuant to which TDL dismissed the action and waived its appeal rights, and we and EchoStar agreed not to seek recovery of our court costs.  This matter is now concluded.

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TQ Beta LLC

On June 30, 2014, TQ Beta LLC (“TQ Beta”) filed a complaint against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH DBS Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C.; EchoStar; and EchoStar’s subsidiary Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation; and EchoStar’s then wholly-owned subsidiaries, Sling Media, Inc. (now known as “Sling Media L.L.C.”) and EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware.  The Complaint alleges infringement of United States Patent No. 7,203,456 (the “456 patent”), which is entitled “Method and Apparatus for Time and Space Domain Shifting of Broadcast Signals.”  TQ Beta alleges that our Hopper set-top boxes, ViP 722 and ViP 722k DVR devices, as well as our DISH Anywhere™ service and DISH Anywhere mobile application, infringe the 456 patent.  TQ Beta is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  During August 2015, DISH Network L.L.C. filed petitions before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 456 patent, and in February 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions.  On February 25, 2016, the case was stayed pending resolution of these proceedings before the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and the Court vacated all pending court dates and deadlines.  On January 30, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued its final written decisions on our petitions, invalidating all claims of the 456 patent that were asserted in the litigation.  On April 3, 2017, TQ Beta filed a notice of appeal.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

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(Unaudited)

TQ Delta, LLC

On July 17, 2015, TQ Delta, LLC (“TQ Delta”) filed a complaint against us and our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH DBS Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware.  The Complaint alleges infringement of United States Patent No. 6,961,369 (the “369 patent”), which is entitled “System and Method for Scrambling the Phase of the Carriers in a Multicarrier Communications System”; United States Patent No. 8,718,158 (the “158 patent”), which is entitled “System and Method for Scrambling the Phase of the Carriers in a Multicarrier Communications System”; United States Patent No. 9,014,243 (the “243 patent”), which is entitled “System and Method for Scrambling Using a Bit Scrambler and a Phase Scrambler”; United States Patent No.7,835,430 (the “430 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Modulation Messaging for Frequency Domain Received Idle Channel Noise Information”; United States Patent No. 8,238,412 (the “412 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Modulation Messaging for Power Level per Subchannel Information”; United States Patent No. 8,432,956 (the “956 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Modulation Messaging for Power Level per Subchannel Information”; and United States Patent No. 8,611,404 (the “404 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Transmission System with Low Power Sleep Mode and Rapid-On Capability.”  On September 9, 2015, TQ Delta filed a first amended complaint that added allegations of infringement of United States Patent No. 9,094,268 (the “268 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Transmission System With Low Power Sleep Mode and Rapid-On Capability.”  On May 16, 2016, TQ Delta filed a second amended complaint that added EchoStar Corporation and its then wholly-owned subsidiary EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. as defendants.  TQ Delta alleges that our satellite TV service, Internet service, set-top boxes, gateways, routers, modems, adapters and networks that operate in accordance with one or more Multimedia over Coax Alliance Standards infringe the asserted patents.  TQ Delta has filed actions in the same court alleging infringement of the same patents against Comcast Corp., Cox Communications, Inc., DirecTV, Time Warner Cable Inc. and Verizon Communications, Inc.  TQ Delta is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  Trial has been set for November 13, 2017.  On July 14, 2016, TQ Delta stipulated to dismiss with prejudice all claims related to the 369 patent and the 956 patent.  On July 20, 2016, we filed petitions with the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of all of the patent claims of the 404 patent and the 268 patent that have been asserted against us.  Third parties have filed petitions with the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of all of the patent claims that have been asserted against us in the action.  On November 4, 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on the third-party petitions related to the 158 patent, the 243 patent, the 412 patent and the 430 patent.  On December 20, 2016, pursuant to a stipulation of the parties, the Court stayed the case until the resolution of all petitions to the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of all of the patent claims at issue.  On January 19, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted our motions to join the instituted petitions on the 430 and 158 patents.  On February 9, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petition related to the 404 patent, and on February 13, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petition related to the 268 patent.  On February 27, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted our motions to join the instituted petitions on the 243 and 412 patents.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

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(Unaudited)

Vermont National Telephone Company

On September 23, 2016, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia unsealed a qui tam complaint that was filed by Vermont National against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries, American AWS-3 Wireless I L.L.C., American II, American III, and DISH Wireless Holding L.L.C.; Charles W. Ergen (our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer) and Cantey M. Ergen (a member of our board of directors); Northstar Wireless; Northstar Spectrum; Northstar Manager; SNR Wireless; SNR HoldCo; SNR Management; and certain other parties.  The complaint was unsealed after the United States Department of Justice notified the Court that it had declined to intervene in the action.  The complaint is a civil action that was filed under seal on May 13, 2015 by Vermont National, which participated in the AWS-3 Auction through its wholly-owned subsidiary, VTel Wireless.  The complaint alleges violations of the federal civil False Claims Act (the “FCA”) based on, among other things, allegations that Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless falsely claimed bidding credits of 25% in the AWS-3 Auction when they were allegedly under the de facto control of DISH Network and, therefore, were not entitled to the bidding credits as designated entities under applicable FCC rules.  Vermont National seeks to recover on behalf of the United States government approximately $10 billion, which reflects the $3.3 billion in bidding credits that Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless claimed in the AWS-3 Auction, trebled under the FCA.  Vermont National also seeks civil penalties of not less than $5,500 and not more than $11,000 for each violation of the FCA.  On March 2, 2017, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia entered a stay of the litigation until such time as the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issues its opinion in SNR Wireless LicenseCo, LLC, et al. v. F.C.C.  See “Commitments – DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses” above for further information.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of this proceeding or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Waste Disposal Inquiry

The California Attorney General and the Alameda County (California) District Attorney are investigating whether certain of our waste disposal policies, procedures and practices are in violation of the California Business and Professions Code and the California Health and Safety Code.  We expect that these entities will seek injunctive and monetary relief.  The investigation appears to be part of a broader effort to investigate waste handling and disposal processes of a number of industries.  While we are unable to predict the outcome of this investigation, we do not believe that the outcome will have a material effect on our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.

Other

In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business, including, among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees.  In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity, though the outcomes could be material to our operating results for any particular period, depending, in part, upon the operating results for such period.

11.Segment Reporting

Operating segments are components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is available and regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision maker(s) of an enterprise.  Operating income is the primary measure used by our chief operating decision maker to evaluate segment operating performance.  We currently operate two primary business segments:  (1) Pay-TV and Broadband and (2) Wireless.  See Note 1 for further information.

All other and eliminations primarily include intersegment eliminations related to intercompany debt and the related interest income and interest expense, which are eliminated in consolidation.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

The total assets, revenue and operating income by segment were as follows:

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Total assets:
Pay-TV and Broadband	$	28,641,709	$	26,980,276
Wireless (1)		22,996,599		17,814,382
Eliminations		(21,720,749)		(16,880,366)
Total assets	$	29,917,559	$	27,914,292

(1)  The increase as of June 30, 2017 was primarily related to the $4.711 billion payment to the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  See Note 10 for further information. 

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
		(In thousands)
Revenue:
Pay-TV and Broadband	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065
Wireless		—		—		—		—
Eliminations		—		—		—		—
Total revenue	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065
Operating income (loss):
Pay-TV and Broadband (1)	$	262,919	$	655,419	$	884,584	$	1,256,696
Wireless		(10,816)		(15,137)		(25,161)		(32,996)
Eliminations		—		—		—		—
Total operating income (loss)	$	252,103	$	640,282	$	859,423	$	1,223,700

(1) The decrease for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, respectively, primarily related to $296 million of “Litigation Expense.”  See Note 10 for further information.

Geographic Information.  Revenue is attributed to geographic regions based upon the location where the goods and services are provided.  All subscriber-related revenue was derived from the United States.  Substantially all of our long-lived assets reside in the United States.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

The following table summarizes revenue by geographic region:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
Revenue:	2017		2016		2017		2016
		(In thousands)
United States	$	3,632,203	$	3,841,120	$	7,302,967	$	7,632,406
Canada and Mexico		11,429		23,471		21,026		59,659
Total revenue	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065

12.Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions with EchoStar

Following the Spin-off, we and EchoStar have operated as separate publicly-traded companies and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other.  However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

In connection with and following the Spin-off, we and EchoStar have entered into certain agreements pursuant to which we obtain certain products, services and rights from EchoStar, EchoStar obtains certain products, services and rights from us, and we and EchoStar have indemnified each other against certain liabilities arising from our respective businesses.  In connection with the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar and certain of their subsidiaries entered into certain agreements covering, among other things, tax matters, employee matters, intellectual property matters and the provision of transitional services.  In addition, certain agreements that we had with EchoStar have terminated, and we entered into certain new agreements with EchoStar.  As the Share Exchange was a transaction between entities that are under common control, accounting rules require that our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of the Transferred Businesses for all periods presented, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange. Intercompany transactions between the Transferred Businesses and us, including, among others, the sale of set-top boxes and broadcast services from EchoStar to us, have been eliminated to the extent possible, including the margin EchoStar received on those sales.  See Note 2 for further information.  We also may enter into additional agreements with EchoStar in the future.  The following is a summary of the terms of our principal agreements with EchoStar that may have an impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

“Trade accounts receivable”

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, trade accounts receivable from EchoStar was $1 million and $2 million, respectively.  These amounts are recorded in “Trade accounts receivable” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

“Trade accounts payable”

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, trade accounts payable to EchoStar was $90 million and $276 million, respectively.  These amounts are recorded in “Trade accounts payable” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

“Equipment sales and other revenue”

During each of the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we received $1 million for services provided to EchoStar.  During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we received $1 million and $2 million, respectively, for services provided to EchoStar.  These amounts are recorded in “Equipment sales and other revenue” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these revenues are discussed below.

Real Estate Lease Agreements.  We have entered into lease agreements pursuant to which we lease certain real estate to EchoStar.  The rent on a per square foot basis for each of the leases is comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic areas, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.  The term of each lease is set forth below:

· El Paso Lease Agreement.  During 2012, we began leasing certain space at 1285 Joe Battle Blvd., El Paso, Texas to EchoStar for an initial period ending on August 1, 2015, which also provides EchoStar with renewal options for four consecutive three-year terms.  During the second quarter 2015, EchoStar exercised its first renewal option for a period ending on August 1, 2018.

· 90 Inverness Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, EchoStar leases certain space from us at 90 Inverness Circle East, Englewood, Colorado for a period ending in December 2022.  EchoStar has the option to renew this lease for four three-year periods.

· Cheyenne Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, EchoStar leases certain space from us at 530 EchoStar Drive, Cheyenne, Wyoming for a period ending in March 2019.  EchoStar has the option to renew this lease for thirteen one-year periods.

· Gilbert Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, EchoStar leases certain space from us at 801 N. DISH Dr., Gilbert, Arizona for a period ending in March 2019.  EchoStar has the option to renew this lease for thirteen one-year periods.

· American Fork Occupancy License Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we acquired the lease for certain space at 796 East Utah Valley Drive, American Fork, Utah, and we sublease certain space at this location to EchoStar for a period ending in August 2017.  During June 2017, EchoStar exercised its five-year renewal option for a period ending in August 2022.

Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we entered into certain agreements pursuant to which we will provide certain collocation and antenna space to EchoStar through March 2022 at the following locations: Cheyenne, Wyoming; Gilbert, Arizona; New Braunfels, Texas; Monee, Illinois; and Englewood, Colorado.  EchoStar may terminate any of these agreements with 180 days’ prior written notice to us.  The fees for the services provided under these agreements depend, among other things, on the number of racks leased and/or antennas present at the location.

“Subscriber-related expenses”

During the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $22 million and $23 million, respectively, of subscriber-related expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $41 million and $47 million, respectively, of subscriber-related expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  These amounts are recorded in “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these expenses are discussed below.

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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement.  Effective October 1, 2012, dishNET Satellite Broadband L.L.C. (“dishNET Satellite Broadband”), our indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, and HNS entered into a Distribution Agreement (the “Distribution Agreement”) pursuant to which dishNET Satellite Broadband has the right, but not the obligation, to market, sell and distribute the HNS satellite Internet service (the “Service”).  dishNET Satellite Broadband pays HNS a monthly per subscriber wholesale service fee for the Service based upon the subscriber’s service level, and, beginning January 1, 2014, certain volume subscription thresholds.  The Distribution Agreement also provides that dishNET Satellite Broadband has the right, but not the obligation, to purchase certain broadband equipment from HNS to support the sale of the Service.  On February 20, 2014, dishNET Satellite Broadband and HNS amended the Distribution Agreement which, among other things, extended the initial term of the Distribution Agreement through March 1, 2024.  Thereafter, the Distribution Agreement automatically renews for successive one year terms unless either party gives written notice of its intent not to renew to the other party at least 180 days before the expiration of the then-current term.  Upon expiration or termination of the Distribution Agreement, the parties will continue to provide the Service to the then-current dishNET subscribers pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Distribution Agreement. 

For the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, under the Distribution Agreement we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of zero and $2 million, respectively.  For the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, under the Distribution Agreement we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of zero and $5 million, respectively.  These amounts are initially included in “Inventory” and are subsequently capitalized as “Property and equipment, net” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets or expensed as “Subscriber acquisition costs” or “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) when the equipment is deployed.  During the first quarter 2017, we decided to transition our wholesale arrangement with Hughes under the Distribution Agreement to an authorized representative arrangement and entered into the MSA with HNS.  See “Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement” below for further information.

“Satellite and transmission expenses”

For the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred expenses of $89 million and $88 million, respectively, for satellite capacity leased from EchoStar and telemetry, tracking and control and other professional services provided to us by EchoStar.  For each of the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred expenses of $178 million for satellite capacity leased from EchoStar and telemetry, tracking and control and other professional services provided to us by EchoStar.  EchoStar is a supplier of the vast majority of our transponder capacity.  These amounts are recorded in “Satellite and transmission expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these expenses are discussed below.

Satellite Capacity Leased from EchoStar. We have entered into certain satellite capacity agreements pursuant to which we lease certain capacity on certain satellites owned or leased by EchoStar.  The fees for the services provided under these satellite capacity agreements depend, among other things, upon the orbital location of the applicable satellite, the number of transponders that are leased on the applicable satellite and the length of the lease.  See “Pay-TV Satellites” in Note 8 for further information.  The term of each lease is set forth below:

· EchoStar VII, X, XI and XIV.  On March 1, 2014, we began leasing all available capacity from EchoStar on the EchoStar VII, X, XI and XIV satellites.  The term of each satellite capacity agreement generally terminates upon the earlier of:  (i) the end-of-life of the satellite; (ii) the date the satellite fails; or (iii) a certain date, which depends upon, among other things, the estimated useful life of the satellite.  We generally have the option to renew each satellite capacity agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of the respective satellite’s life.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew such agreements will be exercised. 

· EchoStar IX.  We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX.  Subject to availability, we generally have the right to continue to lease satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX on a month-to-month basis.

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DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

· EchoStar XII.  The lease for EchoStar XII generally terminates upon the earlier of:  (i) the end-of-life or replacement of the satellite (unless we determine to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponders on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends upon, among other things, the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service and the exercise of certain renewal options.  This lease expires in September 2017.

· EchoStar XVI.  In December 2009, we entered into a transponder service agreement with EchoStar to lease all of the capacity on EchoStar XVI, a DBS satellite, after its service commencement date.  EchoStar XVI was launched in November 2012 to replace EchoStar XV at the 61.5 degree orbital location and is currently in service.  Effective December 21, 2012, we and EchoStar amended the transponder service agreement to, among other things, change the initial term to generally expire upon the earlier of:  (i) the end-of-life or replacement of the satellite; (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder(s) on which service is being provided under the agreement fails; or (iv) four years following the actual service commencement date.  In July 2016, we and EchoStar amended the transponder service agreement to, among other things, extend the initial term by one additional year and to reduce the term of the first renewal option by one year.  Prior to expiration of the initial term, we had the option to renew for an additional five-year period.  During May 2017, we exercised our first renewal option for an additional five-year period ending in January 2023.  We also have the option to renew for an additional five-year period prior to expiration of the first renewal period in January 2023.  There can be no assurance that the option to renew this agreement will be exercised.

Nimiq 5 Agreement.  During 2009, EchoStar entered into a fifteen-year satellite service agreement with Telesat Canada (“Telesat”) to receive service on all 32 DBS transponders on the Nimiq 5 satellite at the 72.7 degree orbital location (the “Telesat Transponder Agreement”).  During 2009, EchoStar also entered into a satellite service agreement (the “DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement”) with us, pursuant to which we currently receive service from EchoStar on all 32 of the DBS transponders covered by the Telesat Transponder Agreement.  We have also guaranteed certain obligations of EchoStar under the Telesat Transponder Agreement.  See discussion under “Guarantees” in Note 10.

Under the terms of the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement, we make certain monthly payments to EchoStar that commenced in September 2009 when the Nimiq 5 satellite was placed into service and continue through the service term.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the date the Nimiq 5 satellite was placed into service.  Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end-of-life of the Nimiq 5 satellite.  Upon in‑orbit failure or end-of-life of the Nimiq 5 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement.  During 2008, EchoStar entered into a ten-year satellite service agreement with SES Latin America S.A. (“SES”), which provides, among other things, for the provision by SES to EchoStar of service on 32 DBS transponders on the QuetzSat-1 satellite.  During 2008, EchoStar also entered into a transponder service agreement (“QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement”) with us pursuant to which we receive service from EchoStar on 24 DBS transponders.  QuetzSat-1 was launched on September 29, 2011 and was placed into service during the fourth quarter 2011 at the 67.1 degree orbital location while we and EchoStar explored alternative uses for the QuetzSat-1 satellite.  In the interim, EchoStar provided us with alternate capacity at the 77 degree orbital location.  During the first quarter 2013, we and EchoStar entered into an agreement pursuant to which we sublease five DBS transponders back to EchoStar.  In January 2013, QuetzSat-1 was moved to the 77 degree orbital location and we commenced commercial operations at that location in February 2013.

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DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, the initial service term will expire in November 2021.  Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end-of-life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite.  Upon an in-orbit failure or end-of-life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

103 Degree Orbital Location/SES-3.  In May 2012, EchoStar entered into a spectrum development agreement (the “103 Spectrum Development Agreement”) with Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc. (“Ciel”) to develop certain spectrum rights at the 103 degree orbital location (the “103 Spectrum Rights”).  In June 2013, we and EchoStar entered into a spectrum development agreement (the “DISH 103 Spectrum Development Agreement”) pursuant to which we may use and develop the 103 Spectrum Rights.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH 103 Spectrum Development Agreement, the term generally will continue for the duration of the 103 Spectrum Rights.

In connection with the 103 Spectrum Development Agreement, in May 2012, EchoStar also entered into a ten-year service agreement with Ciel pursuant to which EchoStar leases certain satellite capacity from Ciel on the SES-3 satellite at the 103 degree orbital location (the “103 Service Agreement”).  In June 2013, we and EchoStar entered into an agreement pursuant to which we lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on the SES-3 satellite (the “DISH 103 Service Agreement”).  Under the terms of the DISH 103 Service Agreement, we make certain monthly payments to EchoStar through the service term.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH 103 Service Agreement, the initial service term will expire on the earlier of:  (i) the date the SES-3 satellite fails; (ii) the date the transponder(s) on which service was being provided under the agreement fails; or (iii) ten years following the actual service commencement date.  Upon in-orbit failure or end of life of the SES-3 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

TT&C Agreement.  Effective January 1, 2012, we entered into a telemetry, tracking and control (“TT&C”) agreement pursuant to which we receive TT&C services from EchoStar for certain satellites for a period ending on December 31, 2016 (the “2012 TT&C Agreement”).  In November 2016, we and EchoStar amended the 2012 TT&C Agreement to extend the term thereof for one additional year until December 31, 2017.  The fees for services provided under the 2012 TT&C Agreement are calculated at either:  (i) a fixed fee; or (ii) cost plus a fixed margin, which will vary depending on the nature of the services provided.  We are able to terminate the 2012 TT&C Agreement for any reason upon 60 days notice.

DBSD North America Agreement.  On March 9, 2012, we completed the DBSD Transaction.  During the second quarter 2011, EchoStar acquired Hughes.  Prior to our acquisition of DBSD North America and EchoStar’s acquisition of Hughes, DBSD North America and HNS entered into an agreement pursuant to which HNS provides, among other things, hosting, operations and maintenance services for DBSD North America’s satellite gateway and associated ground infrastructure.  This agreement generally may be terminated by us at any time for convenience.

TerreStar Agreement.  On March 9, 2012, we completed the TerreStar Transaction.  Prior to our acquisition of substantially all the assets of TerreStar and EchoStar’s acquisition of Hughes, TerreStar and HNS entered into various agreements pursuant to which HNS provides, among other things, hosting, operations and maintenance services for TerreStar’s satellite gateway and associated ground infrastructure.  These agreements generally may be terminated by us at any time for convenience.

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DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

“General and administrative expenses”

During the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $12 million and $4 million, respectively, of general and administrative expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $15 million and $8 million, respectively, of general and administrative expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  These amounts are recorded in “General and administrative expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these expenses are discussed below.

Real Estate Lease Agreements.  We have entered into lease agreements pursuant to which we lease certain real estate from EchoStar.  The rent on a per square foot basis for each of the leases is comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.  The term of each lease is set forth below:

· Meridian Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 9601 S. Meridian Blvd. in Englewood, Colorado is for a period ending on December 31, 2016.  In December 2016, we and EchoStar amended this lease to, among other things, extend the term thereof for one additional year until December 31, 2017.

· Santa Fe Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 5701 S. Santa Fe Dr. in Littleton, Colorado was for a period ending on December 31, 2016.  In December 2016, we and EchoStar amended this lease to, among other things, extend the term thereof for one additional year until December 31, 2017.

· Cheyenne Lease Agreement.    The lease for certain space at 530 EchoStar Drive in Cheyenne, Wyoming is for a period ending on December 31, 2031.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, EchoStar transferred ownership of a portion of this property to us, and, effective March 1, 2017, we and EchoStar amended this lease agreement to (i) terminate the lease of certain space at the portion of the property that was transferred to us and (ii) provide for the continued lease to us of certain space at the portion of the property that EchoStar retained.

· 100 Inverness Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we lease certain space from EchoStar at 100 Inverness Circle East, Englewood, Colorado for a period ending in December 2020.  This agreement may be terminated by either party upon 180 days’ prior notice. 

Professional Services Agreement.  Prior to 2010, in connection with the Spin-off, we entered into various agreements with EchoStar including the Transition Services Agreement, Satellite Procurement Agreement and Services Agreement, which all expired on January 1, 2010 and were replaced by a Professional Services Agreement.  During 2009, we and EchoStar agreed that EchoStar shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to receive the following services from us, among others, certain of which were previously provided under the Transition Services Agreement:  information technology, travel and event coordination, internal audit, legal, accounting and tax, benefits administration, program acquisition services and other support services.  Additionally, we and EchoStar agreed that we shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to engage EchoStar to manage the process of procuring new satellite capacity for us (previously provided under the Satellite Procurement Agreement) and receive logistics, procurement and quality assurance services from EchoStar (previously provided under the Services Agreement) and other support services.  The Professional Services Agreement renewed on January 1, 2017 for an additional one-year period until January 1, 2018 and renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier by either party upon at least 60 days notice.  However, either party may terminate the Professional Services Agreement in part with respect to any particular service it receives for any reason upon at least 30 days notice.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, DISH Network and EchoStar amended the Professional Services Agreement to, among other things, provide certain transition services to each other related to the Share Exchange Agreement. 

50

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Revenue for services provided by us to EchoStar under the Professional Services Agreement is recorded in “Equipment sales and other revenue” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Other Agreements - EchoStar

Tax Sharing Agreement.  In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a tax sharing agreement with EchoStar which governs our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations after the Spin-off with respect to taxes for the periods ending on or before the Spin-off.  Generally, all pre-Spin-off taxes, including any taxes that are incurred as a result of restructuring activities undertaken to implement the Spin-off, are borne by us, and we will indemnify EchoStar for such taxes.  However, we are not liable for and will not indemnify EchoStar for any taxes that are incurred as a result of the Spin-off or certain related transactions failing to qualify as tax-free distributions pursuant to any provision of Section 355 or Section 361 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) because of:  (i) a direct or indirect acquisition of any of EchoStar’s stock, stock options or assets; (ii) any action that EchoStar takes or fails to take; or (iii) any action that EchoStar takes that is inconsistent with the information and representations furnished to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) in connection with the request for the private letter ruling, or to counsel in connection with any opinion being delivered by counsel with respect to the Spin-off or certain related transactions.  In such case, EchoStar is solely liable for, and will indemnify us for, any resulting taxes, as well as any losses, claims and expenses.  The tax sharing agreement will only terminate after the later of the full period of all applicable statutes of limitations, including extensions, or once all rights and obligations are fully effectuated or performed.

We and EchoStar file combined income tax returns in certain states.  In 2015 and 2014, EchoStar earned and recognized a tax benefit for certain state income tax credits that EchoStar estimates it would be unable to utilize in the future if it had filed separately from us.  In addition, EchoStar earned and recognized tax benefits for certain federal income tax credits, a portion of which were allocated to us under IRS rules for affiliated companies.  We expect to utilize these tax credits to reduce our federal and state income tax payable in the future.  In accordance with accounting rules that apply to transfers of assets between entities under common control, we recorded a capital contribution of less than $1 million in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets for the year ended December 31, 2016 representing the amount that we estimate is more likely than not to be realized by us as a result of our utilization of these tax credits earned.  Any payments made to EchoStar related to the utilization of these credits will be recorded as a reduction to “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Tax Matters Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar entered into a Tax Matters Agreement, which governs certain rights, responsibilities and obligations with respect to taxes of the Transferred Businesses pursuant to the Share Exchange.  Generally, EchoStar is responsible for all tax returns and tax liabilities for the Transferred Businesses for periods prior to the Share Exchange, and we are responsible for all tax returns and tax liabilities for the Transferred Businesses from and after the Share Exchange.  Both we and EchoStar have made certain tax-related representations and are subject to various tax-related covenants after the consummation of the Share Exchange.  Both we and EchoStar have agreed to indemnify each other if there is a breach of any such tax representation or violation of any such tax covenant and that breach or violation results in the Share Exchange not qualifying for tax free treatment for the other party.  In addition, we have agreed to indemnify EchoStar if the Transferred Businesses are acquired, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via an acquisition of us), by one or more persons and such acquisition results in the Share Exchange not qualifying for tax free treatment.  The Tax Matters Agreement supplements the Tax Sharing Agreement described above, which continues in full force and effect.

51

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

TiVo.  On April 29, 2011, we and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo Inc. (“TiVo”).  The settlement resolved all pending litigation between us and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH digital video recorders, or DVRs.  Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation was dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by us or EchoStar were dissolved.  We and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017.  Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from us, we made the initial payment to TiVo in May 2011, except for the contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar’s sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer.  Future payments were allocated between us and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with us being responsible for 95% of each annual payment.  Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, we were responsible for EchoStar’s allocation of the final payment to TiVo, which was paid July 31, 2017.

Patent Cross-License Agreements.  In December 2011, we and EchoStar entered into separate patent cross-license agreements with the same third party whereby:  (i) EchoStar and such third-party licensed their respective patents to each other subject to certain conditions; and (ii) we and such third-party licensed our respective patents to each other subject to certain conditions (each, a “Cross-License Agreement”).  Each Cross License Agreement covers patents acquired by the respective party prior to January 1, 2017 and aggregate payments under both Cross-License Agreements total less than $10 million.  Each Cross License Agreement also contains an option to extend each Cross-License Agreement to include patents acquired by the respective party prior to January 1, 2022.  In December 2016, we and EchoStar independently exercised our respective options to extend each Cross-License Agreement.  The aggregate additional payments to such third-party was less than $3 million.  Since the aggregate payments under both Cross-License Agreements were based on the combined annual revenues of us and EchoStar, we and EchoStar agreed to allocate our respective payments to such third party based on our respective percentage of combined total revenue.

Rovi License Agreement.  On August 19, 2016, we entered into a ten-year patent license agreement (the “Rovi License Agreement”) with Rovi Corporation (“Rovi”) and, for certain limited purposes, EchoStar.  EchoStar is a party to the Rovi License Agreement solely with respect to certain provisions relating to the prior patent license agreement between EchoStar and Rovi.  There are no payments between us and EchoStar under the Rovi License Agreement.

Sale of Orange, New Jersey Properties. In October 2016, we and EchoStar sold two parcels of real estate owned separately by us and EchoStar in Orange, New Jersey to a third party pursuant to a purchase and sale agreement. Pursuant to the agreement, we and EchoStar separately received our respective payments from the buyer.

Invidi.   In November 2010 and April 2011, EchoStar made investments in Invidi in exchange for shares of Invidi’s Series D Preferred Stock.  In November 2016, we, DIRECTV, LLC, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of AT&T Inc., and Cavendish Square Holding B.V., an affiliate of WPP plc, entered into a series of agreements to acquire Invidi.  As a result of the transaction, EchoStar sold its ownership interest in Invidi on the same terms offered to the other shareholders of Invidi.  The transaction closed in January 2017.

52

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement.   During March 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. (“DNLLC”) and HNS entered into the MSA pursuant to which DNLLC, among other things: (i) has the right, but not the obligation, to market, promote and solicit orders for the Hughes broadband satellite service and related equipment; and (ii) installs Hughes service equipment with respect to activations generated by DNLLC.  Under the MSA, HNS will make certain payments to DNLLC for each Hughes service activation generated, and installation performed, by DNLLC.  Payments from HNS for services provided are recorded in “Subscriber-related revenue” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The MSA has an initial term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms.  After the first anniversary of the MSA, either party has the ability to terminate the MSA, in whole or in part, for any reason upon at least 90 days’ notice to the other party.  Upon expiration or termination of the MSA, HNS will continue to provide the Hughes service to subscribers and make certain payments to DNLLC pursuant to the terms and conditions of the MSA.  For the three months ended June 30, 2017, we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of $3 million under the MSA.  For the six months ended June 30, 2017, we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of $10 million under the MSA. 

Employee Matters Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we and EchoStar entered into an Employee Matters Agreement that addresses the transfer of employees from EchoStar to us, including certain benefit and compensation matters and the allocation of responsibility for employee-related liabilities relating to current and past employees of the Transferred Businesses.  We assumed employee-related liabilities relating to the Transferred Businesses as part of the Share Exchange, except that EchoStar will be responsible for certain existing employee-related litigation as well as certain pre-Share Exchange compensation and benefits for employees transferring to us in connection with the Share Exchange.

Intellectual Property and Technology License Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we and EchoStar entered into an Intellectual Property and Technology License Agreement (“IPTLA”), pursuant to which we and EchoStar license to each other certain intellectual property and technology.  The IPTLA will continue in perpetuity, unless mutually terminated by the parties.  Pursuant to the IPTLA, EchoStar granted to us a license to its intellectual property and technology for use by us in connection with our continued operation of the Transferred Businesses acquired pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, including a limited license to use the “ECHOSTAR” trademark during a transition period.  EchoStar retains full ownership of the “ECHOSTAR” trademark.  In addition, we granted a license back to EchoStar for the continued use of all intellectual property and technology transferred to us pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement that is used in EchoStar’s retained businesses. 

53

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Related Party Transactions with NagraStar L.L.C.

As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, we own a 50% interest in NagraStar L.L.C. (“NagraStar”), a joint venture that is our primary provider of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only authorized customers have access to our programming.  Certain payments related to NagraStar are recorded in “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  In addition, certain other payments are initially included in “Inventory” and are subsequently capitalized as “Property and equipment, net” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets or expensed as “Subscriber acquisition costs” or “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) when the equipment is deployed.  We record all payables in “Trade accounts payable” or “Other accrued expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Our investment in NagraStar is accounted for using the equity method.

The table below summarizes our transactions with NagraStar:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Purchases (including fees):
Purchases from NagraStar	$	18,652	$	19,997	$	36,431	$	45,494

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Amounts Payable and Commitments:
Amounts payable to NagraStar	$	11,374	$	18,597
Commitments to NagraStar	$	4,917	$	2,716

54

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - Continued

(Unaudited)

Related Party Transactions with Dish Mexico

Dish Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. (“Dish Mexico”) is an entity that provides direct-to-home satellite services in Mexico, which is owned 49.0% by EchoStar.  We provide certain broadcast services and sell hardware such as digital set-top boxes and related components to Dish Mexico, which are recorded in “Equipment sales and other” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). 

The table below summarizes our transactions with Dish Mexico:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Sales:
Digital receivers and related components	$	312	$	10,176	$	1,183	$	32,730
Uplink services	$	975	$	1,016	$	1,998	$	2,025
	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Amounts Receivable:
Amounts receivable from Dish Mexico	$	1,307	$	13,516

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Item 2.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

You should read the following management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes to our financial statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.  This management’s discussion and analysis is intended to help provide an understanding of our financial condition, changes in financial condition and results of our operations and contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.  The forward-looking statements are not historical facts, but rather are based on current expectations, estimates, assumptions and projections about our industry, business and future financial results.  Our actual results could differ materially from the results contemplated by these forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 and this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q under the caption “Item 1A. Risk Factors.”  Furthermore, such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and we expressly disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Overview

Our business strategy is to be the best provider of video services in the United States by providing products with the best technology, outstanding customer service, and great value.  We promote our pay-TV services as providing our subscribers with a better “price-to-value” relationship than those available from other subscription television service providers.

As the pay-TV industry is mature, our strategy has included an increased emphasis on acquiring and retaining higher quality subscribers, even if it means that we will acquire and retain fewer overall subscribers.  We evaluate the quality of subscribers based upon a number of factors, including, among others, profitability.  Our Pay-TV subscriber base has been declining due to, among other things, this strategy.  There can be no assurance that our Pay-TV subscriber base will not continue to decline and that the pace of such decline will not accelerate. 

Our current revenue and profit is primarily derived from providing pay-TV services to our subscribers.  We also generate revenue from broadband services, equipment rental fees and other hardware related fees, including fees for DVRs, fees for broadband equipment, equipment upgrade fees and additional outlet fees from subscribers with receivers with multiple tuners; advertising services; fees earned from our in-home service operations; and sales of digital receivers and related components to third-party pay-TV providers.  Our subscriber-related revenue has been declining due to, among other things, the continuing decline in our Pay-TV subscriber base.  We expect this trend to continue.  Our most significant expenses are subscriber-related expenses, which are primarily related to programming, subscriber acquisition costs and depreciation and amortization.

Financial Highlights

2017 Second Quarter Consolidated Results of Operations and Key Operating Metrics

· Revenue of $3.644 billion

· Pay-TV ARPU of $87.25

· Net income attributable to DISH Network of $40 million and basic and diluted earnings per share of common stock of $0.09.

· Gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations of approximately 444,000

· Pay-TV SAC of $690

· Loss of approximately 196,000 net Pay-TV subscribers

· Pay-TV churn rate of 1.59%

· Loss of approximately 46,000 net broadband subscribers

Consolidated Financial Condition as of June 30, 2017

· Cash, cash equivalents and current marketable investment securities of $2.386 billion

· Total assets of $29.918 billion

· Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations of $17.248 billion

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Business Segments

We currently operate two primary business segments:  (1) Pay-TV and Broadband and (2) Wireless. 

Pay-TV and Broadband

We offer pay-TV services under the DISH® brand and the Sling® brand (collectively “Pay-TV” services).  We had 13.332 million Pay-TV subscribers in the United States as of June 30, 2017 and are the nation’s fourth largest pay-TV provider.  Competition has intensified in recent years as the pay-TV industry has matured.  To differentiate our DISH branded pay-TV service from our competitors, we introduced the Hopper® whole-home DVR during 2012 and have continued to add functionality and simplicity for a more intuitive user experience.  Our Hopper and Joey® whole-home DVR promotes a suite of integrated features and functionality designed to maximize the convenience and ease of watching TV anytime and anywhere.  It also has several innovative features that a consumer can use, at his or her option, to watch and record television programming, through their televisions, Internet-connected tablets, smartphones and computers.  During the first quarter 2016, we made our next generation Hopper, the Hopper 3, available to customers nationwide.  Among other things, the Hopper 3 features 16 tuners, delivers an enhanced 4K Ultra HD experience, and supports up to seven TVs simultaneously.  There can be no assurance that these integrated features and functionality will positively affect our results of operations or our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations. 

We market our Sling TV services primarily to consumers who do not subscribe to traditional satellite and cable pay-TV services.  Our Sling TV services require an Internet connection and are available on multiple streaming-capable devices including TVs, tablets, computers, game consoles and smart phones.  We offer Sling International, Sling Latino and Sling domestic video programming services.  Our Sling domestic service has a single-stream service branded Sling Orange and a multi-stream service branded Sling Blue, which includes, among other things, the ability to stream on up to three devices simultaneously.  All Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are included in our Pay-TV subscriber count.

In addition, we bundle broadband and telephone services with our DISH branded pay-TV services.  As of June 30, 2017, we had 0.509 million broadband subscribers in the United States.  We market our wireline and satellite broadband services under the dishNET™ brand.  Our dishNET satellite broadband service has utilized advanced technology and high-powered satellites launched by Hughes Communications, Inc. (“Hughes”) and ViaSat, Inc. (“ViaSat”) to provide broadband coverage nationwide, primarily targeting rural residents that are underserved, or unserved, by wireline broadband.  During the first quarter 2017, we decided to transition our wholesale arrangement with Hughes to an authorized representative arrangement and entered into a master service agreement (the “MSA”) with Hughes Network Systems, LLC (“HNS”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hughes, pursuant to which we, among other things: (i) have the right, but not the obligation, to market, promote and solicit orders for the Hughes broadband satellite service and related equipment; and (ii) install Hughes service equipment with respect to activations generated by us.  While broadband subscriber activations generated by us under the MSA are not included in our Broadband subscriber count, under the MSA, HNS will make certain payments to us for each Hughes service activation generated and installation performed by us, and we will not have to incur subscriber acquisition costs for these subscribers.  See Note 12 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.  As a result of the MSA with Hughes, we are no longer marketing dishNET satellite broadband services provided on a wholesale basis by Hughes, and our Broadband subscriber count related to the Hughes service will decline through customer attrition.

As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange with EchoStar, described below, we also design, develop and distribute receiver systems and provide digital broadcast operations, including satellite uplinking/downlinking, transmission and other services to third-party pay-TV providers. 

57

Share Exchange Agreement

On February 28, 2017, we and EchoStar and certain of our respective subsidiaries completed the transactions contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”) that was previously entered into on January 31, 2017 (the “Share Exchange”).  Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, among other things, EchoStar transferred to us certain assets and liabilities of the EchoStar technologies and EchoStar broadcasting businesses, consisting primarily of the businesses that design, develop and distribute digital set-top boxes, provide satellite uplinking services and develop and support streaming video technology, as well as certain investments in joint ventures, spectrum licenses, real estate properties and EchoStar’s ten percent non-voting interest in Sling TV Holding L.L.C. (the “Transferred Businesses”), and in exchange, we transferred to EchoStar the 6,290,499 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by EchoStar (the “EchoStar Tracking Stock”) and 81.128 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation, a subsidiary of EchoStar (“HSSC”) (the “HSSC Tracking Stock,” and together with the EchoStar Tracking Stock, collectively, the “Tracking Stock”), that tracked the residential retail satellite broadband business of HNS.  In connection with the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar and certain of their subsidiaries entered into certain agreements covering, among other things, tax matters, employee matters, intellectual property matters and the provision of transitional services.  See Note 12 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

As the Share Exchange was a transaction between entities that are under common control accounting rules require that our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of the Transferred Businesses for all periods presented, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange.  We initially recorded the Transferred Businesses at EchoStar’s historical cost basis.  The difference between the historical cost basis of the Transferred Businesses and the net carrying value of the Tracking Stock is recorded in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The results of the Transferred Businesses were prepared from separate records maintained by EchoStar for the periods prior to March 1, 2017, and may not necessarily be indicative of the conditions that would have existed, or the results of operations, if the Transferred Businesses had been operated on a combined basis with our subsidiaries.  See Note 2 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

The table below includes preliminary unaudited supplemental pro forma information of our quarterly results of operations and certain key metrics as if the results of the Transferred Businesses were included for the year ended December 31, 2016:  

	For the Three Months Ended
Quarterly Pro Forma Information - 2016	March 31		June 30		September 30		December 31
		(In thousands)
Subscriber-related revenue	$	3,775,478	$	3,826,216	$	3,731,528	$	3,700,717
Equipment sales and other revenue		51,996		38,375		35,944		52,048
Total revenue		3,827,474		3,864,591		3,767,472		3,752,765
Subscriber-related expenses		2,230,249		2,249,260		2,225,138		2,208,977
Satellite and transmission expenses		168,581		175,625		179,524		186,989
Cost of sales - equipment and other		40,266		28,245		22,779		42,612
Subscriber acquisition costs		376,393		349,449		402,664		327,986
General and administrative expenses		201,001		182,145		190,707		183,249
Depreciation and amortization		227,566		239,585		223,998		230,053
Total costs and expenses		3,244,056		3,224,309		3,244,810		3,179,866
Operating income (loss)	$	583,418	$	640,282	$	522,662	$	572,899
Pay-TV average subscriber acquisition cost per subscriber (“Pay-TV SAC”)	$	625	$	756	$	620	$	525

58

Wireless

Since 2008, we have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets and made over $10 billion in non-controlling investments in certain entities, for a total of over $21 billion, as described further below.

DISH Network Spectrum 

We have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.  Most recently, the broadcast incentive auction in the 600 MHz frequency range (“Auction 1000”) began on March 29, 2016 and concluded on March 30, 2017.  On April 13, 2017, the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) announced that ParkerB.com Wireless L.L.C. (“ParkerB.com”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network, was the winning bidder for 486 wireless spectrum licenses (the “600 MHz Licenses”) with aggregate winning bids totaling approximately $6.211 billion.  On April 27, 2017, ParkerB.com filed an application with the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  On July 1, 2016, we paid $1.5 billion to the FCC as a deposit for Auction 1000.  On May 11, 2017, we paid the remaining balance of our winning bids of approximately $4.711 billion.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.

We will need to make significant additional investments or partner with others to, among other things, commercialize, build-out, and integrate these licenses and related assets, and any additional acquired licenses and related assets; and comply with regulations applicable to such licenses.  Depending on the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, and regulatory compliance, any such investments or partnerships could vary significantly.  In addition, as we consider our options for the commercialization of our wireless spectrum, we will incur significant additional expenses and will have to make significant investments related to, among other things, research and development, wireless testing and wireless network infrastructure. In March 2017, we notified the FCC that we plan to deploy a next-generation 5G-capable network, focused on supporting narrowband Internet of Things (“IoT”).  The first phase of the network deployment will be completed by March 2020, with subsequent phases to be completed thereafter.  We may also determine that additional wireless spectrum licenses may be required to commercialize our wireless business and to compete with other wireless service providers. 

See Note 10 “Commitments and Contingencies — DISH Network Spectrum” in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

59

DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses

Through our wholly-owned subsidiaries American AWS-3 Wireless II L.L.C. (“American II”) and American AWS-3 Wireless III L.L.C. (“American III”), we have made over $10 billion in certain non-controlling investments in Northstar Spectrum, LLC (“Northstar Spectrum”), the parent company of Northstar Wireless, LLC (“Northstar Wireless,” and collectively with Northstar Spectrum, the “Northstar Entities”), and in SNR Wireless HoldCo, LLC (“SNR HoldCo”), the parent company of SNR Wireless LicenseCo, LLC (“SNR Wireless,” and collectively with SNR HoldCo, the “SNR Entities”), respectively.  On October 27, 2015, the FCC granted certain AWS-3 wireless spectrum licenses (the “AWS-3 Licenses”) to Northstar Wireless and to SNR Wireless, respectively, which are recorded in “FCC authorizations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in Accounting Standards Codification 810, Consolidation (“ASC 810”), Northstar Spectrum and SNR HoldCo are considered variable interest entities and, based on the characteristics of the structure of these entities and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate these entities into our financial statements.  See Note 2 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.  The AWS-3 Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  We may need to make significant additional loans to the Northstar Entities and to the SNR Entities, or they may need to partner with others, so that the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities may commercialize, build-out and integrate these AWS-3 Licenses, comply with regulations applicable to such AWS-3 Licenses, and make any potential payments related to the re-auction of AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC.  Depending upon the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, regulatory compliance, and potential re-auction payments, any such loans or partnerships could vary significantly.  See Note 10 “Commitments and Contingencies — DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses” in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information. 

We may need to raise significant additional capital in the future to fund the efforts described above, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all.  There can be no assurance that we, the Northstar Entities and/or the SNR Entities will be able to develop and implement business models that will realize a return on these wireless spectrum licenses or that we, the Northstar Entities and/or the SNR Entities will be able to profitably deploy the assets represented by these wireless spectrum licenses, which may affect the carrying amount of these assets and our future financial condition or results of operations.  See Note 10 “Commitments and Contingencies” in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Trends in our Pay-TV and Broadband Segment

Competition

Competition has intensified in recent years as the pay-TV industry has matured.  With respect to our DISH branded pay‑TV services, we and our competitors increasingly must seek to attract a greater proportion of new subscribers from each other’s existing subscriber bases rather than from first-time purchasers of pay-TV services.  We incur significant costs to retain our existing DISH branded pay-TV customers, mostly as a result of upgrading their equipment to HD and DVR receivers and by providing retention credits.  Our subscriber retention costs may vary significantly from period to period. 

Many of our competitors have been especially aggressive by offering discounted programming and services for both new and existing subscribers, including bundled offers combining broadband, video and/or wireless services and other promotional offers.  Certain competitors have been able to subsidize the price of video services with the price of broadband and/or wireless services.  In addition, our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations and net Pay-TV subscriber additions continue to be negatively impacted by stricter customer acquisition and retention policies for our DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, including an increased emphasis on acquiring and retaining higher quality subscribers.

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Our Pay-TV services also face increased competition from programmers and other companies who distribute video directly to consumers over the Internet.  Programming offered over the Internet has become more prevalent and consumers are spending an increasing amount of time accessing video content via the Internet on their mobile devices.  Significant changes in consumer behavior with regard to the means by which consumers obtain video entertainment and information in response to digital media competition could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition or otherwise disrupt our business.  In particular, consumers have shown increased interest in viewing certain video programming in any place, at any time and/or on any broadband-connected device they choose.  Online content providers may cause our subscribers to disconnect our services (“cord cutting”), downgrade to smaller, less expensive programming packages (“cord shaving”) or elect to purchase through these online content providers a certain portion of the services that they would have historically purchased from us, such as pay per view movies, resulting in less revenue to us.

We implement new marketing promotions from time to time that are intended to increase our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations.  For example, we have launched various marketing promotions offering certain DISH branded pay-TV programming packages without a price increase for a limited time period.  We also launched our Flex Pack skinny bundle with a core package of programming consisting of more than 50 channels and the choice of one of eight themed add-on channel packs, which include, among others, local broadcast networks and kids and general entertainment programming.  Subscribers can also add or remove additional channel packs to best suit their entertainment needs.  During 2017, we launched “Tuned In To You” and the accompanying “Spokeslistener” campaign.  While we plan to implement these and other new marketing efforts, there can be no assurance that we will ultimately be successful in increasing our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations.  Additionally, in response to our efforts, we may face increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing and retention efforts, bundled discount offers combining broadband, video and/or wireless services and other discounted promotional offers.

Our Pay-TV subscriber base has been declining due to, among other things, the factors described above.  There can be no assurance that our Pay-TV subscriber base will not continue to decline and that the pace of such decline will not accelerate.  In the event that our Pay-TV subscriber base continues to decline, it could have a material adverse long-term effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and cash flow.

Programming

Our ability to compete successfully will depend, among other things, on our ability to continue to obtain desirable programming and deliver it to our subscribers at competitive prices.  Programming costs represent a large percentage of our “Subscriber-related expenses” and the largest component of our total expense.  We expect these costs to continue to increase, and certain programming costs are rising at a much faster rate than wages or inflation, especially for local broadcast channels.  The rates we are charged for retransmitting local broadcast channels have been increasing substantially and may exceed our ability to increase our prices to our customers.  In addition, programming costs continue to increase due to contractual price increases and the renewal of long-term programming contracts on less favorable pricing terms.  Going forward, our margins may face pressure if we are unable to renew our long-term programming contracts on acceptable pricing and other economic terms or if we are unable to pass these increased programming costs on to our customers.

Increases in programming costs generally cause us to increase the rates that we charge to our subscribers, which could in turn cause our existing Pay-TV subscribers to disconnect our service or cause potential new Pay-TV subscribers to choose not to subscribe to our service.  Additionally, even if our subscribers do not disconnect our services, they may purchase through new and existing online content providers a certain portion of the services that they would have historically purchased from us, such as pay-per-view movies, resulting in less revenue to us.

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Furthermore, our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, net Pay-TV subscriber additions and Pay-TV churn rate may be negatively impacted if we are unable to renew our long-term programming carriage contracts before they expire.  In the past, our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, net Pay-TV subscriber additions and Pay-TV churn rate have been negatively impacted as a result of programming interruptions and threatened programming interruptions in connection with the scheduled expiration of programming carriage contracts with content providers.  We cannot predict with any certainty the impact to our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, net Pay-TV subscriber additions and Pay-TV churn rate resulting from programming interruptions or threatened programming interruptions that may occur in the future.  As a result, we may at times suffer from periods of lower gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, lower net Pay-TV subscriber additions or higher net Pay-TV subscriber losses, and higher Pay-TV churn rates.

Operations and Customer Service

While competitive factors have impacted the entire pay-TV industry, our relative performance has also been driven by issues specific to us.  In the past, our subscriber growth has been adversely affected by signal theft and other forms of fraud and by our operational inefficiencies.  To combat signal theft and improve the security of our broadcast system, we use microchips embedded in credit card sized access cards, called “smart cards,” or security chips in our DBS receiver systems to control access to authorized programming content (“Security Access Devices”).  We expect that future replacements of these devices may be necessary to keep our system secure.  To combat other forms of fraud, among other things, we monitor our independent third-party distributors’ and independent third-party retailers’ adherence to our business rules.

While we have made improvements in responding to and dealing with customer service issues, we continue to focus on the prevention of these issues, which is critical to our business, financial condition and results of operations.  To improve our operational performance, we continue to make investments in staffing, training, information systems, and other initiatives, primarily in our call center and in-home service operations.  These investments are intended to help combat inefficiencies introduced by the increasing complexity of our business, improve customer satisfaction, reduce churn, increase productivity, and allow us to scale better over the long run.  We cannot be certain, however, that our spending will ultimately be successful in improving our operational performance.

Changes in our Technology

We have been deploying DBS receivers that utilize 8PSK modulation technology with MPEG-4 compression technology for several years.  These technologies, when fully deployed, will allow improved broadcast efficiency, and therefore allow increased programming capacity.  Many of our customers today, however, do not have DBS receivers that use MPEG-4 compression technology.  In addition, given that all of our HD content is broadcast in MPEG-4, any growth in HD penetration will naturally accelerate our transition to these newer technologies and may increase our subscriber acquisition and retention costs.  All new DBS receivers have MPEG-4 compression with 8PSK modulation technology. 

In addition, from time to time, we change equipment for certain subscribers to make more efficient use of transponder capacity in support of HD and other initiatives.  We believe that the benefit from the increase in available transponder capacity outweighs the short-term cost of these equipment changes.

EXPLANATION OF KEY METRICS AND OTHER ITEMS

Subscriber-related revenue.  “Subscriber-related revenue” consists principally of revenue from basic, premium movie, local, HD programming, pay-per-view, Latino and international subscriptions; broadband services; equipment rental fees and other hardware related fees, including fees for DVRs, fees for broadband equipment, equipment upgrade fees and additional outlet fees; advertising services; fees earned from our in-home service operations and other subscriber revenue.  Certain of the amounts included in “Subscriber-related revenue” are not recurring on a monthly basis.

Equipment sales and other revenue.  “Equipment sales and other revenue” principally includes the non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories to independent third-party retailers and other independent third-party distributors of our equipment, sales of digital receivers and related components to third-party pay-TV providers and revenue from services and other agreements with EchoStar.

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Subscriber-related expenses.  “Subscriber-related expenses” principally include programming expenses, which represent a substantial majority of these expenses.  “Subscriber-related expenses” also include costs for Pay-TV and broadband services incurred in connection with our in-home service and call center operations, billing costs, refurbishment and repair costs related to DBS receiver systems and broadband equipment, subscriber retention, other variable subscriber expenses and monthly wholesale fees paid to broadband providers.

Satellite and transmission expenses.  “Satellite and transmission expenses” includes the cost of leasing satellite and transponder capacity from EchoStar and the cost of telemetry, tracking and control and other professional services provided to us by EchoStar.  “Satellite and transmission expenses” also includes the cost of digital broadcast operations, executory costs associated with capital leases and costs associated with transponder leases and other related services.  In addition, “Satellite and transmission expenses” includes costs associated with our Sling TV services including, among other things, streaming delivery technology and infrastructure.

Cost of sales - equipment and other.  “Cost of sales - equipment and other” primarily includes the cost of non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories to independent third-party retailers and other independent third-party distributors of our equipment, costs associated with sales of digital receivers and related components to third-party pay-TV providers and costs related to services and other agreements with EchoStar.

Subscriber acquisition costs.  While we primarily lease DBS receiver systems and broadband modem equipment, we also subsidize certain costs to attract new subscribers.  Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” include the cost of subsidized sales of DBS receiver systems to independent third-party retailers and other independent third-party distributors of our equipment, the cost of subsidized sales of DBS receiver systems directly by us to subscribers, including net costs related to our promotional incentives, costs related to our direct sales efforts and costs related to installation and acquisition advertising.  Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” also includes costs associated with acquiring Sling branded pay-TV subscribers including, among other things, costs related to acquisition advertising, our direct sales efforts and commissions.

Pay-TV SAC.  Subscriber acquisition cost measures are commonly used by those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry.  We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating the “average subscriber acquisition costs per new Pay-TV subscriber activation,” or Pay-TV SAC, and we believe presentations of Pay-TV SAC may not be calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses.  Our Pay-TV SAC is calculated as “Subscriber acquisition costs,” excluding “Subscriber acquisition costs” associated with our broadband services, plus the value of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, divided by gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations.  We include all the costs of acquiring Pay-TV subscribers (e.g., subsidized and capitalized equipment) as we believe it is a more comprehensive measure of how much we are spending to acquire subscribers.  We also include all new Pay-TV subscribers in our calculation, including Pay-TV subscribers added with little or no subscriber acquisition costs.  Subscriber acquisition costs for Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are significantly lower than those for DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, and therefore, as Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations increase, it will have a positive impact on Pay-TV SAC.

General and administrative expenses.  “General and administrative expenses” consists primarily of employee-related costs associated with administrative services such as legal, information systems and accounting and finance.  It also includes outside professional fees (e.g., legal, information systems and accounting services) and other items associated with facilities and administration.

Litigation expense.    “Litigation expense” primarily consists of certain significant legal settlements, judgments or accruals.

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.  “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” primarily includes interest expense (net of capitalized interest), prepayment premiums, amortization of debt discounts and debt issuance costs associated with our long-term debt, and interest expense associated with our capital lease obligations.  See Note 2 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding our capitalized interest policy.

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Other, net.  The main components of “Other, net” are gains and losses realized on the sale and/or conversion of marketable and non-marketable investment securities and derivative financial instruments, impairment of marketable and non-marketable investment securities, unrealized gains and losses from changes in fair value of derivative financial instruments, and equity in earnings and losses of our affiliates.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”).  EBITDA is defined as “Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network” plus “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” net of “Interest income,” “Income tax (provision) benefit, net” and “Depreciation and amortization.”  This “non-GAAP measure” is reconciled to “Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network” in our discussion of “Results of Operations” below.

Pay-TV subscribers.    We include customers obtained through direct sales, independent third-party retailers and other independent third-party distribution relationships in our Pay-TV subscriber count.  We also provide DISH branded pay-TV service to hotels, motels and other commercial accounts.  For certain of these commercial accounts, we divide our total revenue for these commercial accounts by an amount approximately equal to the retail price of our Flex Pack programming package, and include the resulting number, which is substantially smaller than the actual number of commercial units served, in our Pay-TV subscriber count.  All Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are included in our Pay-TV subscriber count.  Sling branded pay-TV subscribers receiving service for no charge, under certain new subscriber promotions, are excluded from our Pay-TV subscriber count.  Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are reported net of disconnects in our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations.  For customers who subscribe to both our DISH branded pay-TV service and our Sling branded pay-TV services, each subscription is counted as a separate Pay-TV subscriber.

Broadband subscribers.  We include customers who subscribe to either our satellite broadband service or our wireline broadband service under the dishNET brand as Broadband subscribers.  Each broadband customer is counted as one Broadband subscriber, regardless of whether they are also a Pay-TV subscriber.  A subscriber of both our Pay-TV and broadband services is counted as one Pay-TV subscriber and one Broadband subscriber.  Broadband subscriber activations generated by us under the MSA with Hughes are not included in our Broadband subscriber count.

Pay-TV average monthly revenue per subscriber (“Pay-TV ARPU”).  We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating ARPU and believe presentations of ARPU may not be calculated consistently by other companies in the same or similar businesses.  We calculate Pay-TV average monthly revenue per Pay-TV subscriber, or Pay-TV ARPU, by dividing average monthly “Subscriber-related revenue,” excluding revenue from broadband services, for the period by our average number of Pay-TV subscribers for the period.  The average number of Pay-TV subscribers is calculated for the period by adding the average number of Pay-TV subscribers for each month and dividing by the number of months in the period.  The average number of Pay-TV subscribers for each month is calculated by adding the beginning and ending Pay-TV subscribers for the month and dividing by two.  Sling branded pay-TV subscribers on average purchase lower priced programming services than DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, and therefore, as Sling branded pay-TV subscribers increase, it will have a negative impact on Pay-TV ARPU.

Pay-TV average monthly subscriber churn rate (“Pay-TV churn rate”).  We are not aware of any uniform standards for calculating subscriber churn rate and believe presentations of subscriber churn rates may not be calculated consistently by different companies in the same or similar businesses.  We calculate Pay-TV churn rate for any period by dividing the number of DISH branded pay-TV subscribers who terminated service during the period by the average number of Pay-TV subscribers for the same period, and further dividing by the number of months in the period.  When calculating the Pay-TV churn rate, the same methodology for calculating average number of Pay-TV subscribers is used as when calculating Pay-TV ARPU.  As described above, Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are reported net of disconnects in our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations.  Therefore, to the extent that our Sling branded pay-TV subscriber base grows, our Pay-TV churn rate will be positively impacted.

Free cash flow.    We define free cash flow as “Net cash flows from operating activities” less “Purchases of property and equipment” and “Capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations,” as shown on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

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RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Three Months Ended June 30, 2017 Compared to the Three Months Ended June 30, 2016.

	For the Three Months Ended June 30,						Variance
Statements of Operations Data	2017			2016			Amount			%
		(In thousands)
Revenue:
Subscriber-related revenue	$	3,614,279		$	3,826,216		$	(211,937)		(5.5)
Equipment sales and other revenue		29,353			38,375			(9,022)		(23.5)
Total revenue		3,643,632			3,864,591			(220,959)		(5.7)
Costs and Expenses:
Subscriber-related expenses		2,242,775			2,249,260			(6,485)		(0.3)
% of Subscriber-related revenue		62.1	%		58.8	%
Satellite and transmission expenses		163,980			175,625			(11,645)		(6.6)
% of Subscriber-related revenue		4.5	%		4.6	%
Cost of sales - equipment and other		22,136			28,245			(6,109)		(21.6)
Subscriber acquisition costs		275,460			349,449			(73,989)		(21.2)
General and administrative expenses		179,812			182,145			(2,333)		(1.3)
% of Total revenue		4.9	%		4.7	%
Litigation expense		295,695			—			295,695		*
Depreciation and amortization		211,671			239,585			(27,914)		(11.7)
Total costs and expenses		3,391,529			3,224,309			167,220		5.2
Operating income (loss)		252,103			640,282			(388,179)		(60.6)
Other Income (Expense):
Interest income		12,447			8,989			3,458		38.5
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized		(26,269)			(3,410)			(22,859)		*
Other, net		3,167			45,376			(42,209)		(93.0)
Total other income (expense)		(10,655)			50,955			(61,610)		*
Income (loss) before income taxes		241,448			691,237			(449,789)		(65.1)
Income tax (provision) benefit, net		(182,686)			(253,175)			70,489		27.8
Effective tax rate		75.7	%		36.6	%
Net income (loss)		58,762			438,062			(379,300)		(86.6)
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax		18,646			13,959			4,687		33.6
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	40,116		$	424,103		$	(383,987)		(90.5)
Other Data:
Pay-TV subscribers, as of period end (in millions)		13.332			13.593			(0.261)		(1.9)
Pay-TV subscriber additions, gross (in millions)		0.444			0.527			(0.083)		(15.7)
Pay-TV subscriber additions (losses), net (in millions)		(0.196)			(0.281)			0.085		30.2
Pay-TV average monthly subscriber churn rate (“Pay-TV churn rate”)		1.59	%		1.96	%		(0.37)	%	(18.9)
Pay-TV average subscriber acquisition cost per subscriber (“Pay-TV SAC”)	$	690		$	756		$	(66)		(8.7)
Pay-TV average monthly revenue per subscriber (“Pay-TV ARPU”)	$	87.25		$	89.98		$	(2.73)		(3.0)
Broadband subscribers, as of period end (in millions)		0.509			0.613			(0.104)		(17.0)
Broadband subscriber additions, gross (in millions)		0.008			0.041			(0.033)		(80.5)
Broadband subscriber additions (losses), net (in millions)		(0.046)			(0.015)			(0.031)		*
EBITDA	$	448,295		$	911,284		$	(462,989)		(50.8)

* Percentage is not meaningful.

Pay-TV subscribers.  We lost approximately 196,000 net Pay-TV subscribers during the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the loss of approximately 281,000 net Pay-TV subscribers during the same period in 2016.  The decrease in net Pay-TV subscriber losses during the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the same period in 2016 primarily resulted from a lower Pay-TV churn rate, partially offset by lower gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations. 

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Our Pay-TV churn rate for the three months ended June 30, 2017 was 1.59% compared to 1.96% for the same period in 2016.  This decrease primarily resulted from our increased emphasis on acquiring and retaining higher quality subscribers as well as an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscribers.  As described in “Explanation of Key Metrics and Other Items,” Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are reported net of disconnects in our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations.  Therefore, to the extent that our Sling branded pay-TV subscriber base grows, our Pay-TV churn rate will be positively impacted.  While our Pay-TV churn rate improved during the three months ended June 30, 2017, it continues to be adversely affected by increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing, bundled discount offers combining broadband, video and/or wireless services and other discounted promotional offers, as well as cord cutting.  Our Pay-TV churn rate is also impacted by, among other things, the credit quality of previously acquired subscribers, our ability to consistently provide outstanding customer service, price increases, programming interruptions in connection with the scheduled expiration of certain programming carriage contracts, our ability to control piracy and other forms of fraud and the level of our retention efforts. 

During the three months ended June 30, 2017, we activated approximately 444,000 gross new Pay-TV subscribers compared to approximately 527,000 gross new Pay-TV subscribers during the same period in 2016, a decrease of 15.7%.  This decrease in our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations was primarily impacted by increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing and retention efforts, bundled discount offers combining broadband, video and/or wireless services and other discounted promotional offers, as well as stricter customer acquisition policies for our DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, including an increased emphasis on acquiring higher quality subscribers.  This decrease was partially offset by an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations during the second quarter 2017. 

In the past, our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, net Pay-TV subscriber additions and Pay-TV churn rate have been negatively impacted as a result of programming interruptions and threatened programming interruptions in connection with the scheduled expiration of programming carriage contracts with content providers.  We cannot predict with any certainty the impact to our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, net Pay-TV subscriber additions and Pay-TV churn rate resulting from programming interruptions or threatened programming interruptions that may occur in the future.  As a result, we may at times suffer from periods of lower gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, lower net Pay-TV subscriber additions or higher net Pay-TV subscriber losses, and higher Pay-TV churn rates.

We have not always met our own standards for performing high-quality installations, effectively resolving subscriber issues when they arise, answering subscriber calls in an acceptable timeframe, effectively communicating with our subscriber base, reducing calls driven by the complexity of our business, improving the reliability of certain systems and subscriber equipment, and aligning the interests of certain independent third-party retailers and installers to provide high-quality service.  Most of these factors have affected both gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations as well as Pay-TV churn rate.  Our future gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations and our Pay-TV churn rate may be negatively impacted by these factors, which could in turn adversely affect our revenue.

Broadband subscribers.  We lost approximately 46,000 net Broadband subscribers during the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the loss of approximately 15,000 net Broadband subscribers during the same period in 2016.  The net Broadband subscriber losses during the three months ended June 30, 2017 primarily resulted from lower gross new Broadband subscriber activations and a higher number of customer disconnects.  During the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we activated approximately 8,000 and 41,000 gross new Broadband subscribers, respectively.  As a result of the MSA with Hughes, we are no longer marketing dishNET broadband satellite services provided on a wholesale basis by Hughes, and our Broadband subscriber count related to the Hughes service will decline through customer attrition. 

Subscriber-related revenue.  “Subscriber-related revenue” totaled $3.614 billion for the three months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $212 million or 5.5% compared to the same period in 2016.  The decrease in “Subscriber-related revenue” from the same period in 2016 was primarily related to the decrease in Pay-TV ARPU discussed below and a lower average Pay-TV subscriber base.  Included in “Subscriber-related revenue” was $101 million and $117 million of revenue related to our broadband services for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, representing 2.8% and 3.1% of our total “Subscriber-related revenue,” respectively.  We expect these trends in “Subscriber-related revenue” to continue.

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Pay-TV ARPU.  Pay-TV ARPU was $87.25 during the three months ended June 30, 2017 versus $89.98 during the same period in 2016.  The $2.73 or 3.0% decrease in Pay-TV ARPU was primarily attributable to a shift in DISH branded pay-TV programming package mix to lower priced programming packages and an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscribers as a percentage of our total Pay-TV subscriber base.  Sling branded pay-TV subscribers on average purchase lower priced programming services than DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, and therefore, the increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscribers had a negative impact on Pay-TV ARPU.  We expect this trend to continue.  These decreases were partially offset by DISH branded pay-TV programming package price increases in February 2017 and 2016.

Subscriber-related expenses.  “Subscriber-related expenses” totaled $2.243 billion during the three months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $6 million or 0.3% compared to the same period in 2016.  The decrease in “Subscriber-related expenses” was primarily attributable to a lower average Pay-TV subscriber base and a decrease in variable costs per subscriber, partially offset by higher programming costs per subscriber.  The increase in programming costs per subscriber was driven by rate increases in certain of our programming contracts, including the renewal of certain contracts at higher rates, particularly for local broadcast channels.  Included in “Subscriber-related expenses” was $60 million and $70 million of expense related to our broadband services for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  “Subscriber-related expenses” represented 62.1% and 58.8% of “Subscriber-related revenue” for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  The increase in this expense to revenue ratio primarily resulted from lower subscriber-related revenue and higher programming costs, discussed above.

In the normal course of business, we enter into contracts to purchase programming content in which our payment obligations are generally contingent on the number of Pay-TV subscribers to whom we provide the respective content.  Our “Subscriber-related expenses” have and may continue to face further upward pressure from price increases and the renewal of long-term programming contracts on less favorable pricing terms.  In addition, our programming expenses will continue to increase to the extent we are successful in growing our Pay-TV subscriber base.

Subscriber acquisition costs.  “Subscriber acquisition costs” totaled $275 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $74 million or 21.2% compared to the same period in 2016.  This change was primarily attributable to fewer gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, a decrease in Pay-TV SAC, discussed below, and a decrease in expense related to our Broadband subscriber activations.  Included in “Subscriber acquisition costs” was $4 million and $18 million of expenses related to our broadband services for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Pay-TV SAC.  Pay-TV SAC was $690 during the three months ended June 30, 2017 compared to $756 during the same period in 2016, a decrease of $66 or 8.7%.  This change was primarily attributable to an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations and a decrease in hardware costs per activation, partially offset by an increase in advertising costs per activation.  Subscriber acquisition costs for Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are significantly lower than those for DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, and therefore, the increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations during the second quarter 2017 had a positive impact on Pay-TV SAC.  We expect this trend to continue.  The decrease in hardware costs per activation was primarily due to a higher percentage of remanufactured receivers being activated on new DISH branded pay-TV subscriber accounts and by a reduction in manufacturing costs related to certain receiver systems.

During the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, the amount of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new DISH branded pay-TV subscribers totaled $35 million and $68 million, respectively.  This decrease in capital expenditures under our lease program for new DISH branded pay-TV subscribers resulted primarily from fewer gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations and a decrease in hardware costs per activation, discussed above.

To remain competitive we upgrade or replace subscriber equipment periodically as technology changes, and the costs associated with these upgrades may be substantial.  To the extent technological changes render a portion of our existing equipment obsolete, we would be unable to redeploy all returned equipment and consequently would realize less benefit from the Pay-TV SAC reduction associated with redeployment of that returned lease equipment.

Our “Subscriber acquisition costs” and “Pay-TV SAC” may materially increase in the future to the extent that we, among other things, transition to newer technologies, introduce more aggressive promotions, or provide greater equipment subsidies.  See further information under “Liquidity and Capital Resources — Subscriber Acquisition and Retention Costs.”

Litigation expense.    “Litigation expense” related to certain significant legal settlements, judgments or accruals totaled $296 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017.  See Note 10 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statementsfor further discussion.

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Depreciation and amortization.  “Depreciation and amortization” expense totaled $212 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017, a $28 million or 11.7% decrease compared to the same period in 2016.  This change was primarily driven by a  decrease in depreciation expense from equipment leased to new and existing DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, partially offset by the increase in depreciation expense associated with our EchoStar XVIII satellite, which became operational during the third quarter 2016. 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.  “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” totaled $26 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017, an increase of $23 million compared to the same period in 2016.  This increase was primarily related to interest expense associated with debt issuances during 2016 and 2017, partially offset by an increase of $61 million in capitalized interest principally associated with wireless spectrum.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  The addition of the carrying amount of these licenses, together with the carrying amount of current wireless spectrum licenses, exceeded the amount of long-term debt and capital lease obligations on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2017.  Therefore, we expect that materially all of our interest expense will be capitalized in future periods.  See Note 2 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Other, net.  “Other, net” income was $3 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $42 million or 93.0% compared to the same period in 2016.  This change resulted from a decrease in net realized and/or unrealized gains on our marketable investment securities and derivative financial instruments.  See Note 6 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.  EBITDA was $448 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $463 million or 50.8% compared to the same period in 2016.  EBITDA for the three months ended June 30, 2017 was negatively impacted by “Litigation expense” of $296 million.  EBITDA for the three months ended June 30, 2016 was positively impacted by “Other, net” income of $45 million. The following table reconciles EBITDA to the accompanying financial statements.

	For the Three Months Ended June 30,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
EBITDA	$	448,295	$	911,284
Interest, net		(13,822)		5,579
Income tax (provision) benefit, net		(182,686)		(253,175)
Depreciation and amortization		(211,671)		(239,585)
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	40,116	$	424,103

EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP.  EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry.  Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures.  EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Income tax (provision) benefit, net.  Our income tax provision was $183 million during the three months ended June 30, 2017,  a decrease of $70 million compared to the same period in 2016.  The decrease in the provision was primarily related to the decrease in “Income (loss) before income taxes,” partially offset by an increase in our effective tax rate.  Our effective tax rate was negatively impacted by $255 million of “Litigation expense” related to the FTC Action during the three months ended June 30, 2017, as any eventual payments of this expense may not be deductible for income tax purposes.  The tax deductibility of any eventual payments may change based upon, among other things, further developments in the FTC Action, including final adjudication of the FTC Action.  See Note 10 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

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Six Months Ended June 30, 2017 Compared to the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016.

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,						Variance
Statements of Operations Data	2017			2016			Amount			%
	(In thousands)
Revenue:
Subscriber-related revenue	$	7,258,365		$	7,601,694		$	(343,329)		(4.5)
Equipment sales and other revenue		65,628			90,371			(24,743)		(27.4)
Total revenue		7,323,993			7,692,065			(368,072)		(4.8)
Costs and Expenses:
Subscriber-related expenses		4,485,962			4,479,509			6,453		0.1
% of Subscriber-related revenue		61.8	%		58.9	%
Satellite and transmission expenses		340,162			344,206			(4,044)		(1.2)
% of Subscriber-related revenue		4.7	%		4.5	%
Cost of sales - equipment and other		50,109			68,511			(18,402)		(26.9)
Subscriber acquisition costs		565,494			725,842			(160,348)		(22.1)
General and administrative expenses		310,847			383,146			(72,299)		(18.9)
% of Total revenue		4.2	%		5.0	%
Litigation expense		295,695			—			295,695		*
Depreciation and amortization		416,301			467,151			(50,850)		(10.9)
Total costs and expenses		6,464,570			6,468,365			(3,795)		(0.1)
Operating income (loss)		859,423			1,223,700			(364,277)		(29.8)
Other Income (Expense):
Interest income		26,739			12,943			13,796		*
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized		(55,439)			(4,115)			(51,324)		*
Other, net		7,912			112,293			(104,381)		(93.0)
Total other income (expense)		(20,788)			121,121			(141,909)		*
Income (loss) before income taxes		838,635			1,344,821			(506,186)		(37.6)
Income tax (provision) benefit, net		(389,798)			(494,815)			105,017		21.2
Effective tax rate		46.5	%		36.8	%
Net income (loss)		448,837			850,006			(401,169)		(47.2)
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax		33,006			26,012			6,994		26.9
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	415,831		$	823,994		$	(408,163)		(49.5)
Other Data:
Pay-TV subscribers, as of period end (in millions)		13.332			13.593			(0.261)		(1.9)
Pay-TV subscriber additions, gross (in millions)		0.991			1.184			(0.193)		(16.3)
Pay-TV subscriber additions (losses), net (in millions)		(0.339)			(0.304)			(0.035)		(11.5)
Pay-TV average monthly subscriber churn rate (“Pay-TV churn rate”)		1.64	%		1.80	%		(0.16)	%	(8.9)
Pay-TV average subscriber acquisition cost per subscriber (“Pay-TV SAC”)	$	634		$	684		$	(50)		(7.3)
Pay-TV average monthly revenue per subscriber (“Pay-TV ARPU”)	$	86.90		$	88.96		$	(2.06)		(2.3)
Broadband subscribers, as of period end (in millions)		0.509			0.613			(0.104)		(17.0)
Broadband subscriber additions, gross (in millions)		0.035			0.097			(0.062)		(63.9)
Broadband subscriber additions (losses), net (in millions)		(0.071)			(0.010)			(0.061)		*
EBITDA	$	1,250,630		$	1,777,132		$	(526,502)		(29.6)
* Percentage is not meaningful.

Pay-TV subscribers.  We lost approximately 339,000 net Pay-TV subscribers during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the loss of approximately 304,000 net Pay-TV subscribers during the same period in 2016.  The increase in net Pay-TV subscriber losses during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the same period in 2016 primarily resulted from lower gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, partially offset by a lower Pay-TV churn rate.

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During the six months ended June 30, 2017, we activated approximately 991,000 gross new Pay-TV subscribers compared to approximately 1.184 million gross new Pay-TV subscribers during the same period in 2016, a decrease of 16.3%.  This decrease in our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations was primarily impacted by increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing and retention efforts, bundled discount offers combining broadband, video and/or wireless services and other discounted promotional offers, as well as stricter customer acquisition policies for our DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, including an increased emphasis on acquiring higher quality subscribers.  This decrease was partially offset by an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations during 2017. 

Our Pay-TV churn rate for the six months ended June 30, 2017 was 1.64% compared to 1.80% for the same period in 2016.  This decrease primarily resulted from an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscribers as well as our increased emphasis on acquiring and retaining higher quality subscribers.  As described in “Explanation of Key Metrics and Other Items,” Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are reported net of disconnects in our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations.  Therefore, to the extent that our Sling branded pay-TV subscriber base grows, our Pay-TV churn rate will be positively impacted.  While our Pay-TV churn rate improved during the six months ended June 30, 2017, it continues to be adversely affected by increased competitive pressures, including aggressive marketing, bundled discount offers combining broadband, video and/or wireless services and other discounted promotional offers, as well as cord cutting.  Our Pay-TV churn rate is also impacted by, among other things, the credit quality of previously acquired subscribers, our ability to consistently provide outstanding customer service, price increases, programming interruptions in connection with the scheduled expiration of certain programming carriage contracts, our ability to control piracy and other forms of fraud and the level of our retention efforts. 

In the past, our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, net Pay-TV subscriber additions and Pay-TV churn rate have been negatively impacted as a result of programming interruptions and threatened programming interruptions in connection with the scheduled expiration of programming carriage contracts with content providers.  We cannot predict with any certainty the impact to our gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, net Pay-TV subscriber additions and Pay-TV churn rate resulting from programming interruptions or threatened programming interruptions that may occur in the future.  As a result, we may at times suffer from periods of lower gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, lower net Pay-TV subscriber additions or higher net Pay-TV subscriber losses, and higher Pay-TV churn rates.

Broadband subscribers.  We lost approximately 71,000 net Broadband subscribers during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the loss of approximately 10,000 net Broadband subscribers during the same period in 2016.  The net Broadband subscriber losses during the six months ended June 30, 2017 primarily resulted from lower gross new Broadband subscriber activations and a higher number of customer disconnects.  During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we activated approximately 35,000 and 97,000 gross new Broadband subscribers, respectively.  As a result of the MSA with Hughes, we are no longer marketing dishNET broadband satellite services provided on a wholesale basis by Hughes, and our Broadband subscriber count related to the Hughes service will decline through customer attrition.

Subscriber-related revenue.  “Subscriber-related revenue” totaled $7.258 billion for the six months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $343 million or 4.5% compared to the same period in 2016.  The decrease in “Subscriber-related revenue” from the same period in 2016 was primarily related to the decrease in Pay-TV ARPU discussed below and a lower average Pay-TV subscriber base.  Included in “Subscriber-related revenue” was $209 million and $233 million of revenue related to our broadband services for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively, representing 2.9% and 3.1% of our total “Subscriber-related revenue,” respectively.  We expect these trends in “Subscriber-related revenue” to continue.

Pay-TV ARPU.  Pay-TV ARPU was $86.90 during the six months ended June 30, 2017 versus $88.96 during the same period in 2016.  The $2.06 or 2.3% decrease in Pay-TV ARPU was primarily attributable to an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscribers as a percentage of our total Pay-TV subscriber base and a shift in DISH branded pay-TV programming package mix to lower priced programming packages.  Sling branded pay-TV subscribers on average purchase lower priced programming services than DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, and therefore, the increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscribers had a negative impact on Pay-TV ARPU.  We expect this trend to continue.  These decreases were partially offset by DISH branded pay-TV programming package price increases in February 2017 and 2016.

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Subscriber-related expenses.  “Subscriber-related expenses” totaled $4.486 billion during the six months ended June 30, 2017, an increase of $6 million or 0.1% compared to the same period in 2016.  The increase in “Subscriber-related expenses” was primarily attributable to higher programming costs per subscriber, partially offset by a lower average Pay-TV subscriber base and a decrease in variable costs per subscriber.  The increase in programming costs per subscriber was driven by rate increases in certain of our programming contracts, including the renewal of certain contracts at higher rates, particularly for local broadcast channels.  Included in “Subscriber-related expenses” was $125 million and $140 million of expense related to our broadband services for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  “Subscriber-related expenses” represented 61.8% and 58.9% of “Subscriber-related revenue” for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  The increase in this expense to revenue ratio primarily resulted from lower subscriber-related revenue and higher programming costs, discussed above. 

Subscriber acquisition costs.  “Subscriber acquisition costs” totaled $565 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $160 million or 22.1% compared to the same period in 2016.  This change was primarily attributable to fewer gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, a decrease in Pay-TV SAC, discussed below, and a decrease in expense related to our Broadband subscriber activations.  Included in “Subscriber acquisition costs” was $14 million and $42 million of expenses related to our broadband services for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

Pay-TV SAC.  Pay-TV SAC was $634 during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to $684 during the same period in 2016, a decrease of $50 or 7.3%.  This change was primarily attributable to an increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations and a decrease in hardware costs per activation, partially offset by an increase in advertising costs per activation.  Subscriber acquisition costs for Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are significantly lower than those for DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, and therefore, the increase in Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations during 2017 had a positive impact on Pay-TV SAC.  We expect this trend to continue.  The decrease in hardware costs per activation was primarily due to a reduction in manufacturing costs related to certain receiver systems.

During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, the amount of equipment capitalized under our lease program for new DISH branded pay-TV subscribers totaled $77 million and $126 million, respectively.  This decrease in capital expenditures under our lease program for new DISH branded pay-TV subscribers resulted primarily from fewer gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations and a decrease in hardware costs per activation, discussed above.

General and administrative expenses.  “General and administrative expenses” totaled $311 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017, a $72 million or 18.9% decrease compared to the same period in 2016.  This decrease was primarily driven by a reimbursement of legal fees during the first quarter 2017 and a decrease in costs to support DISH Network.

Litigation expense.    “Litigation expense” related to certain significant legal settlements, judgments or accruals totaled $296 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017.  See Note 10 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statementsfor further discussion.

Depreciation and amortization.  “Depreciation and amortization” expense totaled $416 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017, a $51 million or 10.9% decrease compared to the same period in 2016.  This change was primarily driven by a  decrease in depreciation expense from equipment leased to new and existing DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, partially offset by the increase in depreciation expense associated with our EchoStar XVIII satellite, which became operational during the third quarter 2016. 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized.  “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” totaled $55 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017, an increase of $51 million compared to the same period in 2016.  This increase was primarily related to interest expense associated with debt issuances during 2016 and 2017, partially offset by an increase of $106 million in capitalized interest principally associated with wireless spectrum.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  The addition of the carrying amount of these licenses, together with the carrying amount of current wireless spectrum licenses, exceeded the amount of long-term debt and capital lease obligations on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2017.  Therefore, we expect that materially all of our interest expense will be capitalized in future periods.  See Note 2 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

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Other, net.  “Other, net” income was $8 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $104 million or 93.0% compared to the same period in 2016.  This change resulted from a decrease in net realized and/or unrealized gains on our marketable investment securities and derivative financial instruments.  See Note 6 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization.  EBITDA was $1.251 billion during the six months ended June 30, 2017, a decrease of $527 million or 29.6% compared to the same period in 2016.  EBITDA for the six months ended June 30, 2017 was negatively impacted by “Litigation expense” of $296 million.  EBITDA for the six months ended June 30, 2016 was positively impacted by “Other, net” income of $112 million. The following table reconciles EBITDA to the accompanying financial statements.

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	2017		2016
		(In thousands)
EBITDA	$	1,250,630	$	1,777,132
Interest, net		(28,700)		8,828
Income tax (provision) benefit, net		(389,798)		(494,815)
Depreciation and amortization		(416,301)		(467,151)
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	415,831	$	823,994

EBITDA is not a measure determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered a substitute for operating income, net income or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP.  EBITDA is used as a measurement of operating efficiency and overall financial performance and we believe it to be a helpful measure for those evaluating companies in the pay-TV industry.  Conceptually, EBITDA measures the amount of income generated each period that could be used to service debt, pay taxes and fund capital expenditures.  EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Income tax (provision) benefit, net.  Our income tax provision was $390 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017,  a decrease of $105 million compared to the same period in 2016.  The decrease in the provision was primarily related to the decrease in “Income (loss) before income taxes,” partially offset by an increase in our effective tax rate. 

Our effective tax rate was negatively impacted by $255 million of “Litigation expense” related to the FTC Action during the six months ended June 30, 2017, as any eventual payments of this expense may not be deductible for income tax purposes.  The tax deductibility of any eventual payments may change based upon, among other things, further developments in the FTC Action, including final adjudication of the FTC Action.  See Note 10 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Current Marketable Investment Securities

We consider all liquid investments purchased within 90 days of their maturity to be cash equivalents.  See Note 6 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information regarding our marketable investment securities.  As of June 30, 2017, our cash, cash equivalents and current marketable investment securities totaled $2.386 billion compared to $5.360 billion as of December 31, 2016, a decrease of $2.974 billion.  This decrease in cash, cash equivalents and current marketable investment securities primarily resulted from a $4.711 billion payment to the FCC for the 600 MHz Licenses and capital expenditures of $665 million (including capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations), partially offset by approximately $994 million in net proceeds from the issuance of our 2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024 (the “Convertible Notes due 2024”) and cash generated from operating activities of $1.493 billion. 

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Cash Flow

The following discussion highlights our cash flow activities during the six months ended June 30, 2017.

Cash flows from operating activities

For the six months ended June 30, 2017, we reported “Net cash flows from operating activities” of $1.493 billion primarily attributable to $1.208 billion of net income adjusted to exclude the non-cash items for “Depreciation and amortization” expense, “Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments” and “Deferred tax expense (benefit).”  In addition, “Net cash flows from operating activities” was impacted by the timing difference between book expense and cash payments including $296 million of “Litigation expense.”  See Note 10 in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statementsfor further discussion.

Cash flows from investing activities

For the six months ended June 30, 2017, we reported outflows from “Net cash flows from investing activities” of $5.435 billion primarily related to a $4.711 billion payment to the FCC for the 600 MHz Licenses, capital expenditures of $665 million (including capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations) and a $90 million purchase of a strategic investment, partially offset by $20 million in net sales of marketable investment securities.  The capital expenditures included $452 million of capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations, $146 million for new and existing Pay-TV subscriber equipment, $1 million for new and existing Broadband subscriber equipment and $66 million of other corporate capital expenditures. 

Cash flows from financing activities

For the six months ended June 30, 2017, we reported “Net cash flows from financing activities” of $983 million primarily related to approximately $994 million in net proceeds from the issuance of the Convertible Notes due 2024.

Free Cash Flow

We define free cash flow as “Net cash flows from operating activities” less “Purchases of property and equipment,” and “Capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations,” as shown on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.  We believe free cash flow is an important liquidity metric because it measures, during a given period, the amount of cash generated that is available to repay debt obligations, make investments, fund acquisitions and for certain other activities.  Free cash flow is not a measure determined in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered a substitute for “Operating income,” “Net income,” “Net cash flows from operating activities” or any other measure determined in accordance with GAAP.  Since free cash flow includes investments in operating assets, we believe this non-GAAP liquidity measure is useful in addition to the most directly comparable GAAP measure “Net cash flows from operating activities.”

Free cash flow can be significantly impacted from period to period by changes in operating assets and liabilities and in “Purchases of property and equipment” as shown in the “Net cash flows from operating activities” and “Net cash flows from investing activities” sections, respectively, of our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows included herein.  Operating asset and liability balances can fluctuate significantly from period to period and there can be no assurance that free cash flow will not be negatively impacted by material changes in operating assets and liabilities in future periods, since these changes depend upon, among other things, management’s timing of payments and control of inventory levels, and cash receipts.  In addition to fluctuations resulting from changes in operating assets and liabilities, free cash flow can vary significantly from period to period depending upon, among other things, subscriber growth, subscriber revenue, subscriber churn, subscriber acquisition and retention costs including amounts capitalized under our equipment lease programs, operating efficiencies, increases or decreases in purchases of property and equipment, commercialization of our wireless spectrum and other factors.

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The following table reconciles free cash flow to “Net cash flows from operating activities.”

	For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Free cash flow	$	828,288	$	866,813
Add back:
Purchases of property and equipment (including capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations)		664,808		724,837
Net cash flows from operating activities	$	1,493,096	$	1,591,650

Operational Liquidity

We make general investments in property such as satellites, set-top boxes, information technology and facilities that support our overall business.  Moreover, since we are primarily a subscriber-based company, we also make subscriber-specific investments to acquire new subscribers and retain existing subscribers.  While the general investments may be deferred without impacting the business in the short-term, the subscriber-specific investments are less discretionary.  Our overall objective is to generate sufficient cash flow over the life of each subscriber to provide an adequate return against the upfront investment.  Once the upfront investment has been made for each subscriber, the subsequent cash flow is generally positive, but there can be no assurances that over time we will recoup or earn a return on the upfront investment.

There are a number of factors that impact our future cash flow compared to the cash flow we generate at a given point in time.  The first factor is our Pay-TV churn rate and how successful we are at retaining our current Pay-TV subscribers.  As we lose Pay-TV subscribers from our existing base, the positive cash flow from that base is correspondingly reduced.  The second factor is how successful we are at maintaining our subscriber-related margins.  To the extent our “Subscriber-related expenses” grow faster than our “Subscriber-related revenue,” the amount of cash flow that is generated per existing subscriber is reduced.  The third factor is the rate at which we acquire new subscribers.  The faster we acquire new subscribers, the more our positive ongoing cash flow from existing subscribers is offset by the negative upfront cash flow associated with acquiring new subscribers.  Finally, our future cash flow is impacted by the rate at which we make general investments and any cash flow from financing activities.

Our subscriber-specific investments to acquire new subscribers have a significant impact on our cash flow.  While fewer subscribers will likely translate into lower ongoing cash flow in the long-term, cash flow is actually aided, in the short-term, by the reduction in subscriber-specific investment spending.  As a result, a slow-down in our business due to external or internal factors does not introduce the same level of short-term liquidity risk as it might in other industries.

Subscriber Base

We lost approximately 339,000 net Pay-TV subscribers during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the loss of approximately 304,000 net Pay-TV subscribers during the same period in 2016.  The increase in net Pay-TV subscriber losses during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the same period in 2016 primarily resulted from lower gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations, partially offset by a lower Pay-TV churn rate.  See “Results of Operations” above for further information.

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Subscriber Acquisition and Retention Costs

We incur significant upfront costs to acquire subscribers, including advertising, independent third-party retailer incentives, equipment subsidies, installation services, and/or new customer promotions.  While we attempt to recoup these upfront costs over the lives of their subscription, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in achieving that objective.  With respect to our DISH branded pay-TV service, we employ business rules such as minimum credit requirements for prospective customers and contractual commitments to receive service for a minimum term.  We strive to provide outstanding customer service, to increase the likelihood of customers keeping their Pay-TV services over longer periods of time.  Subscriber acquisition costs for Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are significantly lower than those for DISH branded pay-TV subscribers, and therefore, as Sling branded pay-TV subscriber activations increase, it will have a positive impact on subscriber acquisition costs.  Our subscriber acquisition costs may vary significantly from period to period.

We incur significant costs to retain our existing DISH branded pay-TV customers, mostly by upgrading their equipment to HD and DVR receivers and by providing retention credits.  As with our subscriber acquisition costs, our retention upgrade spending includes the cost of equipment and installation services.  In certain circumstances, we also offer programming at no additional charge and/or promotional pricing for limited periods to existing customers in exchange for a contractual commitment to receive service for a minimum term.  A component of our retention efforts includes the installation of equipment for customers who move.  Our subscriber retention costs may vary significantly from period to period.

Seasonality

Historically, the first half of the year generally produces fewer gross new Pay-TV subscriber activations than the second half of the year, as is typical in the pay-TV industry.  In addition, the first and fourth quarters generally produce a lower churn rate than the second and third quarters.  However, we cannot provide assurance that this will continue in the future.

Satellites

Operation of our DISH branded pay-TV service requires that we have adequate satellite transmission capacity for the programming that we offer.  Moreover, current competitive conditions require that we continue to expand our offering of new programming.  While we generally have had in-orbit satellite capacity sufficient to transmit our existing channels and some backup capacity to recover the transmission of certain critical programming, our backup capacity is limited.  In the event of a failure or loss of any of our owned or leased satellites, we may need to acquire or lease additional satellite capacity or relocate one of our other satellites and use it as a replacement for the failed or lost satellite.  Such a failure could result in a prolonged loss of critical programming or a significant delay in our plans to expand programming as necessary to remain competitive and cause us to expend a significant portion of our cash to acquire or lease additional satellite capacity.

Security Systems

Increases in theft of our signal or our competitors’ signals could, in addition to reducing gross new subscriber activations, also cause subscriber churn to increase.  We use Security Access Devices in our DBS receiver systems to control access to authorized programming content.  Our signal encryption has been compromised in the past and may be compromised in the future even though we continue to respond with significant investment in security measures, such as Security Access Device replacement programs and updates in security software, that are intended to make signal theft more difficult.  It has been our prior experience that security measures may only be effective for short periods of time or not at all and that we remain susceptible to additional signal theft.  We expect that future replacements of Security Access Devices may be necessary to keep our system secure.  We cannot ensure that we will be successful in reducing or controlling theft of our programming content and we may incur additional costs in the future if our system’s security is compromised.

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Covenants and Restrictions Related to our Long-Term Debt

We are subject to the covenants and restrictions set forth in the indentures related to our long-term debt.  In particular, the indentures related to our outstanding senior notes issued by DISH DBS Corporation (“DISH DBS”) contain restrictive covenants that, among other things, impose limitations on the ability of DISH DBS and its restricted subsidiaries to:  (i) incur additional indebtedness; (ii) enter into sale and leaseback transactions; (iii) pay dividends or make distributions on DISH DBS’ capital stock or repurchase DISH DBS’ capital stock; (iv) make certain investments; (v) create liens; (vi) enter into certain transactions with affiliates; (vii) merge or consolidate with another company; and (viii) transfer or sell assets.  Should we fail to comply with these covenants, all or a portion of the debt under the senior notes and our other long-term debt could become immediately payable.  The senior notes also provide that the debt may be required to be prepaid if certain change-in-control events occur.  In addition, the 3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026 (the “Convertible Notes due 2026”) and the Convertible Notes due 2024 provide that, if a “fundamental change” (as defined in the related indenture) occurs, holders may require us to repurchase for cash all or part of their Convertible Notes due 2026 and their Convertible Notes due 2024.  As of the date of filing of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, we and DISH DBS were in compliance with the covenants and restrictions related to our respective long-term debt.

Other

We are also vulnerable to fraud, particularly in the acquisition of new subscribers.  While we are addressing the impact of subscriber fraud through a number of actions, there can be no assurance that we will not continue to experience fraud, which could impact our subscriber growth and churn.  Economic weakness may create greater incentive for signal theft, piracy and subscriber fraud, which could lead to higher subscriber churn and reduced revenue.

Obligations and Future Capital Requirements

We expect to fund our future working capital, capital expenditures and debt service requirements from cash generated from operations, existing cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities balances, and cash generated through raising additional capital.  The amount of capital required to fund our future working capital and capital expenditure needs varies, depending on, among other things, the rate at which we acquire new subscribers and the cost of subscriber acquisition and retention, including capitalized costs associated with our new and existing subscriber equipment lease programs.  The majority of our capital expenditures for 2017, with the exception of the commercialization of our wireless spectrum licenses and purchase of additional wireless spectrum licenses discussed below, are expected to be driven by the costs associated with subscriber premises equipment and capital expenditures for our satellite-related obligations.  These expenditures are necessary to operate and maintain our Pay-TV services.  Consequently, we consider them to be non-discretionary.  The amount of capital required will also depend on the levels of investment necessary to support potential strategic initiatives that may arise from time to time.  Our capital expenditures vary depending on the number of satellites leased or under construction at any point in time, and could increase materially as a result of increased competition, significant satellite failures, or economic weakness and uncertainty.  Our Pay-TV subscriber base has been declining and there can be no assurance that our Pay-TV subscriber base will not continue to decline and that the pace of such decline will not accelerate.  In the event that our Pay-TV subscriber base continues to decline, it could have a material adverse long-term effect on our cash flow.  In addition, the rulings in the Do Not Call litigation requiring us to pay up to an aggregate amount of $341 million and imposing certain injunctive relief against us, if upheld, would have a material adverse effect on our cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities balances and our business operations.  These factors, including a reduction in our available future cash flows, could require that we raise additional capital in the future.

Volatility in the financial markets has made it more difficult at times for issuers of high-yield indebtedness, such as us, to access capital markets at acceptable terms.  These developments may have a significant effect on our cost of financing and our liquidity position.

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Wireless

Since 2008, we have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets and made over $10 billion in non-controlling investments in certain entities, for a total of over $21 billion, as described further below.

DISH Network Spectrum

We have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.  Most recently, Auction 1000 began on March 29, 2016 and concluded on March 30, 2017.  On April 13, 2017, the FCC announced that ParkerB.com, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network, was the winning bidder for certain 600 MHz Licenses with aggregate winning bids totaling approximately $6.211 billion.  On April 27, 2017, ParkerB.com filed an application with the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  On July 1, 2016, we paid $1.5 billion to the FCC as a deposit for Auction 1000.  On May 11, 2017, we paid the remaining balance of our winning bids of approximately $4.711 billion.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.

We will need to make significant additional investments or partner with others to, among other things, commercialize, build-out, and integrate these licenses and related assets, and any additional acquired licenses and related assets; and comply with regulations applicable to such licenses.  Depending on the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, and regulatory compliance, any such investments or partnerships could vary significantly.  In addition, as we consider our options for the commercialization of our wireless spectrum, we will incur significant additional expenses and will have to make significant investments related to, among other things, research and development, wireless testing and wireless network infrastructure.  In March 2017, we notified the FCC that we plan to deploy a next-generation 5G-capable network, focused on supporting narrowband IoT.  The first phase of the network deployment will be completed by March 2020, with subsequent phases to be completed thereafter.  We may also determine that additional wireless spectrum licenses may be required to commercialize our wireless business and to compete with other wireless service providers. 

See Note 10 “Commitments and Contingencies — DISH Network Spectrum” in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses.Through our wholly-owned subsidiaries American II and American III, we have made over $10 billion in certain non-controlling investments in Northstar Spectrum, the parent company of Northstar Wireless, and in SNR HoldCo, the parent company of SNR Wireless, respectively.  On October 27, 2015, the FCC granted certain AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless and to SNR Wireless, respectively, which are recorded in “FCC authorizations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, Northstar Spectrum and SNR HoldCo are considered variable interest entities and, based on the characteristics of the structure of these entities and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate these entities into our financial statements.  See Note 2 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.  The AWS-3 Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  We may need to make significant additional loans to the Northstar Entities and to the SNR Entities, or they may need to partner with others, so that the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities may commercialize, build-out and integrate these AWS-3 Licenses, comply with regulations applicable to such AWS-3 Licenses, and make any potential payments related to the re-auction of AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC.  Depending upon the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, regulatory compliance, and potential re-auction payments, any such loans or partnerships could vary significantly.  See Note 10 “Commitments and Contingencies —DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses” in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

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We may need to raise significant additional capital in the future to fund the efforts described above, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all.  There can be no assurance that we, the Northstar Entities and/or the SNR Entities will be able to develop and implement business models that will realize a return on these wireless spectrum licenses or that we, the Northstar Entities and/or the SNR Entities will be able to profitably deploy the assets represented by these wireless spectrum licenses, which may affect the carrying amount of these assets and our future financial condition or results of operations.  See Note 10 “Commitments and Contingencies” in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further information.

Availability of Credit and Effect on Liquidity

The ability to raise capital has generally existed for us despite economic weakness and uncertainty.  While modest fluctuations in the cost of capital will not likely impact our current operational plans, significant fluctuations could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

Debt Maturity

Our 4 5/8% Senior Notes with an aggregate principal balance of $900 million were redeemed on July 17, 2017. 

Our 4 1/4% Senior Notes with an aggregate principal balance of $1.2 billion mature on April 1, 2018.  We expect to fund this obligation from cash and marketable investment securities balances at that time.  But, depending on market conditions, we may refinance this obligation in whole or in part.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Other than the “Guarantees” disclosed in Note 10 in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, we generally do not engage in off-balance sheet financing activities.

New Accounting Pronouncements

Revenue from Contracts with Customers.  On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2014-09”), and has modified the standard thereafter.  On July 9, 2015, the FASB approved a one year deferral on the effective date for implementation of this standard, which changed the effective date for us to January 1, 2018. This converged standard on revenue recognition was issued jointly with the International Accounting Standards Board to create common revenue recognition guidance for GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards.  ASU 2014-09 provides a framework for revenue recognition that replaces most existing GAAP revenue recognition guidance when it becomes effective.  ASU 2014-09 allows for either a full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption.  We are evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.  We have not yet selected an adoption method.  While we have not determined the effect of the standard on our ongoing financial reporting, we believe that the standard will, among other things, change the allocation and timing of when revenue is recognized for those customers who have a contractual commitment to receive service for a minimum term, including time-limited discounts or free service periods.  Under current accounting rules, we recognize revenue net of discounts during the promotional periods and do not recognize any revenue during free service periods.  Under ASU 2014-09, revenue recognition will be accelerated for these contracts as the impact of discounts or free service periods that are considered performance obligations will be recognized uniformly over the total contractual period.  In addition, the standard will require that incremental costs to obtain a customer, which represent a significant portion of our non-advertising subscriber acquisition costs, be deferred and recognized over the expected customer life, whereas our current policy is to expense these costs as incurred.  As the new standard will impact revenue and cost recognition for a significant number of our contracts, as well as our business processes and information technology systems, our evaluation of the effect of the new standard is ongoing.  We are currently in the process of identifying and implementing changes to our systems, processes, and internal controls to meet the requirements of the standard.  The ultimate impact of adopting ASU 2014-09 for both revenue recognition and costs to obtain and fulfill contracts will depend on the promotions and offers in placeduring the period leading up to and after the adoptionof ASU 2014-09.

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Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. On January 5, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”),  which amends certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments.  This amendment requires all equity investments to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income (other than those accounted for under equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee).  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-01 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Leases.    On February 25, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 Leases (“ASU 2016-02”), which relates to the accounting of leasing transactions.  This standard requires a lessee to record on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by leases with lease terms of more than 12 months.  In addition, this standard requires both lessees and lessors to disclose certain key information about lease transactions.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Financial Instruments – Credit Losses.On June 16, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments – Credit Losses, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”), which changes the way entities measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net earnings.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

Statement of Cash Flows - Update.On August 26, 2016, the FASB issued 2016-15 Statement of Cash Flows: Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (“ASU 2016-15”).  This update consists of eight provisions that provide guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments.  If practicable, this update should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented.  For the provisions that are impracticable to apply retrospectively, those provisions may be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable.  This update will become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-15 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Statement of Cash Flows:  Restricted Cash.  On November 17, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18 Restricted Cash (“ASU 2016-18”),  which addresses the diversity where changes in restricted cash are classified on the cash flow statement.  ASU 2016-18 requires that changes in restricted cash and cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts on the statement of cash flows.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We expect that the adoption of ASU 2016-18 will have an immaterial impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

Item 3.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

There have been no material changes in our market risk during the six months ended June 30, 2017.  For additional information, see Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk in Part II of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

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Item 4.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Conclusion regarding disclosure controls and procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.

Changes in internal control over financial reporting

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) during our most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

See Note 10 “Commitments and Contingencies - Litigation” in the Notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for information regarding certain legal proceedings in which we are involved.

Item 1A.  RISK FACTORS

Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016 includes a detailed discussion of our risk factors.  The information presented below updates, and should be read in conjunction with, the risk factors and information disclosed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.

The rulings in the Do Not Call litigation requiring us to pay up to an aggregate amount of $341 million and imposing certain injunctive relief against us, if upheld, would have a material adverse effect on our cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities balances and our business operations.

On March 25, 2009, our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. was sued in a civil action by the United States Attorney General and several states in the United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois (the “FTC Action”), alleging violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (“TCPA”) and the Telemarketing Sales Rule (“TSR”), as well as analogous state statutes and state consumer protection laws.  The plaintiffs alleged that we, directly and through certain independent third-party retailers and their affiliates, committed certain telemarketing violations.  On December 23, 2013, the plaintiffs filed a motion for summary judgment, which indicated for the first time that the state plaintiffs were seeking civil penalties and damages of approximately $270 million and that the federal plaintiff was seeking an unspecified amount of civil penalties (which could substantially exceed the civil penalties and damages being sought by the state plaintiffs).  The plaintiffs were also seeking injunctive relief that if granted would, among other things, enjoin DISH Network L.L.C., whether acting directly or indirectly through authorized telemarketers or independent third-party retailers, from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services for five years, and enjoin DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting activations or sales from certain existing independent third-party retailers and from certain new independent third-party retailers, except under certain circumstances.  We also filed a motion for summary judgment, seeking dismissal of all claims.  On December 12, 2014, the Court issued its opinion with respect to the parties’ summary judgment motions.  The Court found that DISH Network L.L.C. was entitled to partial summary judgment with respect to one claim in the action.  In addition, the Court found that the plaintiffs were entitled to partial summary judgment with respect to ten claims in the action, which included, among other things, findings by the Court establishing DISH Network L.L.C.’s liability for a substantial amount of the alleged outbound telemarketing calls by DISH Network L.L.C. and certain of its independent third-party retailers that were the subject of the plaintiffs’ motion.  The Court did not issue any injunctive relief and did not make any determination on civil penalties or damages, ruling instead that the scope of any injunctive relief and the amount of any civil penalties or damages were questions for trial. 

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In pre-trial disclosures, the federal plaintiff indicated that it intended to seek up to $900 million in alleged civil penalties, and the state plaintiffs indicated that they intended to seek as much as $23.5 billion in alleged civil penalties and damages.  The plaintiffs also modified their request for injunctive relief.  Their requested injunction, if granted, would have enjoined DISH Network L.L.C. from placing outbound telemarketing calls unless and until: (i) DISH Network L.L.C. hired a third-party consulting organization to perform a review of its call center operations; (ii) such third-party consulting organization submitted a telemarketing compliance plan to the Court and the federal plaintiff; (iii) the Court held a hearing on the adequacy of the plan; (iv) if the Court approved the plan, DISH Network L.L.C. implemented the plan and verified to the Court that it had implemented the plan; and (v) the Court issued an order permitting DISH Network L.L.C. to resume placing outbound telemarketing calls.  The plaintiffs’ modified request for injunctive relief, if granted, would have also enjoined DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting customer orders solicited by certain independent third-party retailers unless and until a similar third-party review and Court approval process was followed with respect to the telemarketing activities of its independent third-party retailer base to ensure compliance with the TSR.

The first phase of the bench trial took place January 19, 2016 through February 11, 2016.  In closing briefs, the federal plaintiff indicated that it still was seeking $900 million in alleged civil penalties; the California state plaintiff indicated that it was seeking $100 million in alleged civil penalties and damages for its state law claims (in addition to any amounts sought on its federal law claims); the Ohio state plaintiff indicated that it was seeking approximately $10 million in alleged civil penalties and damages for its state law claims (in addition to any amounts sought on its federal law claims); and the Illinois and North Carolina state plaintiffs did not state the specific alleged civil penalties and damages that they were seeking; but the state plaintiffs took the general position that any damages award less than $1.0 billion (presumably for both federal and state law claims) would not raise constitutional concerns.  Under the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, excessive fines may not be imposed. 

On October 3, 2016, the plaintiffs further modified their request for injunctive relief, and were seeking, among other things, to enjoin DISH Network L.L.C., whether acting directly or indirectly through authorized telemarketers or independent third-party retailers, from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services for five years, and enjoin DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting activations or sales from some or all existing independent third-party retailers.  The second phase of the bench trial, which commenced on October 25, 2016 and concluded on November 2, 2016, covered the plaintiffs’ requested injunctive relief, as well as certain evidence related to the state plaintiffs’ claims.

On June 5, 2017, the Court issued Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law and entered Judgment ordering DISH Network L.L.C. to pay an aggregate amount of $280 million to the federal and state plaintiffs.  The Court also issued a Permanent Injunction (the “Injunction”) against DISH Network L.L.C. that imposes certain ongoing compliance requirements on DISH Network L.L.C., which include, among other things: (i) the retention of a telemarketing-compliance expert to prepare a plan to ensure that DISH Network L.L.C. and certain independent third-party retailers will continue to comply with telemarketing laws and the Injunction; (ii) certain telemarketing records retention and production requirements; and (iii) certain compliance reporting and monitoring requirements.  In addition to the compliance requirements under the Injunction, within ninety (90) days after the effective date of the Injunction, DISH Network L.L.C. is required to demonstrate that it and certain independent third-party retailers are in compliance with the Safe Harbor Provisions of the TSR and TCPA and have made no prerecorded telemarketing calls during the five (5) years prior to the effective date of the Injunction (collectively, the “Demonstration Requirements”).  If DISH Network L.L.C. fails to prove that it meets the Demonstration Requirements, it will be barred from conducting any outbound telemarketing for two (2) years.  If DISH Network L.L.C. fails to prove that a particular independent third-party retailer meets the Demonstration Requirements, DISH Network L.L.C. will be barred from accepting orders from that independent third-party retailer for two (2) years.  On July 3, 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed two motions with the Court:  (1) to alter or amend the Judgment or in the alternative to amend the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law; and (2) to clarify, alter and amend the Injunction. 

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We may also from time to time be subject to private civil litigation alleging telemarketing violations.  For example, a portion of the alleged telemarketing violations by an independent third-party retailer at issue in the FTC Action are also the subject of a certified class action filed against DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina (the “Krakauer Action”).  Following a five-day trial, on January 19, 2017, a jury in that case found that the independent third-party retailer was acting as DISH Network L.L.C.’s agent when it made the 51,119 calls at issue in that case, and that class members are eligible to recover $400 in damages for each call made in violation of the TCPA.  On March 7, 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed motions with the Court for judgment as a matter of law and, in the alternative, for a new trial, which the Court denied on May 16, 2017.  On May 22, 2017, the Court ruled that the violations were willful and knowing, and trebled the damages award to $1,200 for each call made in violation of TCPA. 

The rulings in the Do Not Call litigation requiring us to pay up to an aggregate amount of $341 million and imposing certain injunctive relief against us, if upheld, would have a material adverse effect on our cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities balances and our business operations.

Item 2.UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

The following table provides information regarding repurchases of our Class A common stock from April 1, 2017 through June 30, 2017:

				Total Number of	Maximum Approximate
	Total			Shares Purchased	Dollar Value of Shares
	Number of	Average		as Part of Publicly	that May Yet be
	Shares	Price Paid		Announced	Purchased Under the
Period	Purchased	per Share		Programs	Programs (1)
	(In thousands, except share data)
April 1, 2017 - April 30, 2017	—	$	—	—	$	1,000,000
May 1, 2017 - May 31, 2017	—	$	—	—	$	1,000,000
June 1, 2017 - June 30, 2017	—	$	—	—	$	1,000,000
Total	—	$	—	—	$	1,000,000

(1) On November 2, 2016, our Board of Directors authorized stock repurchases of up to $1.0 billion of our outstanding Class A common stock through and including December 31, 2017.  Purchases under our repurchase program may be made through open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, or Rule 10b5-1 trading plans, subject to market conditions and other factors.  We may elect not to purchase the maximum amount of shares allowable under this program and we may also enter into additional share repurchase programs authorized by our Board of Directors.

Item 5.OTHER INFORMATION

Frequency of Future Non-Binding Shareholder Advisory Votes on Executive Compensation  

As previously reported in a Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 5, 2017, at our 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders held on May 1, 2017, our shareholders approved, on a non-binding advisory basis, the holding of a non-binding shareholder advisory vote on executive compensation every three years.  Based on this voting result, among other factors, the Company will include a non-binding shareholder advisory vote on executive compensation in its proxy materials every three years until the next required shareholder vote on the frequency of such non-binding advisory votes on executive compensation.

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Item 6.EXHIBITS

(a)Exhibits.

10.1☐	Description of certain performance-based cash awards to certain executive officers (incorporated by reference to Item 5.02 of the Current Report on Form 8‑K of DISH Network Corporation filed May 5, 2017, Commission File No. 0-26176).
31.1*	Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.
31.2*	Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.
32.1*	Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.
32.2*	Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.
101*	The following materials from the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH Network for the quarter ended June 30, 2017, filed on August 3, 2017, formatted in eXtensible Business Reporting Language (“XBRL”):  (i) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss), (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows and (iv) related notes to these financial statements.

☐	Incorporated by reference.
*	Filed herewith.
**	Certain portions of the exhibit have been omitted and separately filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission with a request for confidential treatment.

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

DISH NETWORK CORPORATION
By:	/s/ Charles W. Ergen
Charles W. Ergen
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
(Duly Authorized Officer)
By:	/s/ Steven E. Swain
Steven E. Swain
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
By:	/s/ Paul W. Orban
Paul W. Orban
Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer)

Date:  August 3, 2017

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EX-31.1

EXHIBIT 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Section 302 Certification

I, Charles W. Ergen, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH Network Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Ovember

Date: August 3, 2017

/s/ Charles W. Ergen

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

EXHIBIT 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Section 302 Certification

I, Steven E. Swain, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of DISH Network Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Ovember

Date: August 3, 2017

/s/ Steven E. Swain

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

EXHIBIT 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Section 906 Certification

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, the undersigned officer of DISH Network Corporation (the “Company”) hereby certifies that to the best of his knowledge the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2017 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Dated:	August 3, 2017
Name:	/s/ Charles W. Ergen
Title:	Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906, or other document authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting the signature that appears in typed form within the electronic version of this written statement required by Section 906, has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

EX-32.2

EXHIBIT 32.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Section 906 Certification

Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, the undersigned officer of DISH Network Corporation (the “Company”) hereby certifies that to the best of his knowledge the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2017 (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Dated:	August 3, 2017
Name:	/s/ Steven E. Swain
Title:	Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

The foregoing certification is being furnished solely pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.

A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906, or other document authenticating, acknowledging, or otherwise adopting the signature that appears in typed form within the electronic version of this written statement required by Section 906, has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.

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Document and Entity Information - shares	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jul. 26, 2017
Entity Registrant Name	DISH Network CORP
Entity Central Index Key	0001001082
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	Jun. 30, 2017
Amendment Flag	false
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q2
Class A common stock
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		227,677,198
Class B common stock
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		238,435,208

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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 2,365,893	$ 5,324,503
Marketable investment securities	20,560	35,616
Trade accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $19,748 and $18,399, respectively	737,029	777,908
Inventory	373,676	422,349
FCC auction deposit (Note 10)		1,500,000
Other current assets	215,874	220,011
Total current assets	3,713,032	8,280,387
Noncurrent Assets:
Restricted cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities	81,433	82,360
Property and equipment, net	2,447,945	2,654,271
FCC authorizations	23,198,010	16,498,733
Other investment securities	119,750	33,248
Other noncurrent assets, net	357,389	365,293
Total noncurrent assets	26,204,527	19,633,905
Total assets	29,917,559	27,914,292
Current Liabilities:
Trade accounts payable	328,098	524,704
Deferred revenue and other	743,128	773,982
Accrued programming	1,583,346	1,542,036
Accrued interest	303,656	305,739
Other accrued expenses (Note 10)	802,397	504,468
Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations.	2,140,980	941,903
Total current liabilities	5,901,605	4,592,832
Long-Term Obligations, Net of Current Portion:
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current portion	15,107,048	15,541,736
Deferred tax liabilities	2,851,441	2,385,525
Long-term deferred revenue and other long-term liabilities	468,897	463,242
Total long-term obligations, net of current portion	18,427,386	18,390,503
Total liabilities	24,328,991	22,983,335
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Redeemable noncontrolling interests (Note 2)	350,643	319,634
Stockholders' Equity (Deficit):
Additional paid-in capital	3,275,059	3,071,425
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5,632	781
Accumulated earnings (deficit)	1,952,522	1,536,691
Total DISH Network stockholders' equity (deficit)	5,237,874	4,613,549
Noncontrolling interests	51	(2,226)
Total stockholders' equity (deficit)	5,237,925	4,611,323
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity (deficit)	29,917,559	27,914,292
Class A common stock
Stockholders' Equity (Deficit):
Common stock	2,277	2,268
Class B common stock
Stockholders' Equity (Deficit):
Common stock	$ 2,384	$ 2,384

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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current Assets:
Allowance for doubtful accounts on trade accounts receivable	$ 19,748	$ 18,399
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 86.08
Class A common stock
Current Assets:
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	1,600,000,000	1,600,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	227,675,526	226,812,205
Common stock, shares outstanding	227,675,526	226,812,205
Class B common stock
Current Assets:
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized	800,000,000	800,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	238,435,208	238,435,208
Common stock, shares outstanding	238,435,208	238,435,208

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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Revenue:
Subscriber-related revenue	$ 3,614,279	$ 3,826,216	$ 7,258,365	$ 7,601,694
Equipment sales and other revenue	29,353	38,375	65,628	90,371
Total revenue	3,643,632	3,864,591	7,323,993	7,692,065
Costs and Expenses (exclusive of depreciation shown separately below - Note 8):
Subscriber-related expenses	2,242,775	2,249,260	4,485,962	4,479,509
Satellite and transmission expenses	163,980	175,625	340,162	344,206
Cost of sales - equipment and other	22,136	28,245	50,109	68,511
Subscriber acquisition costs:
Cost of sales - subscriber promotion subsidies	22,388	38,404	43,399	93,930
Other subscriber acquisition costs	134,817	181,276	276,761	373,780
Subscriber acquisition advertising	118,255	129,769	245,334	258,132
Total subscriber acquisition costs	275,460	349,449	565,494	725,842
General and administrative expenses	179,812	182,145	310,847	383,146
Litigation expense (Note 10)	295,695		295,695
Depreciation and amortization (Note 8)	211,671	239,585	416,301	467,151
Total costs and expenses	3,391,529	3,224,309	6,464,570	6,468,365
Operating income (loss)	252,103	640,282	859,423	1,223,700
Other Income (Expense):
Interest income	12,447	8,989	26,739	12,943
Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized	(26,269)	(3,410)	(55,439)	(4,115)
Other, net	3,167	45,376	7,912	112,293
Total other income (expense)	(10,655)	50,955	(20,788)	121,121
Income (loss) before income taxes	241,448	691,237	838,635	1,344,821
Income tax (provision) benefit, net	(182,686)	(253,175)	(389,798)	(494,815)
Net income (loss)	58,762	438,062	448,837	850,006
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax	18,646	13,959	33,006	26,012
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$ 40,116	$ 424,103	$ 415,831	$ 823,994
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock:
Basic (in shares)	466,019	464,803	465,717	464,589
Diluted (in shares)	466,935	465,640	519,861	465,429
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share)	$ 0.09	$ 0.91	$ 0.89	$ 1.77
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share)	$ 0.09	$ 0.91	$ 0.86	$ 1.77
Comprehensive Income (Loss):
Net income (loss)	$ 58,762	$ 438,062	$ 448,837	$ 850,006
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments	639		846
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities	801	2,497	6,965	(104)
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)	(630)	(28,953)	(634)	(93,643)
Deferred income tax (expense) benefit, net	(62)	9,239	(2,326)	34,156
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	748	(17,217)	4,851	(59,591)
Comprehensive income (loss)	59,510	420,845	453,688	790,415
Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax	18,646	13,959	33,006	26,012
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$ 40,864	$ 406,886	$ 420,682	$ 764,403

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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Cash Flows From Operating Activities:
Net income (loss)	$ 448,837	$ 850,006
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash flows from operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	416,301	467,151
Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on investments	(4,759)	(113,012)
Non-cash, stock-based compensation	11,863	3,745
Deferred tax expense (benefit)	347,550	185,034
Other, net	41,716	52,419
Changes in current assets and current liabilities, net	231,588	146,307
Net cash flows from operating activities	1,493,096	1,591,650
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Purchases of marketable investment securities	(72,224)	(136,212)
Sales and maturities of marketable investment securities	92,671	563,416
Settlement of derivative financial instruments		562,234
Purchases of property and equipment	(212,387)	(319,766)
Capitalized interest related to FCC authorizations (Note 2)	(452,421)	(405,071)
Purchases of FCC authorizations (Note 10)	(4,711,154)
Purchase of strategic investments	(90,381)
Other, net	10,754	9,049
Net cash flows from investing activities	(5,435,142)	273,650
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes		2,000,000
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes (Note 9)	1,000,000
Redemption and repurchases of senior notes		(1,500,000)
Repayment of long-term debt and capital lease obligations	(20,086)	(20,858)
Payments made to parent of transferred businesses	(7,098)	(48,163)
Net proceeds from Class A common stock options exercised and stock issued under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan	16,778	7,443
Debt issuance costs	(6,158)
Other, net		(7,548)
Net cash flows from financing activities	983,436	430,874
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	(2,958,610)	2,296,174
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period	5,324,503	1,053,983
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period	$ 2,365,893	$ 3,350,157

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Organization and Business Activities

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Organization and Business Activities

Organization and Business Activities

1.Organization and Business Activities

Principal Business

DISH Network Corporation is a holding company.  Its subsidiaries (which together with DISH Network Corporation are referred to as “DISH Network,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” and/or “our,” unless otherwise required by the context) operate two primary business segments.

Pay-TV and Broadband

We offer pay-TV services under the DISH®  brand and the Sling® brand (collectively “Pay-TV” services).  The DISH branded pay-TV service consists of, among other things, Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”) licenses authorizing us to use direct broadcast satellite (“DBS”) and Fixed Satellite Service (“FSS”) spectrum, our owned and leased satellites, receiver systems, broadcast operations, customer service facilities, a leased fiber optic network, in-home service and call center operations, and certain other assets utilized in our operations.  The Sling branded pay-TV services consist of, among other things, live, linear streaming over-the-top (“OTT”) Internet-based domestic, international and Latino video programming services (“Sling TV”).  Our Sling domestic service has a single-stream service branded Sling Orange and a multi-stream service branded Sling Blue, which includes, among other things, the ability to stream on up to three devices simultaneously.  All Sling branded pay-TV subscribers are included in our Pay-TV subscriber count.  As of June 30, 2017, we had 13.332 million Pay-TV subscribers in the United States. 

In addition, we have marketed broadband services under the dishNET™ brand, which had 0.509 million subscribers in the United States as of June 30, 2017.  Our dishNET satellite broadband service has utilized advanced technology and high-powered satellites launched by Hughes Communications, Inc. (“Hughes”) and ViaSat, Inc. (“ViaSat”) to provide broadband coverage nationwide, primarily targeting rural residents that are underserved, or unserved, by wireline broadband.  We also offer wireline broadband services under the dishNET brand as a competitive local exchange carrier to consumers in certain areas in 34 states and wireline voice services in certain areas of 14 of these states located in the western United States.  We have primarily bundled our dishNET branded services with our DISH branded pay-TV service.  During the first quarter 2017, we decided to transition our wholesale arrangement with Hughes to an authorized representative arrangement and entered into a master service agreement (the “MSA”) with Hughes Network Systems, LLC (“HNS”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hughes, pursuant to which we, among other things: (i) have the right, but not the obligation, to market, promote and solicit orders for the Hughes broadband satellite service and related equipment; and (ii) install Hughes service equipment with respect to activations generated by us.  While broadband subscriber activations generated by us under the MSA are not included in our Broadband subscriber count, under the MSA, HNS will make certain payments to us for each Hughes service activation generated and installation performed by us, and we will not have to incur subscriber acquisition costs for these subscribers.  See Note 12 for further information.  As a result of the MSA with Hughes, we are no longer marketing dishNET satellite broadband services provided on a wholesale basis by Hughes, and our Broadband subscriber count related to the Hughes service will decline through customer attrition. 

As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange with EchoStar, described below, we also design, develop and distribute receiver systems and provide digital broadcast operations, including satellite uplinking/downlinking, transmission and other services to third-party pay-TV providers.  See Note 2 and Note 12 for further information.

Wireless

Since 2008, we have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets and made over $10 billion in non-controlling investments in certain entities, for a total of over $21 billion, as described further below.

DISH Network Spectrum

We have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.  Most recently, the broadcast incentive auction in the 600 MHz frequency range (“Auction 1000”) began on March 29, 2016 and concluded on March 30, 2017.  On April 13, 2017, the FCC announced that ParkerB.com Wireless L.L.C. (“ParkerB.com”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network, was the winning bidder for 486 wireless spectrum licenses (the “600 MHz Licenses”) with aggregate winning bids totaling approximately $6.211 billion.  On April 27, 2017, ParkerB.com filed an application with the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  On July 1, 2016, we paid $1.5 billion to the FCC as a deposit for Auction 1000.  On May 11, 2017, we paid the remaining balance of our winning bids of approximately $4.711 billion.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.

These wireless spectrum licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  We will need to make significant additional investments or partner with others to, among other things, commercialize, build-out, and integrate these licenses and related assets, and any additional acquired licenses and related assets; and comply with regulations applicable to such licenses.  Depending on the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, and regulatory compliance, any such investments or partnerships could vary significantly.  In addition, as we consider our options for the commercialization of our wireless spectrum, we will incur significant additional expenses and will have to make significant investments related to, among other things, research and development, wireless testing and wireless network infrastructure.  In March 2017, we notified the FCC that we plan to deploy a next-generation 5G-capable network, focused on supporting narrowband Internet of Things (“IoT”).  The first phase of the network deployment will be completed by March 2020, with subsequent phases to be completed thereafter.  We may also determine that additional wireless spectrum licenses may be required to commercialize our wireless business and to compete with other wireless service providers. 

See Note 10 for further information.

DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses

Through our wholly-owned subsidiaries American AWS-3 Wireless II L.L.C. (“American II”) and American AWS-3 Wireless III L.L.C. (“American III”), we have made over $10 billion in certain non-controlling investments in Northstar Spectrum, LLC (“Northstar Spectrum”), the parent company of Northstar Wireless, LLC (“Northstar Wireless,” and collectively with Northstar Spectrum, the “Northstar Entities”), and in SNR Wireless HoldCo, LLC (“SNR HoldCo”), the parent company of SNR Wireless LicenseCo, LLC (“SNR Wireless,” and collectively with SNR HoldCo, the “SNR Entities”), respectively.  On October 27, 2015, the FCC granted certain AWS-3 wireless spectrum licenses (the “AWS-3 Licenses”) to Northstar Wireless and to SNR Wireless, respectively, which are recorded in “FCC authorizations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in Accounting Standards Codification 810, Consolidation (“ASC 810”), Northstar Spectrum and SNR HoldCo are considered variable interest entities and, based on the characteristics of the structure of these entities and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate these entities into our financial statements.  See Note 2 for further information.

The AWS-3 Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  We may need to make significant additional loans to the Northstar Entities and to the SNR Entities, or they may need to partner with others, so that the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities may commercialize, build-out and integrate these AWS-3 Licenses, comply with regulations applicable to such AWS-3 Licenses, and make any potential payments related to the re-auction of AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC.  Depending upon the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, regulatory compliance, and potential re-auction payments, any such loans or partnerships could vary significantly.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain a profitable return on our non-controlling investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities.  See Note 10 for further information.

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

2.Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information.  Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and notes required for complete financial statements prepared under GAAP.  In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Our results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.  For further information, refer to the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.  Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Principles of Consolidation

We consolidate all majority owned subsidiaries, investments in entities in which we have controlling influence and variable interest entities where we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary.  Minority interests are recorded as noncontrolling interests or redeemable noncontrolling interests.  See below for further information.  Non-consolidated investments are accounted for using the equity method when we have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of the investee.  When we do not have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of an investee, the cost method is used.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. 

On February 28, 2017, we and EchoStar and certain of our respective subsidiaries completed the transactions contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”) that was previously entered into on January 31, 2017 (the “Share Exchange”).  Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, among other things, EchoStar transferred to us certain assets and liabilities of the EchoStar technologies and EchoStar broadcasting businesses, consisting primarily of the businesses that design, develop and distribute digital set-top boxes, provide satellite uplinking services and develop and support streaming video technology, as well as certain investments in joint ventures, spectrum licenses, real estate properties and EchoStar’s ten percent non-voting interest in Sling TV Holding L.L.C. (the “Transferred Businesses”), and in exchange, we transferred to EchoStar the 6,290,499 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by EchoStar (the “EchoStar Tracking Stock”) and 81.128 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation, a subsidiary of EchoStar (“HSSC”) (the “HSSC Tracking Stock,” and together with the EchoStar Tracking Stock, collectively, the “Tracking Stock”), that tracked the residential retail satellite broadband business of HNS.  In connection with the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar and certain of their subsidiaries entered into certain agreements covering, among other things, tax matters, employee matters, intellectual property matters and the provision of transitional services.  See Note 12 for further information.

As the Share Exchange was a transaction between entities that are under common control, accounting rules require that our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of the Transferred Businesses for all periods presented, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange.  We initially recorded the Transferred Businesses at EchoStar’s historical cost basis.  The difference between the historical cost basis of the Transferred Businesses and the net carrying value of the Tracking Stock is recorded in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The results of the Transferred Businesses were prepared from separate records maintained by EchoStar for the periods prior to March 1, 2017, and may not necessarily be indicative of the conditions that would have existed, or the results of operations, if the Transferred Businesses had been operated on a combined basis with our subsidiaries.  The primary impacts to our financial statement presentation are as follows:

· Our investments in the EchoStar Tracking Stock and HSSC Tracking Stock are no longer included in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

· The assets and liabilities of the Transferred Businesses are recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the results of operations of the Transferred Businesses, including sales of set-top boxes to third parties, are recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

· Sling TV Holding L.L.C., in which EchoStar held a 10% non-voting interest prior to the Share Exchange, is accounted for as though it was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network.

· Intercompany transactions between the Transferred Businesses and us, including, among others, the sale of set-top boxes and broadcast services from EchoStar to us, have been eliminated to the extent possible, including the margin EchoStar received on those sales.

Our subsequent annual and quarterly financial statements will include the results of the Transferred Businesses as described above for all periods presented in those financial statements, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange.  The table below includes unaudited supplemental pro forma information for revenue and net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) as if the results of the Transferred Businesses were included for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2016, respectively:  

		DISH Network   (as previously reported)		Adjustments Relating to the Transferred Businesses		DISH Network (as currently reported)
				(In thousands)
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	3,837,036	$	27,555	$	3,864,591
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	410,464	$	13,639	$	424,103
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	7,624,271	$	67,794	$	7,692,065
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	799,754	$	24,240	$	823,994
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016:
Total revenue	$	15,094,562	$	117,740	$	15,212,302
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	1,449,853	$	48,086	$	1,497,939

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Northstar Wireless.  Northstar Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northstar Spectrum, which is an entity owned by Northstar Manager, LLC (“Northstar Manager”) and us.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, Northstar Spectrum is considered a variable interest entity and, based on the characteristics of the structure of this entity and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate Northstar Spectrum into our financial statements.  After the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless (and in certain circumstances, prior to the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless), Northstar Manager has the ability, but not the obligation, to require Northstar Spectrum to purchase Northstar Manager’s ownership interests in Northstar Spectrum (the “Northstar Put Right”) for a purchase price that generally equals its equity contribution to Northstar Spectrum plus a fixed annual rate of return.  In the event that the Northstar Put Right is exercised by Northstar Manager, the consummation of the sale will be subject to FCC approval.  Northstar Spectrum does not have a call right with respect to Northstar Manager’s ownership interests in Northstar Spectrum.  Although Northstar Manager is the sole manager of Northstar Spectrum, Northstar Manager’s ownership interest is considered temporary equity under the applicable accounting guidance and is thus recorded as part of “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in the mezzanine section of our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Northstar Manager’s ownership interest in Northstar Spectrum was initially accounted for at fair value.  Subsequently, Northstar Manager’s ownership interest in Northstar Spectrum is increased by the fixed annual rate of return through “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The operating results of Northstar Spectrum attributable to Northstar Manager are recorded as “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  See Note 10 for further information.

SNR Wireless.  SNR Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNR HoldCo, which is an entity owned by SNR Wireless Management, LLC (“SNR Management”) and us.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, SNR HoldCo is considered a variable interest entity and, based on the characteristics of the structure of this entity and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate SNR HoldCo into our financial statements.  After the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to SNR Wireless (and in certain circumstances, prior to the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to SNR Wireless), SNR Management has the ability, but not the obligation, to require SNR HoldCo to purchase SNR Management’s ownership interests in SNR HoldCo (the “SNR Put Right”) for a purchase price that generally equals its equity contribution to SNR HoldCo plus a fixed annual rate of return.  In the event that the SNR Put Right is exercised by SNR Management, the consummation of the sale will be subject to FCC approval.  SNR HoldCo does not have a call right with respect to SNR Management’s ownership interests in SNR HoldCo.  Although SNR Management is the sole manager of SNR HoldCo, SNR Management’s ownership interest is considered temporary equity under the applicable accounting guidance and is thus recorded as part of “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in the mezzanine section of our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  SNR Management’s ownership interest in SNR HoldCo was initially accounted for at fair value.  Subsequently, SNR Management’s ownership interest in SNR HoldCo is increased by the fixed annual rate of return through “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The operating results of SNR HoldCo attributable to SNR Management are recorded as “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  See Note 10 for further information.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense for each reporting period.  Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, allowances for doubtful accounts, self-insurance obligations, deferred taxes and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, loss contingencies, fair value of financial instruments, fair value of options granted under our stock-based compensation plans, fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, fair value of multi-element arrangements, capital leases, asset impairments, estimates of future cash flows used to evaluate impairments, useful lives of property, equipment and intangible assets, independent third-party retailer incentives, programming expenses and subscriber lives.  Economic conditions may increase the inherent uncertainty in the estimates and assumptions indicated above.  Actual results may differ from previously estimated amounts, and such differences may be material to our condensed consolidated financial statements.  Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected prospectively in the period they occur.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at amortized cost less impairment losses, if any.  The costs of satellites under construction, including interest and certain amounts prepaid under our satellite service agreements, are capitalized during the construction phase, assuming the eventual successful launch and in-orbit operation of the satellite.  If a satellite were to fail during launch or while in-orbit, the resultant loss would be charged to expense in the period such loss was incurred.  The amount of any such loss would be reduced to the extent of insurance proceeds estimated to be received, if any.  Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over useful lives ranging from one to 40 years.  Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense when incurred.  Renewals and improvements that add value or extend the asset’s useful life are capitalized.  Costs related to the procurement and development of software for internal-use are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software.

Cost of Sales – Equipment and Other

Costs include the cost of non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories and the cost of sales of digital receivers and related components to third-party pay-TV providers, both of which include freight and royalties.  Costs are generally recognized as products are delivered to customers and the related revenue is recognized. 

Capitalized Interest

We capitalize interest associated with the acquisition or construction of certain assets, including, among other things, satellites and wireless spectrum licenses.  Capitalization of interest begins when, among other things, steps are taken to prepare the asset for its intended use and ceases when the asset is ready for its intended use or when these activities are substantially suspended.

We are currently preparing for the commercialization of our AWS-4, H Block and 600 MHz wireless spectrum licenses, and interest expense related to their carrying amount is being capitalized.  In addition, on October 27, 2015, the FCC granted certain AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless and to SNR Wireless, respectively, in which we have made certain non-controlling investments.  Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless are preparing for the commercialization of their AWS-3 Licenses and began capitalizing interest related to those AWS-3 Licenses as of October 27, 2015.  We are preparing for the commercialization of our 600 MHz Licenses and began capitalizing interest related to these licenses as of June 14, 2017.  As the carrying amount of these licenses now exceeds the carrying value of our long-term debt, materially all of our interest expense is being capitalized as of June 14, 2017.

Fair Value Measurements

We determine fair value based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  Market or observable inputs are the preferred source of values, followed by unobservable inputs or assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs.  We apply the following hierarchy in determining fair value:

· Level 1, defined as observable inputs being quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;

· Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and derivative financial instruments indexed to marketable investment securities; and

· Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other participants therefore requiring assumptions based on the best information available.

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts) and current liabilities (excluding the “Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations”) is equal to or approximates fair value due to their short-term nature or proximity to current market rates.  See Note 6 for the fair value of our marketable investment securities and derivative financial instruments.

Fair values for our publicly traded debt securities are based on quoted market prices, when available.  The fair values of private debt are based on, among other things, available trade information, and/or an analysis in which we evaluate market conditions, related securities, various public and private offerings, and other publicly available information.  In performing this analysis, we make various assumptions regarding, among other things, credit spreads, and the impact of these factors on the value of the debt securities.  See Note 9 for the fair value of our long-term debt.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue when an arrangement exists, prices are determinable, collectability is reasonably assured and the goods or services have been delivered.

Revenue from our Pay-TV services is recognized when programming is broadcast to subscribers.  We recognize revenue from our broadband services when the service is provided.  Payments received from Pay-TV and Broadband subscribers in advance of the broadcast or service period are recorded as “Deferred revenue and other” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets until earned.  Revenue from equipment sales generally is recognized upon shipment to customers. 

For certain of our promotions, subscribers are charged an upfront fee.  A portion of these fees may be deferred and recognized over the estimated subscriber life for new subscribers or the estimated remaining life for existing subscribers ranging from four to five years.  Revenue from advertising sales is recognized when the related services are performed.

Subscriber fees for DISH branded pay-TV equipment rental fees and other hardware related fees, including fees for DVRs, fees for broadband equipment and additional outlet fees, advertising services and fees earned from our in-home service operations are recognized as revenue as earned.  Generally, revenue from equipment sales, equipment upgrades and sales of streaming-capable devices for our Sling branded pay-TV services are recognized upon shipment to customers. 

Certain of our existing and new subscriber promotions include programming discounts.  Programming revenues are recorded as earned at the discounted monthly rate charged to the subscriber.

We offer our customers the opportunity to download movies for a specific viewing period or permanently purchase a movie from our website.  We recognize revenue when the movie is successfully downloaded by the customer, which, based on our current technology, occurs at the time the customer plays the movie for the first time.

Research and Development

Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.  Research and development costs totaled $9 million and $12 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  Research and development costs totaled $16 million and $24 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

New Accounting Pronouncements

Revenue from Contracts with Customers.  On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2014-09”), and has modified the standard thereafter.  On July 9, 2015, the FASB approved a one year deferral on the effective date for implementation of this standard, which changed the effective date for us to January 1, 2018. This converged standard on revenue recognition was issued jointly with the International Accounting Standards Board to create common revenue recognition guidance for GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards.  ASU 2014-09 provides a framework for revenue recognition that replaces most existing GAAP revenue recognition guidance when it becomes effective.  ASU 2014-09 allows for either a full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption.  We are evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.  We have not yet selected an adoption method.  While we have not determined the effect of the standard on our ongoing financial reporting, we believe that the standard will, among other things, change the allocation and timing of when revenue is recognized for those customers who have a contractual commitment to receive service for a minimum term, including time-limited discounts or free service periods.  Under current accounting rules, we recognize revenue net of discounts during the promotional periods and do not recognize any revenue during free service periods.  Under ASU 2014-09, revenue recognition will be accelerated for these contracts as the impact of discounts or free service periods that are considered performance obligations will be recognized uniformly over the total contractual period.  In addition, the standard will require that incremental costs to obtain a customer, which represent a significant portion of our non-advertising subscriber acquisition costs, be deferred and recognized over the expected customer life, whereas our current policy is to expense these costs as incurred.  As the new standard will impact revenue and cost recognition for a significant number of our contracts, as well as our business processes and information technology systems, our evaluation of the effect of the new standard is ongoing.  We are currently in the process of identifying and implementing changes to our systems, processes, and internal controls to meet the requirements of the standard.  The ultimate impact of adopting ASU 2014-09 for both revenue recognition and costs to obtain and fulfill contracts will depend on the promotions and offers in placeduring the period leading up to and after the adoptionof ASU 2014-09.

Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. On January 5, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”),  which amends certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments.  This amendment requires all equity investments to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income (other than those accounted for under equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee).  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-01 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Leases.    On February 25, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 Leases (“ASU 2016-02”), which relates to the accounting of leasing transactions.  This standard requires a lessee to record on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by leases with lease terms of more than 12 months.  In addition, this standard requires both lessees and lessors to disclose certain key information about lease transactions.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Financial Instruments – Credit Losses.On June 16, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments – Credit Losses, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”), which changes the way entities measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net earnings.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

Statement of Cash Flows - Update.On August 26, 2016, the FASB issued 2016-15 Statement of Cash Flows: Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (“ASU 2016-15”).  This update consists of eight provisions that provide guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments.  If practicable, this update should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented.  For the provisions that are impracticable to apply retrospectively, those provisions may be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable.  This update will become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-15 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Statement of Cash Flows:  Restricted Cash.  On November 17, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18 Restricted Cash (“ASU 2016-18”),  which addresses the diversity where changes in restricted cash are classified on the cash flow statement.  ASU 2016-18 requires that changes in restricted cash and cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts on the statement of cash flows.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We expect that the adoption of ASU 2016-18 will have an immaterial impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

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Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share

Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share

3.Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share

We present both basic earnings per share (“EPS”) and diluted EPS.  Basic EPS excludes potential dilution and is computed by dividing “Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network” by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period.  Diluted EPS reflects the potential dilution that could occur if stock awards were exercised and if our Convertible Notes due 2026 issued August 8, 2016 and our Convertible Notes due 2024 issued March 17, 2017 were converted.  The potential dilution from stock awards is accounted for using the treasury stock method based on the average market value of our Class A common stock.  The potential dilution from conversion of the Convertible Notes is accounted for using the if-converted method, which requires that all of the shares of our Class A common stock issuable upon conversion of the Convertible Notes will be included in the calculation of diluted EPS assuming conversion of the Convertible Notes at the beginning of the reporting period (or at time of issuance, if later).  The following table presents EPS amounts for all periods and the basic and diluted weighted-average shares outstanding used in the calculation.

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net income (loss)	$	58,762	$	438,062	$	448,837	$	850,006
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax		18,646		13,959		33,006		26,012
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network - Basic		40,116		424,103		415,831		823,994
Interest on dilutive Convertible Notes, net of tax		—		—		30,125		—
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network - Diluted	$	40,116	$	424,103	$	445,956	$	823,994
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock:
Basic		466,019		464,803		465,717		464,589
Dilutive impact of Convertible Notes		—		—		53,152		—
Dilutive impact of stock awards outstanding		916		837		992		840
Diluted		466,935		465,640		519,861		465,429
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.89	$	1.77
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.86	$	1.77

Certain stock awards to acquire our Class A common stock are not included in the weighted-average common shares outstanding above, as their effect is anti-dilutive.  For the three months ended June 30, 2017, the effect of the Convertible Notes is excluded from the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network, as the effect is anti-dilutive.  In addition, vesting of performance based options and rights to acquire shares of our Class A common stock granted pursuant to our performance based stock incentive plans (“Restricted Performance Units”) are both contingent upon meeting certain goals, some of which are not yet probable of being achieved.  Furthermore, the warrants that we issued to certain option counterparties in connection with the Convertible Notes due 2026 are only exercisable at their expiration if the market price per share of our Class A common stock is greater than the strike price of the warrants, which is approximately $86.08 per share, subject to adjustments.  As a consequence, the following are not included in the diluted EPS calculation.

	As of June 30,
	2017	2016
	(In thousands)
Anti-dilutive stock awards	1,536	1,826
Performance based options (1)	6,896	4,379
Restricted Performance Units	1,281	1,370
Common stock warrants	46,029	—
Total	55,742	7,575

(1) The increase in performance based options as of June 30, 2017 primarily resulted from the issuance of stock option awards as of January 1, 2017 under a long-term, performance-based stock incentive plan adopted on December 2, 2016 (the “2017 LTIP”).

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Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows

Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows

4.Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows

The following table presents our supplemental cash flow and other non-cash data.

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest)	$	496,644	$	414,130
Cash received for interest		4,760		9,478
Cash paid for income taxes (1)		20,427		211,529
Capitalized interest (2)		488,123		382,458
Initial equity component of the 2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024, net of deferred taxes of $91,485 (3)		160,896		—
Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock		23,134		24,984
Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations		—		7,510

(1) As a result of, among other things, the FCC granting our application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses and less estimated taxable income during 2017, cash paid for income taxes is expected to be significantly lower than in prior periods.

(2) See Note 2 for further information.

(3) See Note 9 for further information.

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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

5.Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table presents the tax effect on each component of “Other comprehensive income (loss).”

	For the Three Months Ended June 30,
	2017						2016
	Before		Tax		Net		Before		Tax		Net
	Tax		(Expense)		of Tax		Tax		(Expense)		of Tax
	Amount		Benefit		Amount		Amount		Benefit		Amount
	(In thousands)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	639	$	—	$	639	$	—	$	—	$	—
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities		801		(290)		511		2,497		(916)		1,581
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)		(630)		228		(402)		(28,953)		10,155		(18,798)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	810	$	(62)	$	748	$	(26,456)	$	9,239	$	(17,217)

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	2017						2016
	Before		Tax		Net		Before		Tax		Net
	Tax		(Expense)		of Tax		Tax		(Expense)		of Tax
	Amount		Benefit		Amount		Amount		Benefit (1)		Amount
	(In thousands)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	846	$	—	$	846	$	—	$	—	$	—
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities		6,965		(2,559)		4,406		(104)		38		(66)
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)		(634)		233		(401)		(93,643)		34,118		(59,525)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	7,177	$	(2,326)	$	4,851	$	(93,747)	$	34,156	$	(59,591)

The “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” is detailed in the following table, net of tax.

		Foreign		Unrealized/
		Currency		Recognized
		Translation		Gains
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Adjustment		(Losses)	Total
	(In thousands)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	—	$	781	$	781
Foreign currency translation adjustments		846		—		846
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification		—		4,406		4,406
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		—		(401)		(401)
Balance as of June 30, 2017	$	846	$	4,786	$	5,632

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Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities

Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities

6.Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities

Our marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities consisted of the following:

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Marketable investment securities:
Current marketable investment securities - strategic	$	12,763	$	6,721
Current marketable investment securities - other		7,797		28,895
Total current marketable investment securities		20,560		35,616
Restricted marketable investment securities (1)		81,277		81,679
Total marketable investment securities		101,837		117,295
Restricted cash and cash equivalents (1)		156		681
Other investment securities:
Other investment securities - equity method		111,600		25,098
Other investment securities - cost method		8,150		8,150
Total other investment securities		119,750		33,248
Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities	$	221,743	$	151,224

(1) Restricted marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents are included in “Restricted cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Marketable Investment Securities

Our marketable investment securities portfolio consists of various debt and equity instruments, all of which are classified as available-for-sale, except as specified below.  See Note 2 for further information. 

Current Marketable Investment Securities –  Strategic

Our current strategic marketable investment securities portfolio includes and may include strategic and financial debt and equity investments in private and public companies that are highly speculative and have experienced and continue to experience volatility.  As of June 30, 2017, this portfolio consisted of securities of a small number of issuers, and as a result the value of that portfolio depends, among other things, on the performance of those issuers.  The fair value of certain of the debt and equity securities in this portfolio can be adversely impacted by, among other things, the issuers’ respective performance and ability to obtain any necessary additional financing on acceptable terms, or at all.

Current Marketable Investment Securities - Other

Our current marketable investment securities portfolio includes investments in various debt instruments including, among others, commercial paper, corporate securities and U.S. treasury and/or agency securities.

Commercial paper consists mainly of unsecured short-term, promissory notes issued primarily by corporations with maturities ranging up to 365 days.  Corporate securities consist of debt instruments issued by corporations with various maturities normally less than 18 months.  U. S. Treasury and agency securities consist of debt instruments issued by the federal government and other government agencies. 

Restricted Cash, Cash Equivalents and Marketable Investment Securities

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our restricted marketable investment securities, together with our restricted cash and cash equivalents, included amounts required as collateral for our letters of credit.

Other Investment Securities

We have strategic investments in certain debt and equity securities that are included in noncurrent “Other investment securities” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and accounted for using the cost, equity and/or available-for-sale methods of accounting.  Certain of our equity method investments are detailed below.

NagraStar L.L.C.  As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, we own a 50% interest in NagraStar L.L.C. (“NagraStar”), a joint venture that is our primary provider of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only authorized customers have access to our programming. 

Invidi Technologies Corporation.  In November 2016, we, DIRECTV, LLC, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of AT&T Inc., and Cavendish Square Holding B.V., an affiliate of WPP plc, entered into a series of agreements to acquire Invidi Technologies Corporation (“Invidi”), an entity that provides proprietary software for the addressable advertising market.  The transaction closed in January 2017. 

Our ability to realize value from our strategic investments in securities that are not publicly traded depends on the success of the issuers’ businesses and their ability to obtain sufficient capital, on acceptable terms or at all, and to execute their business plans.  Because private markets are not as liquid as public markets, there is also increased risk that we will not be able to sell these investments, or that when we desire to sell them we will not be able to obtain fair value for them.

Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had accumulated net unrealized gains of $8 million and $1 million, respectively.  These amounts, net of related tax effect, were $5 million and $1 million, respectively.  All of these amounts are included in “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)” within “Total stockholders’ equity (deficit).”  The components of our available-for-sale investments are summarized in the table below.

	As of June 30, 2017								As of December 31, 2016
	Marketable								Marketable
	Investment		Unrealized						Investment		Unrealized
	Securities		Gains		Losses		Net		Securities		Gains		Losses		Net
	(In thousands)
Debt securities (including restricted):
U.S. Treasury and agency securities	$	81,724	$	—	$	(180)	$	(180)	$	81,982	$	13	$	(132)	$	(119)
Corporate securities		19,606		7,728		(4)		7,724		33,555		1,327		—		1,327
Other		507		60		(11)		49		1,758		64		(11)		53
Total	$	101,837	$	7,788	$	(195)	$	7,593	$	117,295	$	1,404	$	(143)	$	1,261

As of June 30, 2017, restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities included debt securities of $75 million with contractual maturities within one year and $27 million with contractual maturities extending longer than one year through and including five years.  Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities as a result of our ability to sell these securities prior to maturity.

Marketable Investment Securities in a Loss Position

The following table reflects the length of time that the individual securities, accounted for as available-for-sale, have been in an unrealized loss position, aggregated by investment category.  As of June 30, 2017, the unrealized losses related to our investments in debt securities primarily represented investments in U.S. treasury and agency securities, corporate securities and other.  We have the ability to hold and do not intend to sell our investments in these debt securities before they recover or mature, and it is more likely than not that we will hold these investments until that time.  In addition, we are not aware of any specific factors indicating that the underlying issuers of these debt securities would not be able to pay interest as it becomes due or repay the principal at maturity.  Therefore, we believe that these changes in the estimated fair values of these marketable investment securities are related to temporary market fluctuations.

	As of
	June 30, 2017				December 31, 2016
	Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
	Value		Loss		Value		Loss
	(In thousands)
Debt Securities:
Less than 12 months	$	55,538	$	(158)	$	52,011	$	(132)
12 months or more		24,580		(37)		1,537		(11)
Total	$	80,118	$	(195)	$	53,548	$	(143)

Fair Value Measurements

Our investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows:

	As of
	June 30, 2017								December 31, 2016
	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(In thousands)
Cash equivalents (including restricted)	$	2,302,508	$	109,313	$	2,193,195	$	—	$	5,187,900	$	147,494	$	5,040,406	$	—
Debt securities (including restricted):
U.S. Treasury and agency securities	$	81,724	$	81,724	$	—	$	—	$	81,982	$	81,982	$	—	$	—
Corporate securities		19,606		—		7,030		12,576		33,555		—		27,025		6,530
Other		507		—		320		187		1,758		—		1,567		191
Total	$	101,837	$	81,724	$	7,350	$	12,763	$	117,295	$	81,982	$	28,592	$	6,721

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our Level 3 investments consisted predominately of corporate securities.  On a quarterly basis we evaluate the reasonableness of significant unobservable inputs used in those measurements.  For our Level 3 investments, we evaluate, among other things, the terms of the underlying instruments, the credit ratings of the issuers, current market conditions, and other relevant factors.  Based on these factors, we assess the risk of realizing expected cash flows and we apply an observable discount rate that reflects this risk.  We may also reduce our valuations to reflect a liquidity discount based on the lack of an active market for these securities.

Changes in Level 3 instruments were as follows:

	Level 3
	Investment
	Securities
	(In thousands)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	6,721
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings		—
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)		6,423
Purchases		—
Sales		(290)
Settlements		(91)
Issuances		—
Transfers into or out of Level 3		—
Balance as of June 30, 2017	$	12,763

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, we had no transfers in or out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements.

Gains and Losses on Sales and Changes in Carrying Amounts of Investments

“Other, net” within “Other Income (Expense)” included on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) is as follows:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
Other Income (Expense):	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Marketable investment securities - gains (losses) on sales/exchanges	$	2,487	$	29,868	$	4,759	$	108,521
Derivative financial instruments - net realized and/or unrealized gains (losses)		—		17,078		—		5,405
Marketable investment securities - other-than-temporary impairments		—		(914)		—		(914)
Other		680		(656)		3,153		(719)
Total	$	3,167	$	45,376	$	7,912	$	112,293

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Inventory

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Inventory

Inventory

7.Inventory

Inventory consisted of the following:

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
		(In thousands)
Finished goods	$	247,289	$	282,569
Work-in-process and service repairs		117,593		129,512
Raw materials		8,794		10,268
Total inventory	$	373,676	$	422,349

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Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets

Property and Equipment

8.Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following:

	Depreciable			As of
	Life			June 30,		December 31,
	(In Years)			2017		2016
				(In thousands)
Equipment leased to customers	2	-	5	$	2,505,046	$	2,720,695
EchoStar XV			15		277,658		277,658
EchoStar XVIII			15		411,255		411,255
D1		N/A			55,000		55,000
T1			15		401,721		401,721
Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements	10	-	15		499,819		499,819
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other	1	-	10		1,728,578		1,639,051
Buildings and improvements	1	-	40		291,476		288,992
Land			—		14,057		14,057
Construction in progress			—		60,747		88,235
Total property and equipment					6,245,357		6,396,483
Accumulated depreciation					(3,797,412)		(3,742,212)
Property and equipment, net				$	2,447,945	$	2,654,271

Depreciation and amortization expense consisted of the following:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Equipment leased to customers	$	145,603	$	181,431	$	281,737	$	348,611
Satellites		29,414		21,957		58,426		43,913
Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other		36,654		36,197		76,138		74,627
Total depreciation and amortization	$	211,671	$	239,585	$	416,301	$	467,151

Cost of sales and operating expense categories included in our accompanying Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) do not include depreciation expense related to satellites or equipment leased to customers.

Pay-TV Satellites.  We currently utilize 13 satellites in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator, two of which we own and depreciate over their estimated useful life.  We currently utilize certain capacity on nine satellites that we lease from EchoStar, which are accounted for as operating leases.  We also lease two satellites from third parties, which are accounted for as capital leases and are depreciated over the shorter of the economic life or the term of the satellite agreement.

As of June 30, 2017, our pay-TV satellite fleet consisted of the following:

			Estimated
			Useful Life
		Degree	(Years)/Lease
	Launch	Orbital	Termination
Satellites	Date	Location	Date
Owned:
EchoStar XV	July 2010	61.5	15
EchoStar XVIII	June 2016	61.5	15
Leased from EchoStar (1):
EchoStar VII (2)	February 2002	119	June 2018
EchoStar IX	August 2003	121	Month to month
EchoStar X (2)	February 2006	110	February 2021
EchoStar XI (2)	July 2008	110	September 2021
EchoStar XII	July 2003	61.5	September 2017
EchoStar XIV (2)	March 2010	119	February 2023
EchoStar XVI (3)	November 2012	61.5	January 2023
Nimiq 5	September 2009	72.7	September 2019
QuetzSat-1	September 2011	77	November 2021
Leased from Other Third Party:
Anik F3	April 2007	118.7	April 2022
Ciel II	December 2008	129	January 2019

(1) See Note 12 for further information on our Related Party Transactions with EchoStar.

(2) We generally have the option to renew each lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the useful life of the respective satellite. 

(3) We have the option to renew this lease for an additional five-year period.

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Long-Term Debt

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Long-Term Debt

Long-Term Debt

9.Long-Term Debt

Fair Value of our Long-Term Debt

The following table summarizes the carrying amount and fair value of our debt facilities as of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016:

	As of
	June 30, 2017				December 31, 2016
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
	(In thousands)
4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017 (1)	$	900,000	$	902,016	$	900,000	$	913,887
4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 (2)		1,200,000		1,215,768		1,200,000		1,228,464
7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019		1,400,000		1,542,282		1,400,000		1,559,698
5 1/8% Senior Notes due 2020		1,100,000		1,152,580		1,100,000		1,141,866
6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021		2,000,000		2,223,020		2,000,000		2,178,880
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022		2,000,000		2,155,060		2,000,000		2,114,780
5% Senior Notes due 2023		1,500,000		1,543,725		1,500,000		1,500,315
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2024		2,000,000		2,135,280		2,000,000		2,064,000
2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024		1,000,000		1,052,950		—		—
7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2026		2,000,000		2,369,240		2,000,000		2,270,900
3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026		3,000,000		3,628,530		3,000,000		3,431,130
Other notes payable		46,809		46,809		47,844		47,844
Subtotal		18,146,809	$	19,967,260		17,147,844	$	18,451,764
Unamortized debt discount on the Convertible Notes		(968,738)				(752,386)
Unamortized deferred financing costs and other debt discounts, net		(51,830)				(52,704)
Capital lease obligations (3)		121,787				140,885
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)	$	17,248,028			$	16,483,639

(1) On July 17, 2017, we redeemed the principal balance of our 4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017.

(2) Our 4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 mature on April 1, 2018 and have been reclassified to “Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2017.

(3) Disclosure regarding fair value of capital leases is not required.

We estimated the fair value of our publicly traded long-term debt using market prices in less active markets (Level 2).

2  3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024

On March 17, 2017, we issued $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes due March 15, 2024 in a private placement.  Interest accrues at an annual rate of 2 3/8% and is payable semi-annually in cash, in arrears on March 15 and September 15 of each year, commencing September 15, 2017.

The Convertible Notes due 2024 are:

· our general unsecured obligations;

· ranked senior in right of payment to any future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Convertible Notes due 2024;

· ranked equally in right of payment with all of our existing and future unsecured senior indebtedness;

· ranked effectively junior to any of our existing and future secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness;

· ranked structurally junior to all indebtedness and other liabilities of our subsidiaries; and

· not guaranteed by our subsidiaries.

We may not redeem the Convertible Notes due 2024 prior to the maturity date.  If a “fundamental change” (as defined in the related indenture) occurs prior to the maturity date of the Convertible Notes due 2024, holders may require us to repurchase for cash all or part of their Convertible Notes due 2024 at a repurchase price equal to 100% of the principal amount of such Convertible Notes due 2024, plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but not including, the fundamental change repurchase date.

The indenture related to the Convertible Notes due 2024 does not contain any financial covenants and does not restrict us from paying dividends, issuing or repurchasing our other securities, issuing new debt (including secured debt) or repaying or repurchasing our debt.

Subject to the terms of the related indenture, the Convertible Notes due 2024 may be converted at an initial conversion rate of 12.1630 shares of our Class A common stock per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes due 2024 (equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $82.22 per share of our Class A common stock) (the “Initial Conversion Rate”), at any time on or after October 15, 2023 through the second scheduled trading day preceding the maturity date.  Holders of the Convertible Notes due 2024 will also have the right to convert the Convertible Notes due 2024 at the Initial Conversion Rate prior to October 15, 2023, but only upon the occurrence of specified events described in the related indenture.  The conversion rate is subject to anti-dilution adjustments if certain events occur.

In accordance with accounting guidance on embedded conversion features, we valued and bifurcated the conversion option associated with the Convertible Notes due 2024 (the “equity component”) from the host debt instrument.  The $252 million initial value of the equity component on the Convertible Notes due 2024 was recorded in “Additional paid-in capital” within “Stockholders’ equity (deficit)” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets with the offset being recorded as the debt discount.  The resulting debt discount on the Convertible Notes due 2024 is being amortized to interest expense at an effective interest rate of 7% over the seven-year term of the Convertible Notes due 2024.  This interest expense was recorded in “Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized” within “Other Income (Expense)” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). 

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Commitments and Contingencies

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

10.Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments

Since 2008, we have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets and made over $10 billion in non-controlling investments in certain entities, for a total of over $21 billion, as described further below.

DISH Network Spectrum

We have directly invested over $11 billion to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.

700 MHz Licenses.  In 2008, we paid $712 million to acquire certain 700 MHz E Block (“700 MHz”) wireless spectrum licenses, which were granted to us by the FCC in February 2009.  These licenses are subject to certain build-out requirements.  By March 2020, we must provide signal coverage and offer service to at least 70% of the population in each of our E Block license areas (the “700 MHz Build-Out Requirement”).  If the 700 MHz Build-Out Requirement is not met with respect to any particular E Block license area, our authorization may terminate for the geographic portion of that license area in which we are not providing service. 

AWS-4 Licenses.  On March 2, 2012, the FCC approved the transfer of 40 MHz of wireless spectrum licenses held by DBSD North America, Inc. (“DBSD North America”) and TerreStar Networks, Inc. (“TerreStar”) to us.  On March 9, 2012, we completed the acquisition of 100% of the equity of reorganized DBSD North America (the “DBSD Transaction”) and substantially all of the assets of TerreStar (the “TerreStar Transaction”), pursuant to which we acquired, among other things, certain satellite assets and wireless spectrum licenses held by DBSD North America and TerreStar.  The total consideration to acquire the DBSD North America and TerreStar assets was approximately $2.860 billion.

On February 15, 2013, the FCC issued an order, which became effective on March 7, 2013, modifying our licenses to expand our terrestrial operating authority with AWS-4 authority (“AWS-4”).  These licenses are subject to certain build-out requirements.  By March 2020, we are required to provide terrestrial signal coverage and offer terrestrial service to at least 70% of the population in each area covered by an individual license (the “AWS-4 Build-Out Requirement”).  If the AWS-4 Build-Out Requirement is not met with respect to any particular individual license, our terrestrial authorization for that license area may terminate.  The FCC’s December 20, 2013 order also conditionally waived certain FCC rules for our AWS-4 licenses to allow us to repurpose all 20 MHz of our uplink spectrum (2000-2020 MHz) for terrestrial downlink operations.  On June 1, 2016, we notified the FCC that we had elected to use our AWS-4 uplink spectrum for terrestrial downlink operations, and effective June 7, 2016, the FCC modified our AWS-4 licenses, resulting in all 40 MHz of our AWS-4 spectrum being designated for terrestrial downlink operations.

H Block Licenses.  On April 29, 2014, the FCC issued an order granting our application to acquire all 176 wireless spectrum licenses in the H Block auction.  We paid approximately $1.672 billion to acquire these H Block licenses, including clearance costs associated with the lower H Block spectrum.  The H Block licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  By April 2018, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 40% of the population in each area covered by an individual H Block license (the “H Block Interim Build-Out Requirement”).  By April 2024, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 75% of the population in each area covered by an individual H Block license (the “H Block Final Build-Out Requirement”).  If the H Block Interim Build-Out Requirement is not met, the H Block license term and the H Block Final Build-Out Requirement may be accelerated by two years (from April 2024 to April 2022) for each H Block license area in which we do not meet the requirement.  If the H Block Final Build-Out Requirement is not met, our authorization for each H Block license area in which we do not meet the requirement may terminate. 

600 MHz Licenses.  Auction 1000 began on March 29, 2016 and concluded on March 30, 2017.  On April 13, 2017, the FCC announced that ParkerB.com, a wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network, was the winning bidder for certain 600 MHz Licenses with aggregate winning bids totaling approximately $6.211 billion.  On April 27, 2017, ParkerB.com filed an application with the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  On July 1, 2016, we paid $1.5 billion to the FCC as a deposit for Auction 1000.  On May 11, 2017, we paid the remaining balance of our winning bids of approximately $4.711 billion.  On June 14, 2017, the FCC issued an order granting ParkerB.com’s application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.

The 600 MHz Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  By June 2023, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer wireless service to at least 40% of the population in each area covered by an individual 600 MHz License (the “600 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement”).  By June 2029, we must provide reliable signal coverage and offer wireless service to at least 75% of the population in each area covered by an individual 600 MHz License (the “600 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement”).  If the 600 MHz Interim Build-Out Requirement is not met, the 600 MHz License term and the 600 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement may be accelerated by two years (from June 2029 to June 2027) for each 600 MHz License area in which we do not meet the requirement.  If the 600 MHz Final Build-Out Requirement is not met, our authorization for each 600 MHz License area in which we do not meet the requirement may terminate.  In addition, certain broadcasters will have up to 39 months (ending July 13, 2020) to relinquish their 600 MHz spectrum, which may impact the timing for our ability to commence operations using certain 600 MHz Licenses.  The FCC has issued the 600 MHz Licenses prior to the clearance of the spectrum, and the build-out deadlines are based on the date that the 600 MHz Licenses were issued to us, not the date that the spectrum is cleared.

MVDDS Licenses.  We have multichannel video distribution and data service (“MVDDS”) licenses in 82 out of 214 geographical license areas, including Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago and several other major metropolitan areas.  By August 2014, we were required to meet certain FCC build-out requirements related to our MVDDS licenses, and we are subject to certain FCC service rules applicable to these licenses.  In January 2015, the FCC granted our application to extend the build-out requirements related to our MVDDS licenses.  We now have until 2019 to provide “substantial service” on our MVDDS licenses, and the licenses expire in 2024.  Our MVDDS licenses may be terminated, however, if we do not provide substantial service in accordance with the new build-out requirements.

In 2016, the MVDDS 5G Coalition, of which we are a member, filed a petition for rulemaking requesting the FCC to consider updating the rules to allow us to provide two-way 5G services using our MVDDS licenses.  We cannot predict when or if the FCC will grant the petition and proceed with a rulemaking.  If the FCC adopts rules that would allow us to provide two-way 5G services using our MVDDS licenses, the requests of OneWeb and others for authority to use the band for service from NGSO satellite systems may hinder our ability to provide 5G services using our MVDDS licenses.

LMDS Licenses.  As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, we acquired from EchoStar certain Local Multipoint Distribution Service (“LMDS”) licenses in four markets: Cheyenne, Kansas City, Phoenix, and San Diego.  The “substantial service” milestone has been met with respect to each of the licenses.  These licenses expire in September 2018 unless they are renewed for an additional ten years.  There can be no assurances that the FCC will renew our licenses.  In addition, through the FCC’s Spectrum Frontiers proceeding, a portion of each of our LMDS licenses will be reassigned to the Upper Microwave Flexible Use Service band (27.5-28.35 GHz), which will allow for a more flexible use of the licenses, including, among other things, 5G mobile operations.

Commercialization of Our Wireless Spectrum Licenses and Related Assets. We have made substantial investments to acquire certain wireless spectrum licenses and related assets.  We will need to make significant additional investments or partner with others to, among other things, commercialize, build-out, and integrate these licenses and related assets, and any additional acquired licenses and related assets; and comply with regulations applicable to such licenses.  Depending on the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, and regulatory compliance, any such investments or partnerships could vary significantly.  In addition, as we consider our options for the commercialization of our wireless spectrum, we will incur significant additional expenses and will have to make significant investments related to, among other things, research and development, wireless testing and wireless network infrastructure.  In March 2017, we notified the FCC that we plan to deploy a next-generation 5G-capable network, focused on supporting narrowband IoT.  The first phase of the network deployment will be completed by March 2020, with subsequent phases to be completed thereafter.  We may also determine that additional wireless spectrum licenses may be required to commercialize our wireless business and to compete with other wireless service providers. 

We may need to raise significant additional capital in the future to fund the efforts described above, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to develop and implement a business model that will realize a return on these wireless spectrum licenses or that we will be able to profitably deploy the assets represented by these wireless spectrum licenses, which may affect the carrying amount of these assets and our future financial condition or results of operations.

DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses

Through our wholly-owned subsidiaries American II and American III, we have made over $10 billion in certain non-controlling investments in Northstar Spectrum, the parent company of Northstar Wireless, and in SNR HoldCo, the parent company of SNR Wireless, respectively.  Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless each filed applications with the FCC to participate in Auction 97 (the “AWS-3 Auction”) for the purpose of acquiring certain AWS-3 Licenses.  Each of Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless applied to receive bidding credits of 25% as designated entities under applicable FCC rules.  In February 2015, one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries received a refund from the FCC of its $400 million upfront payment made in 2014 related to the AWS-3 Auction.

Northstar Wireless was the winning bidder for AWS-3 Licenses with gross winning bid amounts totaling approximately $7.845 billion, which after taking into account a 25% bidding credit, is approximately $5.884 billion.  SNR Wireless was the winning bidder for AWS-3 Licenses with gross winning bid amounts totaling approximately $5.482 billion, which after taking into account a 25% bidding credit, is approximately $4.112 billion.  In addition to the net winning bids, SNR Wireless made a bid withdrawal payment of approximately $8 million.

On August 18, 2015, the FCC released a Memorandum Opinion and Order, FCC 15-104 (the “Order”) in which the FCC determined, among other things, that DISH Network has a controlling interest in, and is an affiliate of, Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless, and therefore DISH Network’s revenues should be attributed to them, which in turn makes Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless ineligible to receive the 25% bidding credits (approximately $1.961 billion for Northstar Wireless and $1.370 billion for SNR Wireless) (each a “Bidding Credit Amount” and collectively the “Bidding Credit Amounts”).  Each of Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless has filed a notice of appeal and petition for review of the Order with the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia, challenging, among other things, the FCC’s determination that they are ineligible to receive the Bidding Credit Amounts.  Oral arguments were presented to the Court on September 26, 2016.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the timing or outcome of these proceedings.   

On October 1, 2015, DISH Network, American II, American III, Northstar Wireless, SNR Wireless, and certain other entities holding certain interests in Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless, entered into a series of arrangements with respect to the AWS-3 Licenses, as further described below. 

Letters Exchanged between Northstar Wireless and the FCC Wireless Bureau.  As outlined in letters exchanged between Northstar Wireless and the Wireless Telecommunications Bureau of the FCC (the “FCC Wireless Bureau”), Northstar Wireless paid the gross winning bid amounts for 261 AWS-3 Licenses (the “Northstar Licenses”) totaling approximately $5.619 billion through the application of funds already on deposit with the FCC.  Northstar Wireless also notified the FCC that it would not be paying the gross winning bid amounts for 84 AWS-3 Licenses totaling approximately $2.226 billion.

As a result of the nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts, the FCC retained those licenses and Northstar Wireless owed the FCC an additional interim payment of approximately $334 million (the “Northstar Interim Payment”), which is equal to 15% of $2.226 billion.  The Northstar Interim Payment was recorded during the fourth quarter 2015 in “FCC auction expense” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.  Northstar Wireless immediately satisfied the Northstar Interim Payment through the application of funds already on deposit with the FCC and an additional loan from American II of approximately $69 million. As a result, the FCC will not deem Northstar Wireless to be a “current defaulter” under applicable FCC rules.

In addition, the FCC Wireless Bureau acknowledged that Northstar Wireless’ nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts does not constitute action involving gross misconduct, misrepresentation or bad faith. Therefore, the FCC concluded that such nonpayment will not affect the eligibility of Northstar Wireless, its investors (including DISH Network) or their respective affiliates to participate in future spectrum auctions (including Auction 1000 and any re-auction of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC).  At this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction of those AWS-3 licenses.

If the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC are greater than or equal to the winning bids of Northstar Wireless, no additional amounts will be owed to the FCC.  However, if those winning bids are less than the winning bids of Northstar Wireless, then Northstar Wireless will be responsible for the difference less any overpayment of the Northstar Interim Payment (which will be recalculated as 15% of the winning bids from re-auction or other award) (the “Northstar Re-Auction Payment”).  For example, if the winning bids in a re-auction are $1, the Northstar Re-Auction Payment would be approximately $1.892 billion, which is calculated as the difference between $2.226 billion (the Northstar winning bid amounts) and $1 (the winning bids from re-auction) less the resulting $334 million overpayment of the Northstar Interim Payment.  As discussed above, at this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the timing or outcome of any re-auction or the amount of any Northstar Re-Auction Payment.

Amendment to Northstar Wireless Credit Agreement.  On October 1, 2015, American II, Northstar Wireless and Northstar Spectrum amended the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated October 13, 2014, by and among American II, as Lender, Northstar Wireless, as Borrower, and Northstar Spectrum, as Guarantor (as amended, the “Northstar Credit Agreement”), to provide, among other things, that:  (i) the Northstar Interim Payment and any Northstar Re-Auction Payment will be made by American II directly to the FCC and will be deemed as loans under the Northstar Credit Agreement; (ii) the FCC is a third-party beneficiary with respect to American II’s obligation to pay the Northstar Interim Payment and any Northstar Re-Auction Payment; (iii) in the event that the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 Licenses retained by the FCC are less than the winning bids of Northstar Wireless, the purchaser, assignee or transferee of any AWS-3 Licenses from Northstar Wireless is obligated to pay its pro-rata share of the difference (and Northstar Wireless remains jointly and severally liable for such pro-rata share); and (iv) during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC Northstar Guaranty (as discussed below) and the date such guaranteed payments are paid, Northstar Wireless’ payment obligations to American II under the Northstar Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments.

DISH Network Guaranty in Favor of the FCC for Certain Northstar Wireless Obligations.  On October 1, 2015, DISH Network entered into a guaranty in favor of the FCC (the “FCC Northstar Guaranty”) with respect to the Northstar Interim Payment (which was satisfied on October 1, 2015) and any Northstar Re-Auction Payment.  The FCC Northstar Guaranty provides, among other things, that during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC Northstar Guaranty and the date such guaranteed payments are paid:  (i) Northstar Wireless’ payment obligations to American II under the Northstar Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments; and (ii) DISH Network or American II will withhold exercising certain rights as a creditor of Northstar Wireless.

Letters Exchanged between SNR Wireless and the FCC Wireless Bureau.As outlined in letters exchanged between SNR Wireless and the FCC Wireless Bureau, SNR Wireless paid the gross winning bid amounts for 244 AWS-3 Licenses (the “SNR Licenses”) totaling approximately $4.271 billion through the application of funds already on deposit with the FCC and a portion of an additional loan from American III in an aggregate amount of approximately $344 million (which included an additional bid withdrawal payment of approximately $3 million).  SNR Wireless also notified the FCC that it would not be paying the gross winning bid amounts for 113 AWS-3 Licenses totaling approximately $1.211 billion.

As a result of the nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts, the FCC retained those licenses and SNR Wireless owed the FCC an additional interim payment of approximately $182 million (the “SNR Interim Payment”), which is equal to 15% of $1.211 billion.  The SNR Interim Payment was recorded during the fourth quarter 2015 in “FCC auction expense” on our Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.  SNR Wireless immediately satisfied the SNR Interim Payment through a portion of an additional loan from American III in an aggregate amount of approximately $344 million.  As a result, the FCC will not deem SNR Wireless to be a “current defaulter” under applicable FCC rules.

In addition, the FCC Wireless Bureau acknowledged that SNR Wireless’ nonpayment of those gross winning bid amounts does not constitute action involving gross misconduct, misrepresentation or bad faith.  Therefore, the FCC concluded that such nonpayment will not affect the eligibility of SNR Wireless, its investors (including DISH Network) or their respective affiliates to participate in future spectrum auctions (including Auction 1000 and any re-auction of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC).  At this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction of those AWS-3 licenses.

If the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC are greater than or equal to the winning bids of SNR Wireless, no additional amounts will be owed to the FCC.  However, if those winning bids are less than the winning bids of SNR Wireless, then SNR Wireless will be responsible for the difference less any overpayment of the SNR Interim Payment (which will be recalculated as 15% of the winning bids from re-auction or other award) (the “SNR Re-Auction Payment”).  For example, if the winning bids in a re-auction are $1, the SNR Re-Auction Payment would be approximately $1.029 billion, which is calculated as the difference between $1.211 billion (the SNR winning bid amounts) and $1 (the winning bids from re-auction) less the resulting $182 million overpayment of the SNR Interim Payment. As discussed above, at this time, DISH Network (through itself, a subsidiary or another entity in which it may hold a direct or indirect interest) expects to participate in any re-auction.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the timing or outcome of any re-auction or the amount of any SNR Re-Auction Payment.

Amendment to SNR Wireless Credit Agreement.  On October 1, 2015, American III, SNR Wireless and SNR HoldCo amended the First Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated October 13, 2014, by and among American III, as Lender, SNR Wireless, as Borrower, and SNR HoldCo, as Guarantor (as amended, the “SNR Credit Agreement”), to provide, among other things, that:  (i) the SNR Interim Payment and any SNR Re-Auction Payment will be made by American III directly to the FCC and will be deemed as loans under the SNR Credit Agreement; (ii) the FCC is a third-party beneficiary with respect to American III’s obligation to pay the SNR Interim Payment and any SNR Re-Auction Payment; (iii) in the event that the winning bids from re-auction or other award of the AWS-3 Licenses retained by the FCC are less than the winning bids of SNR Wireless, the purchaser, assignee or transferee of any AWS-3 Licenses from SNR Wireless is obligated to pay its pro-rata share of the difference (and SNR Wireless remains jointly and severally liable for such pro-rata share); and (iv) during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC SNR Guaranty (as discussed below) and the date such guaranteed payments are paid, SNR Wireless’ payment obligations to American III under the SNR Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments. 

DISH Network Guaranty in Favor of the FCC for Certain SNR Wireless Obligations.  On October 1, 2015, DISH Network entered into a guaranty in favor of the FCC (the “FCC SNR Guaranty”) with respect to the SNR Interim Payment (which was satisfied on October 1, 2015) and any SNR Re-Auction Payment.  The FCC SNR Guaranty provides, among other things, that  during the period between the due date for the payments guaranteed under the FCC SNR Guaranty and the date such guaranteed payments are paid:  (i) SNR Wireless’ payment obligations to American III under the SNR Credit Agreement will be subordinated to such guaranteed payments; and (ii) DISH Network or American III will withhold exercising certain rights as a creditor of SNR Wireless.

Northstar Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northstar Spectrum.  Through American II, we own an 85% non-controlling interest in Northstar Spectrum.  Northstar Manager owns a 15% controlling interest in, and is the sole manager of, Northstar Spectrum.  Northstar Spectrum is governed by a limited liability company agreement by and between American II and Northstar Manager (the “Northstar Spectrum LLC Agreement”).  Pursuant to the Northstar Spectrum LLC Agreement, American II and Northstar Manager made pro-rata equity contributions in Northstar Spectrum.  As of October 1, 2015, the total equity contributions from American II and Northstar Manager to Northstar Spectrum were approximately $750 million and $133 million, respectively.  As of October 1, 2015, the total loans from American II to Northstar Wireless under the Northstar Credit Agreement for payments to the FCC related to the Northstar Licenses were approximately $5.070 billion.

SNR Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNR HoldCo.  Through American III, we own an 85% non-controlling interest in SNR HoldCo.  SNR Management owns a 15% controlling interest in, and is the sole manager of, SNR HoldCo.  SNR HoldCo is governed by a limited liability company agreement by and between American III and SNR Management (the “SNR HoldCo LLC Agreement”).  Pursuant to the SNR HoldCo LLC Agreement, American III and SNR Management made pro-rata equity contributions in SNR HoldCo.  As of October 1, 2015, the total equity contributions from American III and SNR Management to SNR HoldCo were approximately $524 million and $93 million, respectively.  As of October 1, 2015, the total loans from American III to SNR Wireless under the SNR Credit Agreement for payments to the FCC related to the SNR Licenses were approximately $3.847 billion.

After Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless satisfied their respective payments to the FCC on October 1, 2015 for the Northstar Licenses and the SNR Licenses, and the Northstar Interim Payment and the SNR Interim Payment (which included an additional bid withdrawal payment), our total non-controlling debt and equity investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities for payments to the FCC related to the AWS-3 Licenses were approximately $10.191 billion.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, Northstar Spectrum and SNR HoldCo are considered variable interest entities and, based on the characteristics of the structure of these entities and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate these entities into our financial statements.  See Note 2 for further information.

On October 27, 2015, the FCC granted the Northstar Licenses to Northstar Wireless and the SNR Licenses to SNR Wireless, respectively, which are recorded in “FCC authorizations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The AWS-3 Licenses are subject to certain interim and final build-out requirements.  By October 2021, Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 40% of the population in each area covered by an individual AWS-3 License (the “AWS-3 Interim Build-Out Requirement”).  By October 2027, Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless must provide reliable signal coverage and offer service to at least 75% of the population in each area covered by an individual AWS-3 License (the “AWS-3 Final Build-Out Requirement”).  If the AWS-3 Interim Build-Out Requirement is not met, the AWS-3 License term and the AWS-3 Final Build-Out Requirement may be accelerated by two years (from October 2027 to October 2025) for each AWS-3 License area in which Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless do not meet the requirement.  If the AWS-3 Final Build-Out Requirement is not met, the authorization for each AWS-3 License area in which Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless do not meet the requirement may terminate. 

In addition, on September 23, 2016, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia unsealed a qui tam complaint that was filed by Vermont National Telephone Company (“Vermont National”) against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries, American AWS-3 Wireless I L.L.C., American II, American III, and DISH Wireless Holding L.L.C.; Charles W. Ergen (our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer) and Cantey M. Ergen (a member of our board of directors); Northstar Wireless; Northstar Spectrum; Northstar Manager; SNR Wireless; SNR HoldCo; SNR Management; and certain other parties.  See “Contingencies – Litigation – Vermont National Telephone Company” for further information.

We may need to make significant additional loans to the Northstar Entities and to the SNR Entities, or they may need to partner with others, so that the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities may commercialize, build-out and integrate the Northstar Licenses and the SNR Licenses, comply with regulations applicable to the Northstar Licenses and the SNR Licenses, and make any potential payments related to the re-auction of AWS-3 licenses retained by the FCC.  Depending upon the nature and scope of such commercialization, build-out, integration efforts, regulatory compliance, and potential re-auction payments, any such loans or partnerships could vary significantly.  We may need to raise significant additional capital in the future, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, to make further investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities.  There can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain a profitable return on our non-controlling investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities. 

Guarantees

During the third quarter 2009, EchoStar entered into a satellite transponder service agreement for Nimiq 5 through 2024.  We sublease this capacity from EchoStar and also guarantee a certain portion of EchoStar’s obligation under its satellite transponder service agreement through 2019.  As of June 30, 2017, the remaining obligation of our guarantee was $158 million.

As of June 30, 2017, we have not recorded a liability on the balance sheet for this guarantee.

Contingencies

Separation Agreement

On January 1, 2008, we completed the distribution of our technology and set-top box business and certain infrastructure assets (the “Spin-off”) into a separate publicly-traded company, EchoStar.  In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a separation agreement with EchoStar that provides, among other things, for the division of certain liabilities, including liabilities resulting from litigation.  Under the terms of the separation agreement, EchoStar has assumed certain liabilities that relate to its business, including certain designated liabilities for acts or omissions that occurred prior to the Spin-off.  Certain specific provisions govern intellectual property related claims under which, generally, EchoStar will only be liable for its acts or omissions following the Spin-off and we will indemnify EchoStar for any liabilities or damages resulting from intellectual property claims relating to the period prior to the Spin-off, as well as our acts or omissions following the Spin-off.  On February 28, 2017, we and EchoStar completed the Share Exchange pursuant to which certain assets that were transferred to EchoStar in the Spin-off were transferred back to us.  The Share Exchange Agreement contains additional indemnification provisions between us and EchoStar for certain liabilities and legal proceedings.

Litigation

We are involved in a number of legal proceedings (including those described below) concerning matters arising in connection with the conduct of our business activities.  Many of these proceedings are at preliminary stages, and many of these proceedings seek an indeterminate amount of damages.  We regularly evaluate the status of the legal proceedings in which we are involved to assess whether a loss is probable or there is a reasonable possibility that a loss or an additional loss may have been incurred and to determine if accruals are appropriate.  If accruals are not appropriate, we further evaluate each legal proceeding to assess whether an estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss can be made.

For certain cases described on the following pages, management is unable to provide a meaningful estimate of the possible loss or range of possible loss because, among other reasons, (i) the proceedings are in various stages; (ii) damages have not been sought; (iii) damages are unsupported and/or exaggerated; (iv) there is uncertainty as to the outcome of pending appeals or motions; (v) there are significant factual issues to be resolved; and/or (vi) there are novel legal issues or unsettled legal theories to be presented or a large number of parties (as with many patent-related cases).  For these cases, however, management does not believe, based on currently available information, that the outcomes of these proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, though the outcomes could be material to our operating results for any particular period, depending, in part, upon the operating results for such period.

ClearPlay, Inc.

On March 13, 2014, ClearPlay, Inc. (“ClearPlay”) filed a complaint against us, our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C., EchoStar, and its then wholly-owned subsidiary EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., in the United States District Court for the District of Utah.  The complaint alleges infringement of United States Patent Nos. 6,898,799 (the “799 patent”), entitled “Multimedia Content Navigation and Playback”; 7,526,784 (the “784 patent”), entitled “Delivery of Navigation Data for Playback of Audio and Video Content”; 7,543,318 (the “318 patent”), entitled “Delivery of Navigation Data for Playback of Audio and Video Content”; 7,577,970 (the “970 patent”), entitled “Multimedia Content Navigation and Playback”; and 8,117,282 (the “282 patent”), entitled “Media Player Configured to Receive Playback Filters From Alternative Storage Mediums.”  ClearPlay alleges that the AutoHop™ feature of our Hopper set-top box infringes the asserted patents.  On February 11, 2015, the case was stayed pending various third-party challenges before the United States Patent and Trademark Office regarding the validity of certain of the patents asserted in the action.  In those third-party challenges, the United States Patent and Trademark Office found that all claims of the 282 patent are unpatentable, and that certain claims of the 784 patent and 318 patent are unpatentable.  ClearPlay appealed as to the 784 patent and the 318 patent, and on August 23, 2016, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit affirmed the findings of the United States Patent and Trademark Office.  On October 31, 2016, the stay was lifted.  No trial date has been set.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

CRFD Research, Inc. (a subsidiary of Marathon Patent Group, Inc.)

On January 17, 2014, CRFD Research, Inc. (“CRFD”) filed a complaint against us, our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH DBS Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C., EchoStar, and its then wholly-owned subsidiary EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 7,191,233 (the “233 patent”).  The 233 patent is entitled “System for Automated, Mid-Session, User-Directed, Device-to-Device Session Transfer System,” and relates to transferring an ongoing software session from one device to another.  CRFD alleges that our Hopper and Joey® set-top boxes infringe the 233 patent.  On the same day, CRFD filed similar complaints against AT&T Inc.; Comcast Corp.; DirecTV; Time Warner Cable Inc.; Cox Communications, Inc.; Akamai Technologies, Inc.; Cablevision Systems Corp. and Limelight Networks, Inc.  CRFD is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  On January 26, 2015, we and EchoStar filed a petition before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 233 patent.  The United States Patent and Trademark Office has agreed to institute a proceeding on our petition, as well as on two third-party petitions challenging the validity of certain claims of the 233 patent, and it heard oral argument on January 16, 2016.  On June 1, 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office found that all claims asserted against us and the EchoStar parties were unpatentable.  On July 5, 2016, CRFD filed a notice of appeal to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, which heard oral argument on April 6, 2017.  The litigation in the District Court has been stayed since June 4, 2015 pending resolution of our petition to the United States Patent and Trademark Office. 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Customedia Technologies, L.L.C.

On February 10, 2016, Customedia Technologies, L.L.C. (“Customedia”) filed a complaint against us and our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.  The complaint alleges infringement of four patents: United States Patent No. 8,719,090 (the “090 patent”); United States Patent No. 9,053,494 (the “494 patent”); United States Patent No. 7,840,437 (the “437 patent”); and United States Patent No. 8,955,029 (the “029 patent”).  Each patent is entitled “System for Data Management And On-Demand Rental And Purchase Of Digital Data Products.”  Customedia appears to allege infringement in connection with our addressable advertising services, our DISH Anywhere feature, and our Pay-Per-View and video-on-demand offerings.  In December 2016 and January 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed petitions with the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of the asserted claims of each of the asserted patents.  On June 12, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions challenging the 090 patent and the 437 patent; on July 18, 2017, it agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions challenging the 029 patent; and on July 28, 2017, it agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions challenging the 437 patent.  These instituted proceedings cover all asserted claims of each of the asserted patents.  Trial has been set for August 31, 2017, and we have requested a stay pending resolution of the proceedings at the United States Patent and Trademark Office.  Customedia is an entity that seeks to license a patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Do Not Call Litigation

On March 25, 2009, our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. was sued in a civil action by the United States Attorney General and several states in the United States District Court for the Central District of Illinois (the “FTC Action”), alleging violations of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (“TCPA”) and the Telemarketing Sales Rule (“TSR”), as well as analogous state statutes and state consumer protection laws.  The plaintiffs alleged that we, directly and through certain independent third-party retailers and their affiliates, committed certain telemarketing violations.  On December 23, 2013, the plaintiffs filed a motion for summary judgment, which indicated for the first time that the state plaintiffs were seeking civil penalties and damages of approximately $270 million and that the federal plaintiff was seeking an unspecified amount of civil penalties (which could substantially exceed the civil penalties and damages being sought by the state plaintiffs).  The plaintiffs were also seeking injunctive relief that if granted would, among other things, enjoin DISH Network L.L.C., whether acting directly or indirectly through authorized telemarketers or independent third-party retailers, from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services for five years, and enjoin DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting activations or sales from certain existing independent third-party retailers and from certain new independent third-party retailers, except under certain circumstances.  We also filed a motion for summary judgment, seeking dismissal of all claims.  On December 12, 2014, the Court issued its opinion with respect to the parties’ summary judgment motions.  The Court found that DISH Network L.L.C. was entitled to partial summary judgment with respect to one claim in the action.  In addition, the Court found that the plaintiffs were entitled to partial summary judgment with respect to ten claims in the action, which included, among other things, findings by the Court establishing DISH Network L.L.C.’s liability for a substantial amount of the alleged outbound telemarketing calls by DISH Network L.L.C. and certain of its independent third-party retailers that were the subject of the plaintiffs’ motion.  The Court did not issue any injunctive relief and did not make any determination on civil penalties or damages, ruling instead that the scope of any injunctive relief and the amount of any civil penalties or damages were questions for trial. 

In pre-trial disclosures, the federal plaintiff indicated that it intended to seek up to $900 million in alleged civil penalties, and the state plaintiffs indicated that they intended to seek as much as $23.5 billion in alleged civil penalties and damages.  The plaintiffs also modified their request for injunctive relief.  Their requested injunction, if granted, would have enjoined DISH Network L.L.C. from placing outbound telemarketing calls unless and until: (i) DISH Network L.L.C. hired a third-party consulting organization to perform a review of its call center operations; (ii) such third-party consulting organization submitted a telemarketing compliance plan to the Court and the federal plaintiff; (iii) the Court held a hearing on the adequacy of the plan; (iv) if the Court approved the plan, DISH Network L.L.C. implemented the plan and verified to the Court that it had implemented the plan; and (v) the Court issued an order permitting DISH Network L.L.C. to resume placing outbound telemarketing calls.  The plaintiffs’ modified request for injunctive relief, if granted, would have also enjoined DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting customer orders solicited by certain independent third-party retailers unless and until a similar third-party review and Court approval process was followed with respect to the telemarketing activities of its independent third-party retailer base to ensure compliance with the TSR.

The first phase of the bench trial took place January 19, 2016 through February 11, 2016.  In closing briefs, the federal plaintiff indicated that it still was seeking $900 million in alleged civil penalties; the California state plaintiff indicated that it was seeking $100 million in alleged civil penalties and damages for its state law claims (in addition to any amounts sought on its federal law claims); the Ohio state plaintiff indicated that it was seeking approximately $10 million in alleged civil penalties and damages for its state law claims (in addition to any amounts sought on its federal law claims); and the Illinois and North Carolina state plaintiffs did not state the specific alleged civil penalties and damages that they were seeking; but the state plaintiffs took the general position that any damages award less than $1.0 billion (presumably for both federal and state law claims) would not raise constitutional concerns.  Under the Eighth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, excessive fines may not be imposed. 

On October 3, 2016, the plaintiffs further modified their request for injunctive relief, and were seeking, among other things, to enjoin DISH Network L.L.C., whether acting directly or indirectly through authorized telemarketers or independent third-party retailers, from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services for five years, and enjoin DISH Network L.L.C. from accepting activations or sales from some or all existing independent third-party retailers.  The second phase of the bench trial, which commenced on October 25, 2016 and concluded on November 2, 2016, covered the plaintiffs’ requested injunctive relief, as well as certain evidence related to the state plaintiffs’ claims.

On June 5, 2017, the Court issued Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law and entered Judgment ordering DISH Network L.L.C. to pay an aggregate amount of $280 million to the federal and state plaintiffs.  The Court also issued a Permanent Injunction (the “Injunction”) against DISH Network L.L.C. that imposes certain ongoing compliance requirements on DISH Network L.L.C., which include, among other things: (i) the retention of a telemarketing-compliance expert to prepare a plan to ensure that DISH Network L.L.C. and certain independent third-party retailers will continue to comply with telemarketing laws and the Injunction; (ii) certain telemarketing records retention and production requirements; and (iii) certain compliance reporting and monitoring requirements.  In addition to the compliance requirements under the Injunction, within ninety (90) days after the effective date of the Injunction, DISH Network L.L.C. is required to demonstrate that it and certain independent third-party retailers are in compliance with the Safe Harbor Provisions of the TSR and TCPA and have made no prerecorded telemarketing calls during the five (5) years prior to the effective date of the Injunction (collectively, the “Demonstration Requirements”).  If DISH Network L.L.C. fails to prove that it meets the Demonstration Requirements, it will be barred from conducting any outbound telemarketing for two (2) years.  If DISH Network L.L.C. fails to prove that a particular independent third-party retailer meets the Demonstration Requirements, DISH Network L.L.C. will be barred from accepting orders from that independent third-party retailer for two (2) years.  On July 3, 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed two motions with the Court:  (1) to alter or amend the Judgment or in the alternative to amend the Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law; and (2) to clarify, alter and amend the Injunction.  During the three months ended June 30, 2017, we recorded $255 million of “Litigation expense” related to the FTC Action on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  We recorded $25 million of “Litigation expense” related to the FTC Action during prior periods.  Our total accrual at June 30, 2017 related to the FTC Action was $280 million and is included in “Other accrued expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Any eventual payments made with respect to the FTC Action may not be deductible for tax purposes, which had a negative impact on our effective tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017.  The tax deductibility of any eventual payments made with respect to the FTC Action may change, based upon, among other things, further developments in the FTC Action, including final adjudication of the FTC Action. 

We may also from time to time be subject to private civil litigation alleging telemarketing violations.  For example, a portion of the alleged telemarketing violations by an independent third-party retailer at issue in the FTC Action are also the subject of a certified class action filed against DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina (the “Krakauer Action”).  Following a five-day trial, on January 19, 2017, a jury in that case found that the independent third-party retailer was acting as DISH Network L.L.C.’s agent when it made the 51,119 calls at issue in that case, and that class members are eligible to recover $400 in damages for each call made in violation of the TCPA.  On March 7, 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. filed motions with the Court for judgment as a matter of law and, in the alternative, for a new trial, which the Court denied on May 16, 2017.  On May 22, 2017, the Court ruled that the violations were willful and knowing, and trebled the damages award to $1,200 for each call made in violation of TCPA.  During the three months ended June 30, 2017, we recorded $41 million of “Litigation expense” related to the Krakauer Action on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  We recorded $20 million of “Litigation expense” related to the Krakauer Action during the fourth quarter 2016.  Our total accrual related to the Krakauer Action at June 30, 2017 was $61 million and is included in “Other accrued expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. 

We intend to vigorously defend these cases.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of these suits.

Dragon Intellectual Property, LLC

On December 20, 2013, Dragon Intellectual Property, LLC (“Dragon IP”) filed complaints against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C., as well as Apple Inc.; AT&T, Inc.; Charter Communications, Inc.; Comcast Corp.; Cox Communications, Inc.; DirecTV; Sirius XM Radio Inc.; Time Warner Cable Inc. and Verizon Communications, Inc., in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 5,930,444 (the “444 patent”), which is entitled “Simultaneous Recording and Playback Apparatus.”  Dragon IP alleges that various of our DVR receivers infringe the 444 patent.  Dragon IP is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  On December 23, 2014, DISH Network L.L.C. filed a petition before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 444 patent.  On April 10, 2015, the Court granted DISH Network L.L.C.’s motion to stay the action in light of DISH Network L.L.C.’s petition and certain other defendants’ petitions pending before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 444 patent.  On July 17, 2015, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute a proceeding on our petition.  Pursuant to a stipulation between the parties, on April 27, 2016, the Court entered an order of non-infringement and judgment in favor of DISH Network L.L.C.  On June 15, 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office entered an order that the patent claims being asserted against DISH Network L.L.C. with respect to the 444 patent are unpatentable.  On August 8, 2016, Dragon filed notices of appeal with respect to the Court’s judgment and the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s decision.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Grecia

On March 27, 2015, William Grecia (“Grecia”) filed a complaint against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 8,533,860 (the “860 patent”), which is entitled “Personalized Digital Media Access System—PDMAS Part II.”  Grecia alleges that we violate the 860 patent in connection with our digital rights management.  Grecia is the named inventor on the 860 patent.  On June 22, 2015, the case was transferred to the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.  On November 18, 2015, Grecia filed an amended complaint adding allegations that we infringe U.S. Patent No. 8,402,555 (the “555 patent”), which is entitled “Personalized Digital Media Access System (PDMAS).”  Grecia is the named inventor on the 555 patent.  Grecia alleges that we violate the 555 patent in connection with our digital rights management.  Grecia dismissed his action with prejudice on February 3, 2016.

On February 3, 2016, Grecia filed a new complaint against our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. 8,887,308 (the “308 patent”), which is entitled “Digital Cloud Access—PDMAS Part III,” on which Grecia is also the named inventor.  Grecia alleges that we violate the 308 patent in connection with our DISH Anywhere feature.  On July 29, 2016, DISH Network L.L.C. filed a petition before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 308 patent.  On January 19, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office declined to institute a proceeding on our petition.  The litigation in the District Court, which had been stayed since June 13, 2016 pending resolution of DISH Network L.L.C.’s petition to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, was further stayed on February 23, 2017 pending a claim construction order from the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York in a separate action in which Grecia is asserting the same patent.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

IPA Technologies Inc.

On December 9, 2016, IPA Technologies Inc. (“IPA”) filed suit against us and our wholly-owned subsidiary DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware.  IPA alleges that our Voice Remote with Hopper 3 infringes United States Patent Number 6,742,021 (the “021 patent”), which is entitled “Navigating Network-based Electronic Information Using Spoken Input with Multimodal Error Feedback”; United States Patent Number 6,523,061 (the “061 patent”), which is entitled “System, Method, and Article of Manufacture for Agent-Based Navigation in a Speech-Based Data Navigation System”; and United States Patent Number 6,757,718 (the “718 patent”), which is entitled “Mobile Navigation of Network-Based Electronic Information Using Spoken Input.”  IPA is an entity that seeks to license a patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

LightSquared/Harbinger Capital Partners LLC (LightSquared Bankruptcy)

As previously disclosed in our public filings, L-Band Acquisition, LLC (“LBAC”), our wholly-owned subsidiary, entered into a Plan Support Agreement (the “PSA”) with certain senior secured lenders to LightSquared LP (the “LightSquared LP Lenders”) on July 23, 2013, which contemplated the purchase by LBAC of substantially all of the assets of LightSquared LP and certain of its subsidiaries (the “LBAC Bid”) that are debtors and debtors in possession in the LightSquared bankruptcy cases pending in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Bankruptcy Court”), which cases are jointly administered under the caption In re LightSquared Inc., et. al., Case No. 12 12080 (SCC).

Pursuant to the PSA, LBAC was entitled to terminate the PSA in certain circumstances, certain of which required three business days written notice, including, without limitation, in the event that certain milestones specified in the PSA were not met.  On January 7, 2014, LBAC delivered written notice of termination of the PSA to the LightSquared LP Lenders.  As a result, the PSA terminated effective on January 10, 2014, and the LBAC Bid was withdrawn.

On August 6, 2013, Harbinger Capital Partners LLC and other affiliates of Harbinger (collectively, “Harbinger”), a shareholder of LightSquared Inc., filed an adversary proceeding against us, LBAC, EchoStar, Charles W. Ergen (our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer), SP Special Opportunities, LLC (“SPSO”) (an entity controlled by Mr. Ergen), and certain other parties, in the Bankruptcy Court.  Harbinger alleged, among other things, claims based on fraud, unfair competition, civil conspiracy and tortious interference with prospective economic advantage related to certain purchases of LightSquared secured debt by SPSO.  Subsequently, LightSquared intervened to join in certain claims alleged against certain defendants other than us, LBAC and EchoStar.

On October 29, 2013, the Bankruptcy Court dismissed all of the claims in Harbinger’s complaint in their entirety, but granted leave for LightSquared to file its own complaint in intervention.  On November 15, 2013, LightSquared filed its complaint, which included various claims against us, EchoStar, Mr. Ergen and SPSO.  On December 2, 2013, Harbinger filed an amended complaint, asserting various claims against SPSO.  On December 12, 2013, the Bankruptcy Court dismissed several of the claims asserted by LightSquared and Harbinger.  The surviving claims included, among others, LightSquared’s claims against SPSO for declaratory relief, breach of contract and statutory disallowance; LightSquared’s tortious interference claim against us, EchoStar and Mr. Ergen; and Harbinger’s claim against SPSO for statutory disallowance.  These claims proceeded to a non-jury trial on January 9, 2014.  In its Post-Trial Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law entered on June 10, 2014, the Bankruptcy Court rejected all claims against us and EchoStar, and it rejected some but not all claims against the other defendants.  On July 7, 2015, the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York denied Harbinger’s motion for an interlocutory appeal of certain Bankruptcy Court orders in the adversary proceeding.  On March 27, 2015, the Bankruptcy Court entered an order confirming the Modified Second Amended Joint Plan pursuant to Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code and, on December 7, 2015, the Plan became effective.

We intend to vigorously defend any claims against us in this proceeding and cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of this proceeding or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

LightSquared Transaction Shareholder Derivative Actions

On August 9, 2013, a purported shareholder of the Company, Jacksonville Police and Fire Pension Fund (“Jacksonville PFPF”), filed a putative shareholder derivative action in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada alleging, among other things, breach of fiduciary duty claims against the members of the Company’s Board of Directors as of that date:  Charles W. Ergen; Joseph P. Clayton; James DeFranco; Cantey M. Ergen; Steven R. Goodbarn; David K. Moskowitz; Tom A. Ortolf; and Carl E. Vogel (collectively, the “Director Defendants”).  In its first amended complaint, Jacksonville PFPF asserted claims that Mr. Ergen breached his fiduciary duty to the Company in connection with certain purchases of LightSquared debt by SPSO, an entity controlled by Mr. Ergen, and that the other Director Defendants aided and abetted that alleged breach of duty.  The Jacksonville PFPF claims alleged that (1) the debt purchases created an impermissible conflict of interest and (2) put at risk the LBAC Bid, which as noted above was withdrawn.  Jacksonville PFPF further claimed that most members of the Company’s Board of Directors are beholden to Mr. Ergen to an extent that prevents them from discharging their duties in connection with the Company’s participation in the LightSquared bankruptcy auction process.  Jacksonville PFPF is seeking an unspecified amount of damages.  Jacksonville PFPF dismissed its claims against Mr. Goodbarn on October 8, 2013.

Jacksonville PFPF sought a preliminary injunction that would enjoin Mr. Ergen and all of the Director Defendants other than Mr. Goodbarn from influencing the Company’s efforts to acquire certain assets of LightSquared in the bankruptcy proceeding.  On November 27, 2013, the Court denied that request but granted narrower relief enjoining Mr. Ergen and anyone acting on his behalf from participating in negotiations related to one aspect of the LBAC Bid, which, as noted above, was withdrawn.

Five alleged shareholders filed substantially similar putative derivative complaints in state and federal courts alleging the same or substantially similar claims.  On September 18, 2013, DCM Multi-Manager Fund, LLC filed a duplicative putative derivative complaint in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada, which was consolidated with the Jacksonville PFPF action on October 9, 2013.  Between September 25, 2013 and October 2, 2013, City of Daytona Beach Police Officers and Firefighters Retirement System, Louisiana Municipal Police Employees’ Retirement System and Iron Worker Mid-South Pension Fund filed duplicative putative derivative complaints in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado.  Also on October 2, 2013, Iron Workers District Council (Philadelphia and Vicinity) Retirement and Pension Plan filed its complaint in the United States District Court for the District of Nevada.

On October 11, 2013, Iron Worker Mid-South Pension Fund dismissed its claims without prejudice.  On October 30, 2013, Louisiana Municipal Police Employees’ Retirement System dismissed its claims without prejudice and, on January 2, 2014, filed a new complaint in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada, which, on May 2, 2014, was consolidated with the Jacksonville PFPF action.  On December 13, 2013, City of Daytona Beach Police Officers and Firefighters Retirement System voluntarily dismissed its claims without prejudice.  On March 28, 2014, Iron Workers District Council (Philadelphia and Vicinity) Retirement and Pension Plan voluntarily dismissed its claims without prejudice.

On July 25, 2014, Jacksonville PFPF filed a second amended complaint, which added claims against George R. Brokaw and Charles M. Lillis, as Director Defendants, and Thomas A. Cullen, R. Stanton Dodge and K. Jason Kiser, as officers of the Company.  Jacksonville PFPF asserted five claims in its second amended complaint, each of which alleged breaches of the duty of loyalty.  Three of the claims were asserted solely against Mr. Ergen; one claim was made against all of the remaining Director Defendants, other than Mr. Ergen and Mr. Clayton; and the final claim was made against Messrs. Cullen, Dodge and Kiser.

Our Board of Directors established a Special Litigation Committee to review the factual allegations and legal claims in these actions.  On October 24, 2014, the Special Litigation Committee filed a report in the District Court for Clark County, Nevada regarding its investigation of the claims and allegations asserted in Jacksonville PFPF’s second amended complaint.  The Special Litigation Committee filed a motion to dismiss the action based, among other things, on its business judgment that it is in the best interests of the Company not to pursue the claims asserted by Jacksonville PFPF.  The Director Defendants and Messrs. Cullen, Dodge and Kiser have also filed various motions to dismiss the action.  In an order entered on September 18, 2015, the Court granted the Special Litigation Committee’s motion to defer to the Special Litigation Committee’s October 24, 2014 report, including its finding that dismissal of the action is in the best interest of the Company.  The Court also held that, in light of granting the motion to defer, the pending motions to dismiss filed by the individual defendants were denied without prejudice as moot.  On October 12, 2015, Jacksonville PFPF filed a notice of appeal to the Supreme Court of Nevada, which heard oral argument on June 5, 2017.We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of these suits or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Michael Heskiaoff, Marc Langenohl, and Rafael Mann

On July 10, 2015, Messrs. Michael Heskiaoff and Marc Langenohl, purportedly on behalf of themselves and all others similarly situated, filed suit against our subsidiary Sling Media, Inc. (now known as “Sling Media L.L.C.,” which we acquired as a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017) in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.  The complaint alleges that Sling Media Inc.’s display of advertising to its customers violates a number of state statutes dealing with consumer deception.  On September 25, 2015, the plaintiffs filed an amended complaint, and Mr. Rafael Mann, purportedly on behalf of himself and all others similarly situated, filed an additional complaint alleging similar causes of action.  On November 16, 2015, the cases were consolidated.  On August 12, 2016, the Court granted our motion to dismiss the consolidated case.  On September 12, 2016, the plaintiffs moved the Court for leave to file an amended complaint, which we opposed.  On March 22, 2017, the Court denied the plaintiffs’ motion for leave to file an amended complaint and entered judgment in favor of Sling Media L.L.C.  On April 17, 2017, the plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Realtime Data LLC

On June 6, 2017, Realtime Data LLC d/b/a IXO (“Realtime”) filed an amended complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH Network L.L.C., EchoStar Technologies L.L.C., Sling TV L.L.C. and Sling Media L.L.C.; EchoStar, and EchoStar’s wholly-owned subsidiary Hughes Network Systems, LLC; and Arris Group, Inc.  The amended complaint alleges infringement of U.S. Patent No. 8,717,204 (the “204 patent”), entitled “Methods for encoding and decoding data”; U.S. Patent No. 9,054,728 (the “728 patent”), entitled “Data compression systems and methods”; U.S. Patent No. 7,358,867 (the “867 patent”), entitled “Content independent data compression method and system”; U.S. Patent No. 8,502,707 (the “707 patent”), entitled “Data compression systems and methods”; U.S. Patent No. 8,275,897 (the “897 patent”), entitled “System and methods for accelerated data storage and retrieval”; U.S. Patent No. 8,867,610 (the “610 patent”), entitled “System and methods for video and audio data distribution”; U.S. Patent No. 8,934,535 (the “535 patent”), entitled “Systems and methods for video and audio data storage and distribution”; and U.S. Patent No. 8,553,759 (the “759 patent”), entitled “Bandwidth sensitive data compression and decompression.”  Realtime’s original complaint, filed on February 14, 2017, had named only EchoStar and Hughes Network Systems, LLC as defendants.  Realtime alleges that DISH, Sling TV, Sling Media and Arris streaming video products and services compliant with various versions of the H.264 video compression standard infringe the 897 patent, the 610 patent and the 535 patent, and that the data compression system in Hughes’ products and services infringe the 204 patent, the 728 patent, the 867 patent, the 707 patent and the 759 patent.  On July 19, 2017, the Court severed the claims against us, DISH Network L.L.C., Sling TV L.L.C., Sling Media L.L.C. and Arris Group, Inc. into a separate action.  Realtime is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein. 

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C.

On January 22, 2009, Technology Development and Licensing L.L.C. (“TDL”) filed suit against us and EchoStar, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleging infringement of United States Patent No. Re. 35,952 (the “952 patent”), which relates to certain favorite channel features.  TDL is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  The case was stayed in July 2009 pending two reexamination petitions before the United States Patent and Trademark Office, which concluded in August 2015 and resulted in 42 out of the 53 claims of the 952 patent being invalidated.  Six of the surviving 11 claims are asserted against us.  The case resumed in August 2015.  In a separate matter in which TDL is asserting the same patent, the court in that action ruled that four claims of the 952 patent (which are among the six claims asserted against us) are invalid because they claim unpatentable subject matter, and TDL has stipulated that it will not appeal that order.  On June 19, 2017, the District Court ruled that the two remaining asserted claims of the 952 patent are invalid because they claim unpatentable subject matter.  On July 11, 2017, the parties filed a stipulation pursuant to which TDL dismissed the action and waived its appeal rights, and we and EchoStar agreed not to seek recovery of our court costs.  This matter is now concluded.

TQ Beta LLC

On June 30, 2014, TQ Beta LLC (“TQ Beta”) filed a complaint against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH DBS Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C.; EchoStar; and EchoStar’s subsidiary Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation; and EchoStar’s then wholly-owned subsidiaries, Sling Media, Inc. (now known as “Sling Media L.L.C.”) and EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware.  The Complaint alleges infringement of United States Patent No. 7,203,456 (the “456 patent”), which is entitled “Method and Apparatus for Time and Space Domain Shifting of Broadcast Signals.”  TQ Beta alleges that our Hopper set-top boxes, ViP 722 and ViP 722k DVR devices, as well as our DISH Anywhere™ service and DISH Anywhere mobile application, infringe the 456 patent.  TQ Beta is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  During August 2015, DISH Network L.L.C. filed petitions before the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of certain claims of the 456 patent, and in February 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petitions.  On February 25, 2016, the case was stayed pending resolution of these proceedings before the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and the Court vacated all pending court dates and deadlines.  On January 30, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued its final written decisions on our petitions, invalidating all claims of the 456 patent that were asserted in the litigation.  On April 3, 2017, TQ Beta filed a notice of appeal.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patent, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

TQ Delta, LLC

On July 17, 2015, TQ Delta, LLC (“TQ Delta”) filed a complaint against us and our wholly-owned subsidiaries DISH DBS Corporation and DISH Network L.L.C. in the United States District Court for the District of Delaware.  The Complaint alleges infringement of United States Patent No. 6,961,369 (the “369 patent”), which is entitled “System and Method for Scrambling the Phase of the Carriers in a Multicarrier Communications System”; United States Patent No. 8,718,158 (the “158 patent”), which is entitled “System and Method for Scrambling the Phase of the Carriers in a Multicarrier Communications System”; United States Patent No. 9,014,243 (the “243 patent”), which is entitled “System and Method for Scrambling Using a Bit Scrambler and a Phase Scrambler”; United States Patent No.7,835,430 (the “430 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Modulation Messaging for Frequency Domain Received Idle Channel Noise Information”; United States Patent No. 8,238,412 (the “412 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Modulation Messaging for Power Level per Subchannel Information”; United States Patent No. 8,432,956 (the “956 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Modulation Messaging for Power Level per Subchannel Information”; and United States Patent No. 8,611,404 (the “404 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Transmission System with Low Power Sleep Mode and Rapid-On Capability.”  On September 9, 2015, TQ Delta filed a first amended complaint that added allegations of infringement of United States Patent No. 9,094,268 (the “268 patent”), which is entitled “Multicarrier Transmission System With Low Power Sleep Mode and Rapid-On Capability.”  On May 16, 2016, TQ Delta filed a second amended complaint that added EchoStar Corporation and its then wholly-owned subsidiary EchoStar Technologies L.L.C. as defendants.  TQ Delta alleges that our satellite TV service, Internet service, set-top boxes, gateways, routers, modems, adapters and networks that operate in accordance with one or more Multimedia over Coax Alliance Standards infringe the asserted patents.  TQ Delta has filed actions in the same court alleging infringement of the same patents against Comcast Corp., Cox Communications, Inc., DirecTV, Time Warner Cable Inc. and Verizon Communications, Inc.  TQ Delta is an entity that seeks to license an acquired patent portfolio without itself practicing any of the claims recited therein.  Trial has been set for November 13, 2017.  On July 14, 2016, TQ Delta stipulated to dismiss with prejudice all claims related to the 369 patent and the 956 patent.  On July 20, 2016, we filed petitions with the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of all of the patent claims of the 404 patent and the 268 patent that have been asserted against us.  Third parties have filed petitions with the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of all of the patent claims that have been asserted against us in the action.  On November 4, 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on the third-party petitions related to the 158 patent, the 243 patent, the 412 patent and the 430 patent.  On December 20, 2016, pursuant to a stipulation of the parties, the Court stayed the case until the resolution of all petitions to the United States Patent and Trademark Office challenging the validity of all of the patent claims at issue.  On January 19, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted our motions to join the instituted petitions on the 430 and 158 patents.  On February 9, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petition related to the 404 patent, and on February 13, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office agreed to institute proceedings on our petition related to the 268 patent.  On February 27, 2017, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted our motions to join the instituted petitions on the 243 and 412 patents.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  In the event that a court ultimately determines that we infringe the asserted patents, we may be subject to substantial damages, which may include treble damages, and/or an injunction that could require us to materially modify certain features that we currently offer to consumers.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of the suit or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Vermont National Telephone Company

On September 23, 2016, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia unsealed a qui tam complaint that was filed by Vermont National against us; our wholly-owned subsidiaries, American AWS-3 Wireless I L.L.C., American II, American III, and DISH Wireless Holding L.L.C.; Charles W. Ergen (our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer) and Cantey M. Ergen (a member of our board of directors); Northstar Wireless; Northstar Spectrum; Northstar Manager; SNR Wireless; SNR HoldCo; SNR Management; and certain other parties.  The complaint was unsealed after the United States Department of Justice notified the Court that it had declined to intervene in the action.  The complaint is a civil action that was filed under seal on May 13, 2015 by Vermont National, which participated in the AWS-3 Auction through its wholly-owned subsidiary, VTel Wireless.  The complaint alleges violations of the federal civil False Claims Act (the “FCA”) based on, among other things, allegations that Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless falsely claimed bidding credits of 25% in the AWS-3 Auction when they were allegedly under the de facto control of DISH Network and, therefore, were not entitled to the bidding credits as designated entities under applicable FCC rules.  Vermont National seeks to recover on behalf of the United States government approximately $10 billion, which reflects the $3.3 billion in bidding credits that Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless claimed in the AWS-3 Auction, trebled under the FCA.  Vermont National also seeks civil penalties of not less than $5,500 and not more than $11,000 for each violation of the FCA.  On March 2, 2017, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia entered a stay of the litigation until such time as the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia issues its opinion in SNR Wireless LicenseCo, LLC, et al. v. F.C.C.  See “Commitments – DISH Network Non-Controlling Investments in the Northstar Entities and the SNR Entities Related to AWS-3 Wireless Spectrum Licenses” above for further information.

We intend to vigorously defend this case.  We cannot predict with any degree of certainty the outcome of this proceeding or determine the extent of any potential liability or damages.

Waste Disposal Inquiry

The California Attorney General and the Alameda County (California) District Attorney are investigating whether certain of our waste disposal policies, procedures and practices are in violation of the California Business and Professions Code and the California Health and Safety Code.  We expect that these entities will seek injunctive and monetary relief.  The investigation appears to be part of a broader effort to investigate waste handling and disposal processes of a number of industries.  While we are unable to predict the outcome of this investigation, we do not believe that the outcome will have a material effect on our results of operations, financial condition or cash flows.

Other

In addition to the above actions, we are subject to various other legal proceedings and claims that arise in the ordinary course of business, including, among other things, disputes with programmers regarding fees.  In our opinion, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to any of these actions is unlikely to materially affect our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity, though the outcomes could be material to our operating results for any particular period, depending, in part, upon the operating results for such period.

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Segment Reporting

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Segment Reporting

Segment Reporting

11.Segment Reporting

Operating segments are components of an enterprise for which separate financial information is available and regularly evaluated by the chief operating decision maker(s) of an enterprise.  Operating income is the primary measure used by our chief operating decision maker to evaluate segment operating performance.  We currently operate two primary business segments:  (1) Pay-TV and Broadband and (2) Wireless.  See Note 1 for further information.

All other and eliminations primarily include intersegment eliminations related to intercompany debt and the related interest income and interest expense, which are eliminated in consolidation.

The total assets, revenue and operating income by segment were as follows:

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Total assets:
Pay-TV and Broadband	$	28,641,709	$	26,980,276
Wireless (1)		22,996,599		17,814,382
Eliminations		(21,720,749)		(16,880,366)
Total assets	$	29,917,559	$	27,914,292

(1)  The increase as of June 30, 2017 was primarily related to the $4.711 billion payment to the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  See Note 10 for further information. 

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
		(In thousands)
Revenue:
Pay-TV and Broadband	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065
Wireless		—		—		—		—
Eliminations		—		—		—		—
Total revenue	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065
Operating income (loss):
Pay-TV and Broadband (1)	$	262,919	$	655,419	$	884,584	$	1,256,696
Wireless		(10,816)		(15,137)		(25,161)		(32,996)
Eliminations		—		—		—		—
Total operating income (loss)	$	252,103	$	640,282	$	859,423	$	1,223,700

(1) The decrease for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, respectively, primarily related to $296 million of “Litigation Expense.”  See Note 10 for further information.

Geographic Information.  Revenue is attributed to geographic regions based upon the location where the goods and services are provided.  All subscriber-related revenue was derived from the United States.  Substantially all of our long-lived assets reside in the United States.

The following table summarizes revenue by geographic region:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
Revenue:	2017		2016		2017		2016
		(In thousands)
United States	$	3,632,203	$	3,841,120	$	7,302,967	$	7,632,406
Canada and Mexico		11,429		23,471		21,026		59,659
Total revenue	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065

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Related Party Transactions

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions

12.Related Party Transactions

Related Party Transactions with EchoStar

Following the Spin-off, we and EchoStar have operated as separate publicly-traded companies and neither entity has any ownership interest in the other.  However, a substantial majority of the voting power of the shares of both companies is owned beneficially by Charles W. Ergen, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and by certain trusts established by Mr. Ergen for the benefit of his family.

In connection with and following the Spin-off, we and EchoStar have entered into certain agreements pursuant to which we obtain certain products, services and rights from EchoStar, EchoStar obtains certain products, services and rights from us, and we and EchoStar have indemnified each other against certain liabilities arising from our respective businesses.  In connection with the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar and certain of their subsidiaries entered into certain agreements covering, among other things, tax matters, employee matters, intellectual property matters and the provision of transitional services.  In addition, certain agreements that we had with EchoStar have terminated, and we entered into certain new agreements with EchoStar.  As the Share Exchange was a transaction between entities that are under common control, accounting rules require that our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of the Transferred Businesses for all periods presented, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange. Intercompany transactions between the Transferred Businesses and us, including, among others, the sale of set-top boxes and broadcast services from EchoStar to us, have been eliminated to the extent possible, including the margin EchoStar received on those sales.  See Note 2 for further information.  We also may enter into additional agreements with EchoStar in the future.  The following is a summary of the terms of our principal agreements with EchoStar that may have an impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

“Trade accounts receivable”

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, trade accounts receivable from EchoStar was $1 million and $2 million, respectively.  These amounts are recorded in “Trade accounts receivable” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

“Trade accounts payable”

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, trade accounts payable to EchoStar was $90 million and $276 million, respectively.  These amounts are recorded in “Trade accounts payable” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

“Equipment sales and other revenue”

During each of the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we received $1 million for services provided to EchoStar.  During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we received $1 million and $2 million, respectively, for services provided to EchoStar.  These amounts are recorded in “Equipment sales and other revenue” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these revenues are discussed below.

Real Estate Lease Agreements.  We have entered into lease agreements pursuant to which we lease certain real estate to EchoStar.  The rent on a per square foot basis for each of the leases is comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic areas, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.  The term of each lease is set forth below:

· El Paso Lease Agreement.  During 2012, we began leasing certain space at 1285 Joe Battle Blvd., El Paso, Texas to EchoStar for an initial period ending on August 1, 2015, which also provides EchoStar with renewal options for four consecutive three-year terms.  During the second quarter 2015, EchoStar exercised its first renewal option for a period ending on August 1, 2018.

· 90 Inverness Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, EchoStar leases certain space from us at 90 Inverness Circle East, Englewood, Colorado for a period ending in December 2022.  EchoStar has the option to renew this lease for four three-year periods.

· Cheyenne Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, EchoStar leases certain space from us at 530 EchoStar Drive, Cheyenne, Wyoming for a period ending in March 2019.  EchoStar has the option to renew this lease for thirteen one-year periods.

· Gilbert Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, EchoStar leases certain space from us at 801 N. DISH Dr., Gilbert, Arizona for a period ending in March 2019.  EchoStar has the option to renew this lease for thirteen one-year periods.

· American Fork Occupancy License Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we acquired the lease for certain space at 796 East Utah Valley Drive, American Fork, Utah, and we sublease certain space at this location to EchoStar for a period ending in August 2017.  During June 2017, EchoStar exercised its five-year renewal option for a period ending in August 2022.

Collocation and Antenna Space Agreements.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we entered into certain agreements pursuant to which we will provide certain collocation and antenna space to EchoStar through March 2022 at the following locations: Cheyenne, Wyoming; Gilbert, Arizona; New Braunfels, Texas; Monee, Illinois; and Englewood, Colorado.  EchoStar may terminate any of these agreements with 180 days’ prior written notice to us.  The fees for the services provided under these agreements depend, among other things, on the number of racks leased and/or antennas present at the location.

“Subscriber-related expenses”

During the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $22 million and $23 million, respectively, of subscriber-related expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $41 million and $47 million, respectively, of subscriber-related expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  These amounts are recorded in “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these expenses are discussed below.

Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement.  Effective October 1, 2012, dishNET Satellite Broadband L.L.C. (“dishNET Satellite Broadband”), our indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, and HNS entered into a Distribution Agreement (the “Distribution Agreement”) pursuant to which dishNET Satellite Broadband has the right, but not the obligation, to market, sell and distribute the HNS satellite Internet service (the “Service”).  dishNET Satellite Broadband pays HNS a monthly per subscriber wholesale service fee for the Service based upon the subscriber’s service level, and, beginning January 1, 2014, certain volume subscription thresholds.  The Distribution Agreement also provides that dishNET Satellite Broadband has the right, but not the obligation, to purchase certain broadband equipment from HNS to support the sale of the Service.  On February 20, 2014, dishNET Satellite Broadband and HNS amended the Distribution Agreement which, among other things, extended the initial term of the Distribution Agreement through March 1, 2024.  Thereafter, the Distribution Agreement automatically renews for successive one year terms unless either party gives written notice of its intent not to renew to the other party at least 180 days before the expiration of the then-current term.  Upon expiration or termination of the Distribution Agreement, the parties will continue to provide the Service to the then-current dishNET subscribers pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Distribution Agreement. 

For the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, under the Distribution Agreement we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of zero and $2 million, respectively.  For the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, under the Distribution Agreement we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of zero and $5 million, respectively.  These amounts are initially included in “Inventory” and are subsequently capitalized as “Property and equipment, net” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets or expensed as “Subscriber acquisition costs” or “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) when the equipment is deployed.  During the first quarter 2017, we decided to transition our wholesale arrangement with Hughes under the Distribution Agreement to an authorized representative arrangement and entered into the MSA with HNS.  See “Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement” below for further information.

“Satellite and transmission expenses”

For the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred expenses of $89 million and $88 million, respectively, for satellite capacity leased from EchoStar and telemetry, tracking and control and other professional services provided to us by EchoStar.  For each of the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred expenses of $178 million for satellite capacity leased from EchoStar and telemetry, tracking and control and other professional services provided to us by EchoStar.  EchoStar is a supplier of the vast majority of our transponder capacity.  These amounts are recorded in “Satellite and transmission expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these expenses are discussed below.

Satellite Capacity Leased from EchoStar. We have entered into certain satellite capacity agreements pursuant to which we lease certain capacity on certain satellites owned or leased by EchoStar.  The fees for the services provided under these satellite capacity agreements depend, among other things, upon the orbital location of the applicable satellite, the number of transponders that are leased on the applicable satellite and the length of the lease.  See “Pay-TV Satellites” in Note 8 for further information.  The term of each lease is set forth below:

· EchoStar VII, X, XI and XIV.  On March 1, 2014, we began leasing all available capacity from EchoStar on the EchoStar VII, X, XI and XIV satellites.  The term of each satellite capacity agreement generally terminates upon the earlier of:  (i) the end-of-life of the satellite; (ii) the date the satellite fails; or (iii) a certain date, which depends upon, among other things, the estimated useful life of the satellite.  We generally have the option to renew each satellite capacity agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end of the respective satellite’s life.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew such agreements will be exercised. 

· EchoStar IX.  We lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX.  Subject to availability, we generally have the right to continue to lease satellite capacity from EchoStar on EchoStar IX on a month-to-month basis.

· EchoStar XII.  The lease for EchoStar XII generally terminates upon the earlier of:  (i) the end-of-life or replacement of the satellite (unless we determine to renew on a year-to-year basis); (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponders on which service is being provided fails; or (iv) a certain date, which depends upon, among other things, the estimated useful life of the satellite, whether the replacement satellite fails at launch or in orbit prior to being placed into service and the exercise of certain renewal options.  This lease expires in September 2017.

· EchoStar XVI.  In December 2009, we entered into a transponder service agreement with EchoStar to lease all of the capacity on EchoStar XVI, a DBS satellite, after its service commencement date.  EchoStar XVI was launched in November 2012 to replace EchoStar XV at the 61.5 degree orbital location and is currently in service.  Effective December 21, 2012, we and EchoStar amended the transponder service agreement to, among other things, change the initial term to generally expire upon the earlier of:  (i) the end-of-life or replacement of the satellite; (ii) the date the satellite fails; (iii) the date the transponder(s) on which service is being provided under the agreement fails; or (iv) four years following the actual service commencement date.  In July 2016, we and EchoStar amended the transponder service agreement to, among other things, extend the initial term by one additional year and to reduce the term of the first renewal option by one year.  Prior to expiration of the initial term, we had the option to renew for an additional five-year period.  During May 2017, we exercised our first renewal option for an additional five-year period ending in January 2023.  We also have the option to renew for an additional five-year period prior to expiration of the first renewal period in January 2023.  There can be no assurance that the option to renew this agreement will be exercised.

Nimiq 5 Agreement.  During 2009, EchoStar entered into a fifteen-year satellite service agreement with Telesat Canada (“Telesat”) to receive service on all 32 DBS transponders on the Nimiq 5 satellite at the 72.7 degree orbital location (the “Telesat Transponder Agreement”).  During 2009, EchoStar also entered into a satellite service agreement (the “DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement”) with us, pursuant to which we currently receive service from EchoStar on all 32 of the DBS transponders covered by the Telesat Transponder Agreement.  We have also guaranteed certain obligations of EchoStar under the Telesat Transponder Agreement.  See discussion under “Guarantees” in Note 10.

Under the terms of the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement, we make certain monthly payments to EchoStar that commenced in September 2009 when the Nimiq 5 satellite was placed into service and continue through the service term.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement, the service term will expire ten years following the date the Nimiq 5 satellite was placed into service.  Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end-of-life of the Nimiq 5 satellite.  Upon in‑orbit failure or end-of-life of the Nimiq 5 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew the DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement.  During 2008, EchoStar entered into a ten-year satellite service agreement with SES Latin America S.A. (“SES”), which provides, among other things, for the provision by SES to EchoStar of service on 32 DBS transponders on the QuetzSat-1 satellite.  During 2008, EchoStar also entered into a transponder service agreement (“QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement”) with us pursuant to which we receive service from EchoStar on 24 DBS transponders.  QuetzSat-1 was launched on September 29, 2011 and was placed into service during the fourth quarter 2011 at the 67.1 degree orbital location while we and EchoStar explored alternative uses for the QuetzSat-1 satellite.  In the interim, EchoStar provided us with alternate capacity at the 77 degree orbital location.  During the first quarter 2013, we and EchoStar entered into an agreement pursuant to which we sublease five DBS transponders back to EchoStar.  In January 2013, QuetzSat-1 was moved to the 77 degree orbital location and we commenced commercial operations at that location in February 2013.

Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement, the initial service term will expire in November 2021.  Upon expiration of the initial term, we have the option to renew the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement on a year-to-year basis through the end-of-life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite.  Upon an in-orbit failure or end-of-life of the QuetzSat-1 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that any options to renew the QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement will be exercised or that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

103 Degree Orbital Location/SES-3.  In May 2012, EchoStar entered into a spectrum development agreement (the “103 Spectrum Development Agreement”) with Ciel Satellite Holdings Inc. (“Ciel”) to develop certain spectrum rights at the 103 degree orbital location (the “103 Spectrum Rights”).  In June 2013, we and EchoStar entered into a spectrum development agreement (the “DISH 103 Spectrum Development Agreement”) pursuant to which we may use and develop the 103 Spectrum Rights.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH 103 Spectrum Development Agreement, the term generally will continue for the duration of the 103 Spectrum Rights.

In connection with the 103 Spectrum Development Agreement, in May 2012, EchoStar also entered into a ten-year service agreement with Ciel pursuant to which EchoStar leases certain satellite capacity from Ciel on the SES-3 satellite at the 103 degree orbital location (the “103 Service Agreement”).  In June 2013, we and EchoStar entered into an agreement pursuant to which we lease certain satellite capacity from EchoStar on the SES-3 satellite (the “DISH 103 Service Agreement”).  Under the terms of the DISH 103 Service Agreement, we make certain monthly payments to EchoStar through the service term.  Unless earlier terminated under the terms and conditions of the DISH 103 Service Agreement, the initial service term will expire on the earlier of:  (i) the date the SES-3 satellite fails; (ii) the date the transponder(s) on which service was being provided under the agreement fails; or (iii) ten years following the actual service commencement date.  Upon in-orbit failure or end of life of the SES-3 satellite, and in certain other circumstances, we have certain rights to receive service from EchoStar on a replacement satellite.  There can be no assurance that we will exercise our option to receive service on a replacement satellite.

TT&C Agreement.  Effective January 1, 2012, we entered into a telemetry, tracking and control (“TT&C”) agreement pursuant to which we receive TT&C services from EchoStar for certain satellites for a period ending on December 31, 2016 (the “2012 TT&C Agreement”).  In November 2016, we and EchoStar amended the 2012 TT&C Agreement to extend the term thereof for one additional year until December 31, 2017.  The fees for services provided under the 2012 TT&C Agreement are calculated at either:  (i) a fixed fee; or (ii) cost plus a fixed margin, which will vary depending on the nature of the services provided.  We are able to terminate the 2012 TT&C Agreement for any reason upon 60 days notice.

DBSD North America Agreement.  On March 9, 2012, we completed the DBSD Transaction.  During the second quarter 2011, EchoStar acquired Hughes.  Prior to our acquisition of DBSD North America and EchoStar’s acquisition of Hughes, DBSD North America and HNS entered into an agreement pursuant to which HNS provides, among other things, hosting, operations and maintenance services for DBSD North America’s satellite gateway and associated ground infrastructure.  This agreement generally may be terminated by us at any time for convenience.

TerreStar Agreement.  On March 9, 2012, we completed the TerreStar Transaction.  Prior to our acquisition of substantially all the assets of TerreStar and EchoStar’s acquisition of Hughes, TerreStar and HNS entered into various agreements pursuant to which HNS provides, among other things, hosting, operations and maintenance services for TerreStar’s satellite gateway and associated ground infrastructure.  These agreements generally may be terminated by us at any time for convenience.

“General and administrative expenses”

During the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $12 million and $4 million, respectively, of general and administrative expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  During the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we incurred $15 million and $8 million, respectively, of general and administrative expenses for services provided to us by EchoStar.  These amounts are recorded in “General and administrative expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The agreements pertaining to these expenses are discussed below.

Real Estate Lease Agreements.  We have entered into lease agreements pursuant to which we lease certain real estate from EchoStar.  The rent on a per square foot basis for each of the leases is comparable to per square foot rental rates of similar commercial property in the same geographic area, and EchoStar is responsible for its portion of the taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance of the premises.  The term of each lease is set forth below:

· Meridian Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 9601 S. Meridian Blvd. in Englewood, Colorado is for a period ending on December 31, 2016.  In December 2016, we and EchoStar amended this lease to, among other things, extend the term thereof for one additional year until December 31, 2017.

· Santa Fe Lease Agreement.  The lease for all of 5701 S. Santa Fe Dr. in Littleton, Colorado was for a period ending on December 31, 2016.  In December 2016, we and EchoStar amended this lease to, among other things, extend the term thereof for one additional year until December 31, 2017.

· Cheyenne Lease Agreement.    The lease for certain space at 530 EchoStar Drive in Cheyenne, Wyoming is for a period ending on December 31, 2031.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, EchoStar transferred ownership of a portion of this property to us, and, effective March 1, 2017, we and EchoStar amended this lease agreement to (i) terminate the lease of certain space at the portion of the property that was transferred to us and (ii) provide for the continued lease to us of certain space at the portion of the property that EchoStar retained.

· 100 Inverness Lease Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we lease certain space from EchoStar at 100 Inverness Circle East, Englewood, Colorado for a period ending in December 2020.  This agreement may be terminated by either party upon 180 days’ prior notice. 

Professional Services Agreement.  Prior to 2010, in connection with the Spin-off, we entered into various agreements with EchoStar including the Transition Services Agreement, Satellite Procurement Agreement and Services Agreement, which all expired on January 1, 2010 and were replaced by a Professional Services Agreement.  During 2009, we and EchoStar agreed that EchoStar shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to receive the following services from us, among others, certain of which were previously provided under the Transition Services Agreement:  information technology, travel and event coordination, internal audit, legal, accounting and tax, benefits administration, program acquisition services and other support services.  Additionally, we and EchoStar agreed that we shall continue to have the right, but not the obligation, to engage EchoStar to manage the process of procuring new satellite capacity for us (previously provided under the Satellite Procurement Agreement) and receive logistics, procurement and quality assurance services from EchoStar (previously provided under the Services Agreement) and other support services.  The Professional Services Agreement renewed on January 1, 2017 for an additional one-year period until January 1, 2018 and renews automatically for successive one-year periods thereafter, unless terminated earlier by either party upon at least 60 days notice.  However, either party may terminate the Professional Services Agreement in part with respect to any particular service it receives for any reason upon at least 30 days notice.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, DISH Network and EchoStar amended the Professional Services Agreement to, among other things, provide certain transition services to each other related to the Share Exchange Agreement. 

Revenue for services provided by us to EchoStar under the Professional Services Agreement is recorded in “Equipment sales and other revenue” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

Other Agreements - EchoStar

Tax Sharing Agreement.  In connection with the Spin-off, we entered into a tax sharing agreement with EchoStar which governs our respective rights, responsibilities and obligations after the Spin-off with respect to taxes for the periods ending on or before the Spin-off.  Generally, all pre-Spin-off taxes, including any taxes that are incurred as a result of restructuring activities undertaken to implement the Spin-off, are borne by us, and we will indemnify EchoStar for such taxes.  However, we are not liable for and will not indemnify EchoStar for any taxes that are incurred as a result of the Spin-off or certain related transactions failing to qualify as tax-free distributions pursuant to any provision of Section 355 or Section 361 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) because of:  (i) a direct or indirect acquisition of any of EchoStar’s stock, stock options or assets; (ii) any action that EchoStar takes or fails to take; or (iii) any action that EchoStar takes that is inconsistent with the information and representations furnished to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) in connection with the request for the private letter ruling, or to counsel in connection with any opinion being delivered by counsel with respect to the Spin-off or certain related transactions.  In such case, EchoStar is solely liable for, and will indemnify us for, any resulting taxes, as well as any losses, claims and expenses.  The tax sharing agreement will only terminate after the later of the full period of all applicable statutes of limitations, including extensions, or once all rights and obligations are fully effectuated or performed.

We and EchoStar file combined income tax returns in certain states.  In 2015 and 2014, EchoStar earned and recognized a tax benefit for certain state income tax credits that EchoStar estimates it would be unable to utilize in the future if it had filed separately from us.  In addition, EchoStar earned and recognized tax benefits for certain federal income tax credits, a portion of which were allocated to us under IRS rules for affiliated companies.  We expect to utilize these tax credits to reduce our federal and state income tax payable in the future.  In accordance with accounting rules that apply to transfers of assets between entities under common control, we recorded a capital contribution of less than $1 million in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets for the year ended December 31, 2016 representing the amount that we estimate is more likely than not to be realized by us as a result of our utilization of these tax credits earned.  Any payments made to EchoStar related to the utilization of these credits will be recorded as a reduction to “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Tax Matters Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar entered into a Tax Matters Agreement, which governs certain rights, responsibilities and obligations with respect to taxes of the Transferred Businesses pursuant to the Share Exchange.  Generally, EchoStar is responsible for all tax returns and tax liabilities for the Transferred Businesses for periods prior to the Share Exchange, and we are responsible for all tax returns and tax liabilities for the Transferred Businesses from and after the Share Exchange.  Both we and EchoStar have made certain tax-related representations and are subject to various tax-related covenants after the consummation of the Share Exchange.  Both we and EchoStar have agreed to indemnify each other if there is a breach of any such tax representation or violation of any such tax covenant and that breach or violation results in the Share Exchange not qualifying for tax free treatment for the other party.  In addition, we have agreed to indemnify EchoStar if the Transferred Businesses are acquired, either directly or indirectly (e.g., via an acquisition of us), by one or more persons and such acquisition results in the Share Exchange not qualifying for tax free treatment.  The Tax Matters Agreement supplements the Tax Sharing Agreement described above, which continues in full force and effect.

TiVo.  On April 29, 2011, we and EchoStar entered into a settlement agreement with TiVo Inc. (“TiVo”).  The settlement resolved all pending litigation between us and EchoStar, on the one hand, and TiVo, on the other hand, including litigation relating to alleged patent infringement involving certain DISH digital video recorders, or DVRs.  Under the settlement agreement, all pending litigation was dismissed with prejudice and all injunctions that permanently restrain, enjoin or compel any action by us or EchoStar were dissolved.  We and EchoStar are jointly responsible for making payments to TiVo in the aggregate amount of $500 million, including an initial payment of $300 million and the remaining $200 million in six equal annual installments between 2012 and 2017.  Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements entered into in connection with the Spin-off of EchoStar from us, we made the initial payment to TiVo in May 2011, except for the contribution from EchoStar totaling approximately $10 million, representing an allocation of liability relating to EchoStar’s sales of DVR-enabled receivers to an international customer.  Future payments were allocated between us and EchoStar based on historical sales of certain licensed products, with us being responsible for 95% of each annual payment.  Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, we were responsible for EchoStar’s allocation of the final payment to TiVo, which was paid July 31, 2017.

Patent Cross-License Agreements.  In December 2011, we and EchoStar entered into separate patent cross-license agreements with the same third party whereby:  (i) EchoStar and such third-party licensed their respective patents to each other subject to certain conditions; and (ii) we and such third-party licensed our respective patents to each other subject to certain conditions (each, a “Cross-License Agreement”).  Each Cross License Agreement covers patents acquired by the respective party prior to January 1, 2017 and aggregate payments under both Cross-License Agreements total less than $10 million.  Each Cross License Agreement also contains an option to extend each Cross-License Agreement to include patents acquired by the respective party prior to January 1, 2022.  In December 2016, we and EchoStar independently exercised our respective options to extend each Cross-License Agreement.  The aggregate additional payments to such third-party was less than $3 million.  Since the aggregate payments under both Cross-License Agreements were based on the combined annual revenues of us and EchoStar, we and EchoStar agreed to allocate our respective payments to such third party based on our respective percentage of combined total revenue.

Rovi License Agreement.  On August 19, 2016, we entered into a ten-year patent license agreement (the “Rovi License Agreement”) with Rovi Corporation (“Rovi”) and, for certain limited purposes, EchoStar.  EchoStar is a party to the Rovi License Agreement solely with respect to certain provisions relating to the prior patent license agreement between EchoStar and Rovi.  There are no payments between us and EchoStar under the Rovi License Agreement.

Sale of Orange, New Jersey Properties. In October 2016, we and EchoStar sold two parcels of real estate owned separately by us and EchoStar in Orange, New Jersey to a third party pursuant to a purchase and sale agreement. Pursuant to the agreement, we and EchoStar separately received our respective payments from the buyer.

Invidi.   In November 2010 and April 2011, EchoStar made investments in Invidi in exchange for shares of Invidi’s Series D Preferred Stock.  In November 2016, we, DIRECTV, LLC, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of AT&T Inc., and Cavendish Square Holding B.V., an affiliate of WPP plc, entered into a series of agreements to acquire Invidi.  As a result of the transaction, EchoStar sold its ownership interest in Invidi on the same terms offered to the other shareholders of Invidi.  The transaction closed in January 2017.

Hughes Broadband Master Services Agreement.   During March 2017, DISH Network L.L.C. (“DNLLC”) and HNS entered into the MSA pursuant to which DNLLC, among other things: (i) has the right, but not the obligation, to market, promote and solicit orders for the Hughes broadband satellite service and related equipment; and (ii) installs Hughes service equipment with respect to activations generated by DNLLC.  Under the MSA, HNS will make certain payments to DNLLC for each Hughes service activation generated, and installation performed, by DNLLC.  Payments from HNS for services provided are recorded in “Subscriber-related revenue” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The MSA has an initial term of five years with automatic renewal for successive one year terms.  After the first anniversary of the MSA, either party has the ability to terminate the MSA, in whole or in part, for any reason upon at least 90 days’ notice to the other party.  Upon expiration or termination of the MSA, HNS will continue to provide the Hughes service to subscribers and make certain payments to DNLLC pursuant to the terms and conditions of the MSA.  For the three months ended June 30, 2017, we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of $3 million under the MSA.  For the six months ended June 30, 2017, we purchased broadband equipment from HNS of $10 million under the MSA. 

Employee Matters Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we and EchoStar entered into an Employee Matters Agreement that addresses the transfer of employees from EchoStar to us, including certain benefit and compensation matters and the allocation of responsibility for employee-related liabilities relating to current and past employees of the Transferred Businesses.  We assumed employee-related liabilities relating to the Transferred Businesses as part of the Share Exchange, except that EchoStar will be responsible for certain existing employee-related litigation as well as certain pre-Share Exchange compensation and benefits for employees transferring to us in connection with the Share Exchange.

Intellectual Property and Technology License Agreement.  In connection with the completion of the Share Exchange, effective March 1, 2017, we and EchoStar entered into an Intellectual Property and Technology License Agreement (“IPTLA”), pursuant to which we and EchoStar license to each other certain intellectual property and technology.  The IPTLA will continue in perpetuity, unless mutually terminated by the parties.  Pursuant to the IPTLA, EchoStar granted to us a license to its intellectual property and technology for use by us in connection with our continued operation of the Transferred Businesses acquired pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, including a limited license to use the “ECHOSTAR” trademark during a transition period.  EchoStar retains full ownership of the “ECHOSTAR” trademark.  In addition, we granted a license back to EchoStar for the continued use of all intellectual property and technology transferred to us pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement that is used in EchoStar’s retained businesses. 

Related Party Transactions with NagraStar L.L.C.

As a result of the completion of the Share Exchange on February 28, 2017, we own a 50% interest in NagraStar L.L.C. (“NagraStar”), a joint venture that is our primary provider of encryption and related security systems intended to assure that only authorized customers have access to our programming.  Certain payments related to NagraStar are recorded in “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  In addition, certain other payments are initially included in “Inventory” and are subsequently capitalized as “Property and equipment, net” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets or expensed as “Subscriber acquisition costs” or “Subscriber-related expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) when the equipment is deployed.  We record all payables in “Trade accounts payable” or “Other accrued expenses” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Our investment in NagraStar is accounted for using the equity method.

The table below summarizes our transactions with NagraStar:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Purchases (including fees):
Purchases from NagraStar	$	18,652	$	19,997	$	36,431	$	45,494

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Amounts Payable and Commitments:
Amounts payable to NagraStar	$	11,374	$	18,597
Commitments to NagraStar	$	4,917	$	2,716

Related Party Transactions with Dish Mexico

Dish Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. (“Dish Mexico”) is an entity that provides direct-to-home satellite services in Mexico, which is owned 49.0% by EchoStar.  We provide certain broadcast services and sell hardware such as digital set-top boxes and related components to Dish Mexico, which are recorded in “Equipment sales and other” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss). 

The table below summarizes our transactions with Dish Mexico:

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Sales:
Digital receivers and related components	$	312	$	10,176	$	1,183	$	32,730
Uplink services	$	975	$	1,016	$	1,998	$	2,025
	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Amounts Receivable:
Amounts receivable from Dish Mexico	$	1,307	$	13,516

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X for interim financial information.  Accordingly, these statements do not include all of the information and notes required for complete financial statements prepared under GAAP.  In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Our results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the full year.  For further information, refer to the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016.  Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

Principles of Consolidation

Principles of Consolidation

We consolidate all majority owned subsidiaries, investments in entities in which we have controlling influence and variable interest entities where we have been determined to be the primary beneficiary.  Minority interests are recorded as noncontrolling interests or redeemable noncontrolling interests.  See below for further information.  Non-consolidated investments are accounted for using the equity method when we have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of the investee.  When we do not have the ability to significantly influence the operating decisions of an investee, the cost method is used.  All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. 

On February 28, 2017, we and EchoStar and certain of our respective subsidiaries completed the transactions contemplated by the Share Exchange Agreement (the “Share Exchange Agreement”) that was previously entered into on January 31, 2017 (the “Share Exchange”).  Pursuant to the Share Exchange Agreement, among other things, EchoStar transferred to us certain assets and liabilities of the EchoStar technologies and EchoStar broadcasting businesses, consisting primarily of the businesses that design, develop and distribute digital set-top boxes, provide satellite uplinking services and develop and support streaming video technology, as well as certain investments in joint ventures, spectrum licenses, real estate properties and EchoStar’s ten percent non-voting interest in Sling TV Holding L.L.C. (the “Transferred Businesses”), and in exchange, we transferred to EchoStar the 6,290,499 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by EchoStar (the “EchoStar Tracking Stock”) and 81.128 shares of preferred tracking stock issued by Hughes Satellite Systems Corporation, a subsidiary of EchoStar (“HSSC”) (the “HSSC Tracking Stock,” and together with the EchoStar Tracking Stock, collectively, the “Tracking Stock”), that tracked the residential retail satellite broadband business of HNS.  In connection with the Share Exchange, we and EchoStar and certain of their subsidiaries entered into certain agreements covering, among other things, tax matters, employee matters, intellectual property matters and the provision of transitional services.  See Note 12 for further information.

As the Share Exchange was a transaction between entities that are under common control, accounting rules require that our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the results of the Transferred Businesses for all periods presented, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange.  We initially recorded the Transferred Businesses at EchoStar’s historical cost basis.  The difference between the historical cost basis of the Transferred Businesses and the net carrying value of the Tracking Stock is recorded in “Additional paid-in capital” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The results of the Transferred Businesses were prepared from separate records maintained by EchoStar for the periods prior to March 1, 2017, and may not necessarily be indicative of the conditions that would have existed, or the results of operations, if the Transferred Businesses had been operated on a combined basis with our subsidiaries.  The primary impacts to our financial statement presentation are as follows:

· Our investments in the EchoStar Tracking Stock and HSSC Tracking Stock are no longer included in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

· The assets and liabilities of the Transferred Businesses are recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, and the results of operations of the Transferred Businesses, including sales of set-top boxes to third parties, are recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).

· Sling TV Holding L.L.C., in which EchoStar held a 10% non-voting interest prior to the Share Exchange, is accounted for as though it was an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of DISH Network.

· Intercompany transactions between the Transferred Businesses and us, including, among others, the sale of set-top boxes and broadcast services from EchoStar to us, have been eliminated to the extent possible, including the margin EchoStar received on those sales.

Our subsequent annual and quarterly financial statements will include the results of the Transferred Businesses as described above for all periods presented in those financial statements, including periods prior to the completion of the Share Exchange.  The table below includes unaudited supplemental pro forma information for revenue and net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) as if the results of the Transferred Businesses were included for the three and six months ended June 30, 2016 and for the year ended December 31, 2016, respectively:  

		DISH Network   (as previously reported)		Adjustments Relating to the Transferred Businesses		DISH Network (as currently reported)
				(In thousands)
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	3,837,036	$	27,555	$	3,864,591
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	410,464	$	13,639	$	424,103
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	7,624,271	$	67,794	$	7,692,065
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	799,754	$	24,240	$	823,994
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016:
Total revenue	$	15,094,562	$	117,740	$	15,212,302
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	1,449,853	$	48,086	$	1,497,939

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Northstar Wireless.  Northstar Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northstar Spectrum, which is an entity owned by Northstar Manager, LLC (“Northstar Manager”) and us.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, Northstar Spectrum is considered a variable interest entity and, based on the characteristics of the structure of this entity and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate Northstar Spectrum into our financial statements.  After the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless (and in certain circumstances, prior to the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless), Northstar Manager has the ability, but not the obligation, to require Northstar Spectrum to purchase Northstar Manager’s ownership interests in Northstar Spectrum (the “Northstar Put Right”) for a purchase price that generally equals its equity contribution to Northstar Spectrum plus a fixed annual rate of return.  In the event that the Northstar Put Right is exercised by Northstar Manager, the consummation of the sale will be subject to FCC approval.  Northstar Spectrum does not have a call right with respect to Northstar Manager’s ownership interests in Northstar Spectrum.  Although Northstar Manager is the sole manager of Northstar Spectrum, Northstar Manager’s ownership interest is considered temporary equity under the applicable accounting guidance and is thus recorded as part of “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in the mezzanine section of our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  Northstar Manager’s ownership interest in Northstar Spectrum was initially accounted for at fair value.  Subsequently, Northstar Manager’s ownership interest in Northstar Spectrum is increased by the fixed annual rate of return through “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The operating results of Northstar Spectrum attributable to Northstar Manager are recorded as “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  See Note 10 for further information.

SNR Wireless.  SNR Wireless is a wholly-owned subsidiary of SNR HoldCo, which is an entity owned by SNR Wireless Management, LLC (“SNR Management”) and us.  Under the applicable accounting guidance in ASC 810, SNR HoldCo is considered a variable interest entity and, based on the characteristics of the structure of this entity and in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, we consolidate SNR HoldCo into our financial statements.  After the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to SNR Wireless (and in certain circumstances, prior to the five-year anniversary of the grant of the AWS-3 Licenses to SNR Wireless), SNR Management has the ability, but not the obligation, to require SNR HoldCo to purchase SNR Management’s ownership interests in SNR HoldCo (the “SNR Put Right”) for a purchase price that generally equals its equity contribution to SNR HoldCo plus a fixed annual rate of return.  In the event that the SNR Put Right is exercised by SNR Management, the consummation of the sale will be subject to FCC approval.  SNR HoldCo does not have a call right with respect to SNR Management’s ownership interests in SNR HoldCo.  Although SNR Management is the sole manager of SNR HoldCo, SNR Management’s ownership interest is considered temporary equity under the applicable accounting guidance and is thus recorded as part of “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in the mezzanine section of our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  SNR Management’s ownership interest in SNR HoldCo was initially accounted for at fair value.  Subsequently, SNR Management’s ownership interest in SNR HoldCo is increased by the fixed annual rate of return through “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  The operating results of SNR HoldCo attributable to SNR Management are recorded as “Redeemable noncontrolling interests” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, with the offset recorded in “Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax” on our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss).  See Note 10 for further information.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense for each reporting period.  Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, allowances for doubtful accounts, self-insurance obligations, deferred taxes and related valuation allowances, uncertain tax positions, loss contingencies, fair value of financial instruments, fair value of options granted under our stock-based compensation plans, fair value of assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations, fair value of multi-element arrangements, capital leases, asset impairments, estimates of future cash flows used to evaluate impairments, useful lives of property, equipment and intangible assets, independent third-party retailer incentives, programming expenses and subscriber lives.  Economic conditions may increase the inherent uncertainty in the estimates and assumptions indicated above.  Actual results may differ from previously estimated amounts, and such differences may be material to our condensed consolidated financial statements.  Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected prospectively in the period they occur.

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment are stated at amortized cost less impairment losses, if any.  The costs of satellites under construction, including interest and certain amounts prepaid under our satellite service agreements, are capitalized during the construction phase, assuming the eventual successful launch and in-orbit operation of the satellite.  If a satellite were to fail during launch or while in-orbit, the resultant loss would be charged to expense in the period such loss was incurred.  The amount of any such loss would be reduced to the extent of insurance proceeds estimated to be received, if any.  Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over useful lives ranging from one to 40 years.  Repair and maintenance costs are charged to expense when incurred.  Renewals and improvements that add value or extend the asset’s useful life are capitalized.  Costs related to the procurement and development of software for internal-use are capitalized and amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software.

Cost of Sales – Equipment and Other

Cost of Sales – Equipment and Other

Costs include the cost of non-subsidized sales of DBS accessories and the cost of sales of digital receivers and related components to third-party pay-TV providers, both of which include freight and royalties.  Costs are generally recognized as products are delivered to customers and the related revenue is recognized. 

Capitalized Interest

Capitalized Interest

We capitalize interest associated with the acquisition or construction of certain assets, including, among other things, satellites and wireless spectrum licenses.  Capitalization of interest begins when, among other things, steps are taken to prepare the asset for its intended use and ceases when the asset is ready for its intended use or when these activities are substantially suspended.

We are currently preparing for the commercialization of our AWS-4, H Block and 600 MHz wireless spectrum licenses, and interest expense related to their carrying amount is being capitalized.  In addition, on October 27, 2015, the FCC granted certain AWS-3 Licenses to Northstar Wireless and to SNR Wireless, respectively, in which we have made certain non-controlling investments.  Northstar Wireless and SNR Wireless are preparing for the commercialization of their AWS-3 Licenses and began capitalizing interest related to those AWS-3 Licenses as of October 27, 2015.  We are preparing for the commercialization of our 600 MHz Licenses and began capitalizing interest related to these licenses as of June 14, 2017.  As the carrying amount of these licenses now exceeds the carrying value of our long-term debt, materially all of our interest expense is being capitalized as of June 14, 2017.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements

We determine fair value based on the exchange price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants.  Market or observable inputs are the preferred source of values, followed by unobservable inputs or assumptions based on hypothetical transactions in the absence of market inputs.  We apply the following hierarchy in determining fair value:

· Level 1, defined as observable inputs being quoted prices in active markets for identical assets;

· Level 2, defined as observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, including quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and derivative financial instruments indexed to marketable investment securities; and

· Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs for which little or no market data exists, consistent with reasonably available assumptions made by other participants therefore requiring assumptions based on the best information available.

As of June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the carrying amount for cash and cash equivalents, trade accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts) and current liabilities (excluding the “Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations”) is equal to or approximates fair value due to their short-term nature or proximity to current market rates.  See Note 6 for the fair value of our marketable investment securities and derivative financial instruments.

Fair values for our publicly traded debt securities are based on quoted market prices, when available.  The fair values of private debt are based on, among other things, available trade information, and/or an analysis in which we evaluate market conditions, related securities, various public and private offerings, and other publicly available information.  In performing this analysis, we make various assumptions regarding, among other things, credit spreads, and the impact of these factors on the value of the debt securities.  See Note 9 for the fair value of our long-term debt.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue when an arrangement exists, prices are determinable, collectability is reasonably assured and the goods or services have been delivered.

Revenue from our Pay-TV services is recognized when programming is broadcast to subscribers.  We recognize revenue from our broadband services when the service is provided.  Payments received from Pay-TV and Broadband subscribers in advance of the broadcast or service period are recorded as “Deferred revenue and other” in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets until earned.  Revenue from equipment sales generally is recognized upon shipment to customers. 

For certain of our promotions, subscribers are charged an upfront fee.  A portion of these fees may be deferred and recognized over the estimated subscriber life for new subscribers or the estimated remaining life for existing subscribers ranging from four to five years.  Revenue from advertising sales is recognized when the related services are performed.

Subscriber fees for DISH branded pay-TV equipment rental fees and other hardware related fees, including fees for DVRs, fees for broadband equipment and additional outlet fees, advertising services and fees earned from our in-home service operations are recognized as revenue as earned.  Generally, revenue from equipment sales, equipment upgrades and sales of streaming-capable devices for our Sling branded pay-TV services are recognized upon shipment to customers. 

Certain of our existing and new subscriber promotions include programming discounts.  Programming revenues are recorded as earned at the discounted monthly rate charged to the subscriber.

We offer our customers the opportunity to download movies for a specific viewing period or permanently purchase a movie from our website.  We recognize revenue when the movie is successfully downloaded by the customer, which, based on our current technology, occurs at the time the customer plays the movie for the first time.

Research and Development

Research and Development

Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.  Research and development costs totaled $9 million and $12 million for the three months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.  Research and development costs totaled $16 million and $24 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements

Revenue from Contracts with Customers.  On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASU 2014-09”), and has modified the standard thereafter.  On July 9, 2015, the FASB approved a one year deferral on the effective date for implementation of this standard, which changed the effective date for us to January 1, 2018. This converged standard on revenue recognition was issued jointly with the International Accounting Standards Board to create common revenue recognition guidance for GAAP and International Financial Reporting Standards.  ASU 2014-09 provides a framework for revenue recognition that replaces most existing GAAP revenue recognition guidance when it becomes effective.  ASU 2014-09 allows for either a full retrospective or modified retrospective adoption.  We are evaluating the effect that ASU 2014-09 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.  We have not yet selected an adoption method.  While we have not determined the effect of the standard on our ongoing financial reporting, we believe that the standard will, among other things, change the allocation and timing of when revenue is recognized for those customers who have a contractual commitment to receive service for a minimum term, including time-limited discounts or free service periods.  Under current accounting rules, we recognize revenue net of discounts during the promotional periods and do not recognize any revenue during free service periods.  Under ASU 2014-09, revenue recognition will be accelerated for these contracts as the impact of discounts or free service periods that are considered performance obligations will be recognized uniformly over the total contractual period.  In addition, the standard will require that incremental costs to obtain a customer, which represent a significant portion of our non-advertising subscriber acquisition costs, be deferred and recognized over the expected customer life, whereas our current policy is to expense these costs as incurred.  As the new standard will impact revenue and cost recognition for a significant number of our contracts, as well as our business processes and information technology systems, our evaluation of the effect of the new standard is ongoing.  We are currently in the process of identifying and implementing changes to our systems, processes, and internal controls to meet the requirements of the standard.  The ultimate impact of adopting ASU 2014-09 for both revenue recognition and costs to obtain and fulfill contracts will depend on the promotions and offers in placeduring the period leading up to and after the adoptionof ASU 2014-09.

Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. On January 5, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-01 Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (“ASU 2016-01”),  which amends certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments.  This amendment requires all equity investments to be measured at fair value with changes in the fair value recognized through net income (other than those accounted for under equity method of accounting or those that result in consolidation of the investee).  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-01 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Leases.    On February 25, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02 Leases (“ASU 2016-02”), which relates to the accounting of leasing transactions.  This standard requires a lessee to record on the balance sheet the assets and liabilities for the rights and obligations created by leases with lease terms of more than 12 months.  In addition, this standard requires both lessees and lessors to disclose certain key information about lease transactions.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-02 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Financial Instruments – Credit Losses.On June 16, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13 Financial Instruments – Credit Losses, Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASU 2016-13”), which changes the way entities measure credit losses for most financial assets and certain other instruments that are not measured at fair value through net earnings.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-13 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

Statement of Cash Flows - Update.On August 26, 2016, the FASB issued 2016-15 Statement of Cash Flows: Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments (“ASU 2016-15”).  This update consists of eight provisions that provide guidance on the classification of certain cash receipts and cash payments.  If practicable, this update should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented.  For the provisions that are impracticable to apply retrospectively, those provisions may be applied prospectively as of the earliest date practicable.  This update will become effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We are evaluating the impact the adoption of ASU 2016-15 will have on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Statement of Cash Flows:  Restricted Cash.  On November 17, 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-18 Restricted Cash (“ASU 2016-18”),  which addresses the diversity where changes in restricted cash are classified on the cash flow statement.  ASU 2016-18 requires that changes in restricted cash and cash equivalents be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts on the statement of cash flows.  This standard will be effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years.  Early adoption is permitted.  We expect that the adoption of ASU 2016-18 will have an immaterial impact on our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and related disclosures.

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Pro Forma Information

		DISH Network   (as previously reported)		Adjustments Relating to the Transferred Businesses		DISH Network (as currently reported)
				(In thousands)
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	3,837,036	$	27,555	$	3,864,591
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	410,464	$	13,639	$	424,103
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2016:
Total revenue	$	7,624,271	$	67,794	$	7,692,065
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	799,754	$	24,240	$	823,994
For the Year Ended December 31, 2016:
Total revenue	$	15,094,562	$	117,740	$	15,212,302
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$	1,449,853	$	48,086	$	1,497,939

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Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share

Table presents EPS amounts for all periods and the basic and diluted weighted-average shares outstanding used in the calculation

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net income (loss)	$	58,762	$	438,062	$	448,837	$	850,006
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax		18,646		13,959		33,006		26,012
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network - Basic		40,116		424,103		415,831		823,994
Interest on dilutive Convertible Notes, net of tax		—		—		30,125		—
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network - Diluted	$	40,116	$	424,103	$	445,956	$	823,994
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock:
Basic		466,019		464,803		465,717		464,589
Dilutive impact of Convertible Notes		—		—		53,152		—
Dilutive impact of stock awards outstanding		916		837		992		840
Diluted		466,935		465,640		519,861		465,429
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.89	$	1.77
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network	$	0.09	$	0.91	$	0.86	$	1.77

Schedule of dilutive securities not included in the diluted EPS calculation

	As of June 30,
	2017	2016
	(In thousands)
Anti-dilutive stock awards	1,536	1,826
Performance based options (1)	6,896	4,379
Restricted Performance Units	1,281	1,370
Common stock warrants	46,029	—
Total	55,742	7,575

(1) The increase in performance based options as of June 30, 2017 primarily resulted from the issuance of stock option awards as of January 1, 2017 under a long-term, performance-based stock incentive plan adopted on December 2, 2016 (the “2017 LTIP”).

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Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows

Schedule of supplemental cash flow and other non-cash data

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest)	$	496,644	$	414,130
Cash received for interest		4,760		9,478
Cash paid for income taxes (1)		20,427		211,529
Capitalized interest (2)		488,123		382,458
Initial equity component of the 2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024, net of deferred taxes of $91,485 (3)		160,896		—
Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock		23,134		24,984
Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations		—		7,510

(1) As a result of, among other things, the FCC granting our application to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses and less estimated taxable income during 2017, cash paid for income taxes is expected to be significantly lower than in prior periods.

(2) See Note 2 for further information.

(3) See Note 9 for further information.

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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

Schedule of tax effects allocated to component of other comprehensive income (loss)

	For the Three Months Ended June 30,
	2017						2016
	Before		Tax		Net		Before		Tax		Net
	Tax		(Expense)		of Tax		Tax		(Expense)		of Tax
	Amount		Benefit		Amount		Amount		Benefit		Amount
	(In thousands)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	639	$	—	$	639	$	—	$	—	$	—
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities		801		(290)		511		2,497		(916)		1,581
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)		(630)		228		(402)		(28,953)		10,155		(18,798)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	810	$	(62)	$	748	$	(26,456)	$	9,239	$	(17,217)

	For the Six Months Ended June 30,
	2017						2016
	Before		Tax		Net		Before		Tax		Net
	Tax		(Expense)		of Tax		Tax		(Expense)		of Tax
	Amount		Benefit		Amount		Amount		Benefit (1)		Amount
	(In thousands)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	846	$	—	$	846	$	—	$	—	$	—
Unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities		6,965		(2,559)		4,406		(104)		38		(66)
Recognition of previously unrealized (gains) losses on available-for-sale securities included in net income (loss)		(634)		233		(401)		(93,643)		34,118		(59,525)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	7,177	$	(2,326)	$	4,851	$	(93,747)	$	34,156	$	(59,591)

Schedule of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

		Foreign		Unrealized/
		Currency		Recognized
		Translation		Gains
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)		Adjustment		(Losses)	Total
	(In thousands)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	—	$	781	$	781
Foreign currency translation adjustments		846		—		846
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassification		—		4,406		4,406
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		—		(401)		(401)
Balance as of June 30, 2017	$	846	$	4,786	$	5,632

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Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities

Schedule of marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Marketable investment securities:
Current marketable investment securities - strategic	$	12,763	$	6,721
Current marketable investment securities - other		7,797		28,895
Total current marketable investment securities		20,560		35,616
Restricted marketable investment securities (1)		81,277		81,679
Total marketable investment securities		101,837		117,295
Restricted cash and cash equivalents (1)		156		681
Other investment securities:
Other investment securities - equity method		111,600		25,098
Other investment securities - cost method		8,150		8,150
Total other investment securities		119,750		33,248
Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents, and other investment securities	$	221,743	$	151,224

(1) Restricted marketable investment securities and restricted cash and cash equivalents are included in “Restricted cash, cash equivalents and marketable investment securities” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Schedule of components of available-for-sale investments

	As of June 30, 2017								As of December 31, 2016
	Marketable								Marketable
	Investment		Unrealized						Investment		Unrealized
	Securities		Gains		Losses		Net		Securities		Gains		Losses		Net
	(In thousands)
Debt securities (including restricted):
U.S. Treasury and agency securities	$	81,724	$	—	$	(180)	$	(180)	$	81,982	$	13	$	(132)	$	(119)
Corporate securities		19,606		7,728		(4)		7,724		33,555		1,327		—		1,327
Other		507		60		(11)		49		1,758		64		(11)		53
Total	$	101,837	$	7,788	$	(195)	$	7,593	$	117,295	$	1,404	$	(143)	$	1,261

Schedule of available-for-sale securities in continuous unrealized loss position by length of time and their fair value

	As of
	June 30, 2017				December 31, 2016
	Fair		Unrealized		Fair		Unrealized
	Value		Loss		Value		Loss
	(In thousands)
Debt Securities:
Less than 12 months	$	55,538	$	(158)	$	52,011	$	(132)
12 months or more		24,580		(37)		1,537		(11)
Total	$	80,118	$	(195)	$	53,548	$	(143)

Schedule of fair value measurements

	As of
	June 30, 2017								December 31, 2016
	Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3		Total		Level 1		Level 2		Level 3
	(In thousands)
Cash equivalents (including restricted)	$	2,302,508	$	109,313	$	2,193,195	$	—	$	5,187,900	$	147,494	$	5,040,406	$	—
Debt securities (including restricted):
U.S. Treasury and agency securities	$	81,724	$	81,724	$	—	$	—	$	81,982	$	81,982	$	—	$	—
Corporate securities		19,606		—		7,030		12,576		33,555		—		27,025		6,530
Other		507		—		320		187		1,758		—		1,567		191
Total	$	101,837	$	81,724	$	7,350	$	12,763	$	117,295	$	81,982	$	28,592	$	6,721

Schedule of changes in Level 3 instruments

	Level 3
	Investment
	Securities
	(In thousands)
Balance as of December 31, 2016	$	6,721
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in earnings		—
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)		6,423
Purchases		—
Sales		(290)
Settlements		(91)
Issuances		—
Transfers into or out of Level 3		—
Balance as of June 30, 2017	$	12,763

Schedule of gains and losses on sales and changes in carrying values of investments

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
Other Income (Expense):	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Marketable investment securities - gains (losses) on sales/exchanges	$	2,487	$	29,868	$	4,759	$	108,521
Derivative financial instruments - net realized and/or unrealized gains (losses)		—		17,078		—		5,405
Marketable investment securities - other-than-temporary impairments		—		(914)		—		(914)
Other		680		(656)		3,153		(719)
Total	$	3,167	$	45,376	$	7,912	$	112,293

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Inventory (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Inventory

Schedule of inventory

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
		(In thousands)
Finished goods	$	247,289	$	282,569
Work-in-process and service repairs		117,593		129,512
Raw materials		8,794		10,268
Total inventory	$	373,676	$	422,349

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Property and Equipment (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets

Schedule of property and equipment

	Depreciable			As of
	Life			June 30,		December 31,
	(In Years)			2017		2016
				(In thousands)
Equipment leased to customers	2	-	5	$	2,505,046	$	2,720,695
EchoStar XV			15		277,658		277,658
EchoStar XVIII			15		411,255		411,255
D1		N/A			55,000		55,000
T1			15		401,721		401,721
Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements	10	-	15		499,819		499,819
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other	1	-	10		1,728,578		1,639,051
Buildings and improvements	1	-	40		291,476		288,992
Land			—		14,057		14,057
Construction in progress			—		60,747		88,235
Total property and equipment					6,245,357		6,396,483
Accumulated depreciation					(3,797,412)		(3,742,212)
Property and equipment, net				$	2,447,945	$	2,654,271

Schedule of depreciation and amortization expense

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Equipment leased to customers	$	145,603	$	181,431	$	281,737	$	348,611
Satellites		29,414		21,957		58,426		43,913
Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other		36,654		36,197		76,138		74,627
Total depreciation and amortization	$	211,671	$	239,585	$	416,301	$	467,151

Schedule of pay-TV satellite fleet

			Estimated
			Useful Life
		Degree	(Years)/Lease
	Launch	Orbital	Termination
Satellites	Date	Location	Date
Owned:
EchoStar XV	July 2010	61.5	15
EchoStar XVIII	June 2016	61.5	15
Leased from EchoStar (1):
EchoStar VII (2)	February 2002	119	June 2018
EchoStar IX	August 2003	121	Month to month
EchoStar X (2)	February 2006	110	February 2021
EchoStar XI (2)	July 2008	110	September 2021
EchoStar XII	July 2003	61.5	September 2017
EchoStar XIV (2)	March 2010	119	February 2023
EchoStar XVI (3)	November 2012	61.5	January 2023
Nimiq 5	September 2009	72.7	September 2019
QuetzSat-1	September 2011	77	November 2021
Leased from Other Third Party:
Anik F3	April 2007	118.7	April 2022
Ciel II	December 2008	129	January 2019

(1) See Note 12 for further information on our Related Party Transactions with EchoStar.

(2) We generally have the option to renew each lease on a year-to-year basis through the end of the useful life of the respective satellite. 

(3) We have the option to renew this lease for an additional five-year period.

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Long-Term Debt (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Long-Term Debt

Schedule of carrying and fair values of the entity's debt facilities

	As of
	June 30, 2017				December 31, 2016
	Carrying Amount		Fair Value		Carrying Amount		Fair Value
	(In thousands)
4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017 (1)	$	900,000	$	902,016	$	900,000	$	913,887
4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 (2)		1,200,000		1,215,768		1,200,000		1,228,464
7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019		1,400,000		1,542,282		1,400,000		1,559,698
5 1/8% Senior Notes due 2020		1,100,000		1,152,580		1,100,000		1,141,866
6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021		2,000,000		2,223,020		2,000,000		2,178,880
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022		2,000,000		2,155,060		2,000,000		2,114,780
5% Senior Notes due 2023		1,500,000		1,543,725		1,500,000		1,500,315
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2024		2,000,000		2,135,280		2,000,000		2,064,000
2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024		1,000,000		1,052,950		—		—
7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2026		2,000,000		2,369,240		2,000,000		2,270,900
3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026		3,000,000		3,628,530		3,000,000		3,431,130
Other notes payable		46,809		46,809		47,844		47,844
Subtotal		18,146,809	$	19,967,260		17,147,844	$	18,451,764
Unamortized debt discount on the Convertible Notes		(968,738)				(752,386)
Unamortized deferred financing costs and other debt discounts, net		(51,830)				(52,704)
Capital lease obligations (3)		121,787				140,885
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)	$	17,248,028			$	16,483,639

(1) On July 17, 2017, we redeemed the principal balance of our 4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017.

(2) Our 4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018 mature on April 1, 2018 and have been reclassified to “Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations” on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2017.

(3) Disclosure regarding fair value of capital leases is not required.

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Segment Reporting (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

Segment Reporting

Schedule of assets, revenue, and operating income by segment

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Total assets:
Pay-TV and Broadband	$	28,641,709	$	26,980,276
Wireless (1)		22,996,599		17,814,382
Eliminations		(21,720,749)		(16,880,366)
Total assets	$	29,917,559	$	27,914,292

(1)  The increase as of June 30, 2017 was primarily related to the $4.711 billion payment to the FCC to acquire the 600 MHz Licenses.  See Note 10 for further information. 

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
		(In thousands)
Revenue:
Pay-TV and Broadband	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065
Wireless		—		—		—		—
Eliminations		—		—		—		—
Total revenue	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065
Operating income (loss):
Pay-TV and Broadband (1)	$	262,919	$	655,419	$	884,584	$	1,256,696
Wireless		(10,816)		(15,137)		(25,161)		(32,996)
Eliminations		—		—		—		—
Total operating income (loss)	$	252,103	$	640,282	$	859,423	$	1,223,700

(1) The decrease for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017, respectively, primarily related to $296 million of “Litigation Expense.”  See Note 10 for further information.

Schedule of revenue by geographical region

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
Revenue:	2017		2016		2017		2016
		(In thousands)
United States	$	3,632,203	$	3,841,120	$	7,302,967	$	7,632,406
Canada and Mexico		11,429		23,471		21,026		59,659
Total revenue	$	3,643,632	$	3,864,591	$	7,323,993	$	7,692,065

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Related Party Transactions (Tables)

6 Months Ended

Jun. 30, 2017

NagraStar

Schedule of transactions with related party

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Purchases (including fees):
Purchases from NagraStar	$	18,652	$	19,997	$	36,431	$	45,494

	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Amounts Payable and Commitments:
Amounts payable to NagraStar	$	11,374	$	18,597
Commitments to NagraStar	$	4,917	$	2,716

Dish Mexico

Schedule of transactions with related party

	For the Three Months				For the Six Months
	Ended June 30,				Ended June 30,
	2017		2016		2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Sales:
Digital receivers and related components	$	312	$	10,176	$	1,183	$	32,730
Uplink services	$	975	$	1,016	$	1,998	$	2,025
	As of
	June 30,		December 31,
	2017		2016
	(In thousands)
Amounts Receivable:
Amounts receivable from Dish Mexico	$	1,307	$	13,516

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Organization and Business Activities (Details) $ in Thousands			6 Months Ended	84 Months Ended	114 Months Ended
	May 11, 2017 USD ($)	Jul. 01, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) segment state item	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Apr. 13, 2017 USD ($) item	Feb. 28, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Spectrum Investments
Number of primary operating business units | segment			2
Number of Pay-TV subscribers | item			13,332,000		13,332,000
Number of subscribers for broadband services under the dishNET brand | item			509,000		509,000
Number of states in which wireline broadband services offered | state			34
Number of state region in which wireline voice and broadband services are offered | state			14
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets				$ 11,000,000	$ 21,000,000
EchoStar | Sling TV Holding L.L.C.
Spectrum Investments
Non voting interest							10.00%
Wireless
Spectrum Investments
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets					11,000,000
Auction 1000 [Member] | FCC Wireless Bureau [Member]
Spectrum Investments
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets		$ 1,500,000
Payment Of Winning Bid Remaining Balance	$ 4,711,000
Auction 1000 [Member] | ParkerB.com
Spectrum Investments
Wireless Spectrum Licenses | item						486
Aggregate Bid Price						$ 6,211,000
Northstar Spectrum And SNR Holdco
Spectrum Investments
Total debt and equity investments in subsidaries			$ 10,000		$ 10,000			$ 10,000,000
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | Northstar Licenses
Spectrum Investments
Wireless Spectrum Licenses | item			261		261

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Feb. 28, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Research and Development
Research and Development Expense		$ 9	$ 12	$ 16	$ 24
Minimum
Property and Equipment
Estimated Useful Life				1 year
Revenue Recognition
Period of deferral for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred				4 years
Maximum
Property and Equipment
Estimated Useful Life				40 years
Revenue Recognition
Period of deferral for the portion of subscriber fees that are deferred				5 years
Northstar Manager LLC
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				5 years
SNR Wireless Management LLC
Variable Interest Entity
Number of years after wireless spectrum license is granted until put right vests				5 years
Sling TV Holding L.L.C. | EchoStar
Accounting policy disclosures
Nonvoting Interest Prior To Share Exchange				10.00%
Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction | DISH Investors | EchoStar
Accounting policy disclosures
Preferred tracking stock issued by related party	6,290,499
Satellite and Tracking Stock Transaction | DISH Investors | HSSC
Accounting policy disclosures
Preferred tracking stock issued by related party	81.128

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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Pro Forma Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Revenues		$ 3,864,591		$ 7,692,065	$ 15,212,302
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	$ 40,116	424,103	$ 415,831	823,994	1,497,939
As Previously Reported
Revenues		3,837,036		7,624,271	15,094,562
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network		410,464		799,754	1,449,853
Transferred Businesses
Revenues		27,555		67,794	117,740
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network		$ 13,639		$ 24,240	$ 48,086

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Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Net income (loss)	$ 58,762	$ 438,062	$ 448,837	$ 850,006
Less: Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest, net of tax	18,646	13,959	33,006	26,012
Net income (loss) attributable to DISH Network	40,116	424,103	415,831	823,994	$ 1,497,939
Interest on dilutive Convertible Notes, net of tax			30,125
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted, Total	$ 40,116	$ 424,103	$ 445,956	$ 823,994
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - Class A and B common stock:
Basic (in shares)	466,019	464,803	465,717	464,589
Dilutive impact of Convertible Notes (in shares)			53,152
Dilutive impact of stock awards outstanding (in shares)	916	837	992	840
Diluted (in shares)	466,935	465,640	519,861	465,429
Earnings per share - Class A and B common stock:
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share)	$ 0.09	$ 0.91	$ 0.89	$ 1.77
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to DISH Network (in dollars per share)	$ 0.09	$ 0.91	$ 0.86	$ 1.77
3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026
Interest rate (as a percent)	3.375%		3.375%		3.375%

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Basic and Diluted Net Income (Loss) Per Share - Performance based stock (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share
Strike price of the warrants	$ 86.08
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	55,742	7,575
Class A common stock
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share
Strike price of the warrants	$ 0.01		$ 0.01
Anti-dilutive stock awards
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	1,536	1,826
Performance based options
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	6,896	4,379
Restricted Performance Units
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	1,281	1,370
Common stock warrants
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share
Dilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share	46,029

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Supplemental Data - Statements of Cash Flows (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Additional Cash Flow Elements and Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Cash paid for interest (including capitalized interest)	$ 496,644	$ 414,130
Cash received for interest	4,760	9,478
Cash paid for income taxes	20,427	211,529
Capitalized interest	488,123	382,458
Employee benefits paid in Class A common stock	$ 23,134	24,984
Satellites and other assets financed under capital lease obligations		$ 7,510
2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024
Additional Cash Flow Elements and Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Interest rate (as a percent)	2.375%		2.375%
Initial equity component of the 2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024, net of deferred taxes of $91,485	$ 160,896
Deferred taxes	$ 91,485

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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Other comprehensive income (loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax amount
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax amount	$ 810	$ (26,456)	$ 7,177	$ (93,747)
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax (expense) benefit
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax (expense) benefit	(62)	9,239	(2,326)	34,156
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	748	(17,217)	4,851	(59,591)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax amount
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, before tax	639		846
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, net of tax	639		846
Unrealized/Recognized Gains (Losses)
Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax amount
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, before tax	801	2,497	6,965	(104)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), before tax	(630)	(28,953)	(634)	(93,643)
Other comprehensive income (loss), tax (expense) benefit
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, tax (expense) benefit	(290)	(916)	(2,559)	38
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), tax (expense) benefit	228	10,155	233	34,118
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Other comprehensive income (loss), before reclassifications, net of tax	511	1,581	4,406	(66)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	$ (402)	$ (18,798)	$ (401)	$ (59,525)

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Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at beginning of period, net		$ 781
Foreign currency translation adjustments	$ 639	846
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications		4,406
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(401)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at end of period, net	5,632	5,632
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Foreign currency translation adjustments		846
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at end of period, net	846	846
Unrealized/Recognized Gains (Losses)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at beginning of period, net		781
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications		4,406
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)		(401)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), balance at end of period, net	$ 4,786	$ 4,786

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Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities
Current marketable investment securities	$ 20,560	$ 35,616
Restricted marketable investment securities	81,277	81,679
Total marketable investment securities	101,837	117,295
Restricted cash and cash equivalents	156	681
Total other investment securities	119,750	33,248
Total marketable investment securities, restricted cash and cash equivalents and other investment securities	221,743	151,224
Current marketable investment securities - strategic
Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities
Current marketable investment securities	12,763	6,721
Current marketable investment securities - other
Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities
Current marketable investment securities	7,797	28,895
Other investment securities
Marketable investment securities, restricted cash and other investment securities
Equity method investments	111,600	25,098
Cost method investments	$ 8,150	$ 8,150

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Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities - Narrative (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Feb. 28, 2017
Commercial paper | Maximum
Other investment securities:
Debt term of Maturity	365 days
Unsecured Debt Term Of Maturity	365 days
Corporate securities | Maximum
Other investment securities:
Debt term of Maturity	18 months
Unsecured Debt Term Of Maturity	18 months
NagraStar
Other investment securities:
Ownership interest (as a percent)		50.00%

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Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities - Unrealized Gain (Losses) On Marketable Investment Securities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Components of our available-for-sale investments
Debt securities	$ 101,837	$ 117,295
Debt securities	20,560	35,616
Total marketable investment securities	101,837	117,295
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities
Unrealized Gains	7,788	1,404
Unrealized Losses	(195)	(143)
Unrealized Gains Losses, Net	7,593	1,261
Contractual maturities of restricted and non-restricted marketable investment securities
Debt securities with contractual maturities within one year	75,000
Debt securities with contractual maturities extending longer than one year through and including five years	27,000
Accumulated net unrealized gains (losses)
Accumulated net unrealized gains, before tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	8,000	1,000
Accumulated net unrealized gains, net of tax, in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)	5,000	1,000
US Treasury and agency securities
Components of our available-for-sale investments
Debt securities	81,724	81,982
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities
Unrealized Gains		13
Unrealized Losses	(180)	(132)
Unrealized Gains Losses, Net	(180)	(119)
Corporate securities
Components of our available-for-sale investments
Debt securities	19,606	33,555
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities
Unrealized Gains	7,728	1,327
Unrealized Losses	(4)
Unrealized Gains Losses, Net	7,724	1,327
Other (including restricted)
Components of our available-for-sale investments
Debt securities	507	1,758
Unrealized Gains (Losses) on Marketable Investment Securities
Unrealized Gains	60	64
Unrealized Losses	(11)	(11)
Unrealized Gains Losses, Net	$ 49	$ 53

XML

Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities - Changes in Estimated Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair value of marketable investment securities in a loss position
Total	$ 80,118	$ 53,548
Unrealized loss on marketable investment securities in a loss position
Total	(195)	(143)
Debt securities
Fair value of marketable investment securities in a loss position
Less than 12 Months	55,538	52,011
12 Months or More	24,580	1,537
Unrealized loss on marketable investment securities in a loss position
Less than 12 Months	(158)	(132)
12 Months or More	$ (37)	$ (11)

XML

Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities - Investments Measured at Fair Value On A Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	$ 101,837	$ 117,295
US Treasury and agency securities
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	81,724	81,982
Corporate securities
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	19,606	33,555
Other (including restricted)
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	507	1,758
Fair value measurements on recurring basis
Fair value of marketable securities
Cash Equivalents (including restricted)	2,302,508	5,187,900
Total	101,837	117,295
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | US Treasury and agency securities
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	81,724	81,982
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Corporate securities
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	19,606	33,555
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Other (including restricted)
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	507	1,758
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 1
Fair value of marketable securities
Cash Equivalents (including restricted)	109,313	147,494
Total	81,724	81,982
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 1 | US Treasury and agency securities
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	81,724	81,982
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 2
Fair value of marketable securities
Cash Equivalents (including restricted)	2,193,195	5,040,406
Total	7,350	28,592
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 2 | Corporate securities
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	7,030	27,025
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 2 | Other (including restricted)
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	320	1,567
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 3
Fair value of marketable securities
Total	12,763	6,721
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 3 | Corporate securities
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	12,576	6,530
Fair value measurements on recurring basis | Level 3 | Other (including restricted)
Fair value of marketable securities
Debt securities	$ 187	$ 191

XML

Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities - Changes in Level 3 Instruments (Details)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($)
Fair values transfers between Level 1 and Level 2
Fair value assets transfer from level 1 to level 2	$ 0
Fair value liabilities transfer from level 1 to level 2	0
Fair value assets transfer from level 2 to level 1	0
Fair value liabilities transfer from level 2 to level 1	0
Investment Securities | Level 3
Level 3 Investment Securities
Balance at the beginning of the year	6,721,000
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) included in other comprehensive income (loss)	6,423,000
Sales	(290,000)
Settlements	(91,000)
Balance at the end of the year	$ 12,763,000

XML

Marketable Investment Securities, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, and Other Investment Securities - Other Income Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016
Other Income (Expense)
Marketable investment securities - gains (losses) on sales/exchanges	$ 2,487	$ 29,868	$ 4,759	$ 108,521
Derivative financial instruments - net realized and/or unrealized gains (losses)		17,078		5,405
Marketable investment securities - other-than-temporary impairments		(914)		(914)
Other	680	(656)	3,153	(719)
Total	$ 3,167	$ 45,376	$ 7,912	$ 112,293

XML

Inventory (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Inventory
Finished goods	$ 247,289	$ 282,569
Work-in-process and service repairs	117,593	129,512
Raw materials	8,794	10,268
Total inventory	$ 373,676	$ 422,349

XML

Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 6,245,357	$ 6,396,483
Accumulated depreciation	(3,797,412)	(3,742,212)
Property and equipment, net	$ 2,447,945	2,654,271
Minimum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	1 year
Maximum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	40 years
Equipment leased to customers
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 2,505,046	2,720,695
Equipment leased to customers | Minimum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	2 years
Equipment leased to customers | Maximum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	5 years
EchoStar XV
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 277,658	277,658
Depreciable Life	15 years
EchoStar XVIII
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 411,255	411,255
Depreciable Life	15 years
D1
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 55,000	55,000
T1
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 401,721	401,721
Depreciable Life	15 years
Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 499,819	499,819
Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements | Minimum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	10 years
Satellites acquired under capital lease agreements | Maximum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	15 years
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 1,728,578	1,639,051
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other | Minimum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	1 year
Furniture, fixtures, equipment and other | Maximum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	10 years
Buildings and improvements
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 291,476	288,992
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	1 year
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
Property and equipment
Depreciable Life	40 years
Land
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 14,057	14,057
Construction in progress
Property and equipment
Total property and equipment	$ 60,747	$ 88,235

XML

Property and Equipment and Intangible Assetst - Depreciation and Amortization (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2016
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation and amortization expense	$ 211,671	$ 239,585	$ 416,301	$ 467,151
FCC auction deposit (Note 10)					$ 1,500,000
Equipment leased to customers
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation and amortization expense	145,603	181,431	281,737	348,611
Satellites
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation and amortization expense	29,414	21,957	58,426	43,913
Buildings, furniture, fixtures, equipment and other
Depreciation and amortization expense
Depreciation and amortization expense	$ 36,654	$ 36,197	$ 76,138	$ 74,627

XML

Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)
Property and equipment
Depreciation and amortization expense | $	$ 211,671	$ 239,585	$ 416,301	$ 467,151
Satellites
Property and equipment
Depreciation and amortization expense | $	$ 29,414	$ 21,957	$ 58,426	$ 43,913
EchoStar XV
Property and equipment
Estimated Useful Life			15 years
EchoStar XVI
Property and equipment
Term of renewal option			5 years
EchoStar XVIII
Property and equipment
Estimated Useful Life			15 years
EchoStar XVIII, including capitalized interest
Property and equipment
Number of satellites utilized in geostationary orbit approximately 22,300 miles above the equator			13
Owned Satellites	2		2
Number of satellites utilized under operating lease			9
Number of satellites utilized under capital lease			2
T1
Property and equipment
Estimated Useful Life			15 years

XML

Long-Term Debt - Fair Value of Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 18,146,809	$ 17,147,844
Fair Value	19,967,260	18,451,764
Unamortized debt discount on the Convertible Notes	(968,738)	(752,386)
Unamortized deferred financing costs and debt	(51,830)	(52,704)
Capital Lease obligations	121,787	140,885
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations (including current portion)	17,248,028	16,483,639
4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	900,000	900,000
Fair Value	$ 902,016	$ 913,887
Interest rate (as a percent)	4.625%	4.625%
4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 1,200,000	$ 1,200,000
Fair Value	$ 1,215,768	$ 1,228,464
Interest rate (as a percent)	4.25%	4.25%
7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 1,400,000	$ 1,400,000
Fair Value	$ 1,542,282	$ 1,559,698
Interest rate (as a percent)	7.875%	7.875%
5 1/8% Senior Notes due 2020
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 1,100,000	$ 1,100,000
Fair Value	$ 1,152,580	$ 1,141,866
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.125%	5.125%
6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 2,000,000	$ 2,000,000
Fair Value	$ 2,223,020	$ 2,178,880
Interest rate (as a percent)	6.75%	6.75%
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 2,000,000	$ 2,000,000
Fair Value	$ 2,155,060	$ 2,114,780
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.875%	5.875%
5% Senior Notes due 2023
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 1,500,000	$ 1,500,000
Fair Value	$ 1,543,725	$ 1,500,315
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.00%	5.00%
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2024
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 2,000,000	$ 2,000,000
Fair Value	$ 2,135,280	$ 2,064,000
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.875%	5.875%
2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 1,000,000
Fair Value	$ 1,052,950
Interest rate (as a percent)	2.375%	2.375%
7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2026
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 2,000,000	$ 2,000,000
Fair Value	$ 2,369,240	$ 2,270,900
Interest rate (as a percent)	7.75%	7.75%
3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 3,000,000	$ 3,000,000
Fair Value	$ 3,628,530	$ 3,431,130
Interest rate (as a percent)	3.375%	3.375%
Other notes payable
Debt Instrument
Carrying Value	$ 46,809	$ 47,844
Fair Value	$ 46,809	$ 47,844

XML

Long-Term Debt - Narratives (Details) - USD ($)	6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 17, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Debt Instrument
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 86.08
Stockholders equity	$ 5,237,925,000		$ 4,611,323,000
Class A common stock
Debt Instrument
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01		$ 0.01
4 5/8% Senior Notes due 2017
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	4.625%		4.625%
4 1/4% Senior Notes due 2018
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	4.25%		4.25%
7 7/8% Senior Notes due 2019
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	7.875%		7.875%
5 1/8% Senior Notes due 2020
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.125%		5.125%
6 3/4% Senior Notes due 2021
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	6.75%		6.75%
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2022
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.875%		5.875%
2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	2.375%		2.375%
Aggregate principal amount		$ 1,000,000,000
Term of debt instrument	7 years
Effective Interest rate (as a percent)	7.00%
Convertible, Carrying Amount of Equity Component	$ 252,000,000
Redemption percent of principal amount	100.00%
2 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2024 | Class A common stock
Debt Instrument
Aggregate principal amount	$ 1,000
Convertible notes converted rate, shares	12.1630
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 82.22
5% Senior Notes due 2023
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.00%		5.00%
5 7/8% Senior Notes due 2024
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	5.875%		5.875%
7 3/4% Senior Notes due 2026
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	7.75%		7.75%
3 3/8% Convertible Notes due 2026
Debt Instrument
Interest rate (as a percent)	3.375%		3.375%

XML

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) $ in Thousands									1 Months Ended	6 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	84 Months Ended	114 Months Ended
	May 11, 2017 USD ($)	Sep. 23, 2016	Jul. 01, 2016 USD ($)	Aug. 18, 2015 USD ($)	Apr. 29, 2014 USD ($) segment	Oct. 29, 2013	Mar. 09, 2012 USD ($)	Mar. 09, 2012	Jan. 31, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Dec. 31, 2008 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Apr. 17, 2017 USD ($)	Apr. 13, 2017 USD ($) item	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Spectrum Investments
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets												$ 11,000,000	$ 21,000,000
Wireless
Spectrum Investments
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets													11,000,000
H Block Licenses
Spectrum Investments
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets					$ 1,672,000
Accelerated period to meet Final Build-Out Requirement on failure to meet Interim Build-Out Requirement										2 years
Number of wireless spectrum licenses | segment					176
H Block Licenses | Minimum
Spectrum Investments
Interim Build-out Requirement (as a percent)										40.00%
Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent)										75.00%
700 MHz Licenses
Spectrum Investments
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets											$ 712,000
Modified 700 MHz Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent)						70.00%
600 MHz Licenses
Spectrum Investments
Build-out requirement accelerated period									2 years
Termination Period									39 months
Aggregate bid price														$ 6,211,000
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Aggregate Bid Price														$ 6,211,000
600 MHz Licenses | Maximum
Spectrum Investments
Percent of coverage on available licensed geographic areas										75.00%
600 MHz Licenses | Minimum
Spectrum Investments
Percent of coverage on available licensed geographic areas										40.00%
AWS-3 Licenses [Member]
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Refund amount received										$ 400,000
DBSD North America and TerreStar Transactions | Wireless
Spectrum Investments
Purchase price							$ 2,860,000
AWS-4 Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent)										70.00%
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Ownership percentage								100.00%
Northstar Spectrum And SNR Holdco
Spectrum Investments
Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity										$ 10,000			10,000			$ 10,000,000
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Percentage of bidding credit				25.00%
Total investments										$ 10,191,000			$ 10,191,000
Northstar Spectrum And SNR Holdco | American III
Spectrum Investments
Number of wireless spectrum licenses | item										244			244
Northstar Spectrum And SNR Holdco | AWS-3 Licenses [Member]
Spectrum Investments
Accelerated period to meet Final Build-Out Requirement on failure to meet Interim Build-Out Requirement										2 years
Interim Build-out Requirement (as a percent)										40.00%
Final Build-out Requirement (as a percent)										75.00%
Northstar Spectrum And SNR Holdco | Prior Arrangement [Member] | SNR Licenses
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Number of licenses returned | item										113
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum
Spectrum Investments
Re-Auction payment										$ 1,892,000
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Percentage of bidding credit										15.00%
Bidding credit value				$ 1,961,000
Interim Payment										$ 334,000
Interim payment percentage										15.00%
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | Northstar Manager LLC
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Controlling interest owned by other companies										15.00%
Equity contribution										$ 133,000
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | American II
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Loan made										$ 69,000
Ownership percentage										85.00%
Equity contribution										$ 750,000
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | American II | Northstar Credit Agreement
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Loan made										$ 5,070,000
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | Northstar Licenses
Spectrum Investments
Number of wireless spectrum licenses | item										261			261
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Gross winning bids										$ 5,619,000
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | AWS-3 Licenses [Member]
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Percentage of bidding credit		25.00%								25.00%
Gross winning bids										$ 7,845,000
Net winning bid										$ 5,884,000
Number of licenses returned | item										84
Nonpayment gross winning bids										$ 2,226,000			$ 2,226,000
SNR Wireless or SNR Wireless Holdco
Spectrum Investments
Re-Auction payment										1,029,000
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Bidding credit value				$ 1,370,000
Interim Payment										182,000
SNR Wireless or SNR Wireless Holdco | SNR Credit Agreement [Member]
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Loan made										$ 3,847,000
SNR Wireless or SNR Wireless Holdco | SNR Wireless Management LLC
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Controlling interest owned by other companies										15.00%
Equity contribution										$ 93,000
SNR Wireless or SNR Wireless Holdco | American III
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Gross winning bids										4,271,000
Loan made										$ 344,000
Ownership percentage										85.00%
Equity contribution										$ 524,000
SNR Wireless or SNR Wireless Holdco | AWS 3 Auction
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Gross winning bids										5,482,000
Net winning bid										4,112,000
Bid withdrawal payment										$ 8,000
SNR Wireless or SNR Wireless Holdco | AWS-3 Licenses [Member] | SNR Wireless Management LLC
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Percentage of bidding credit										15.00%
SNR Wireless or SNR Wireless Holdco | SNR Licenses
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Nonpayment gross winning bids										$ 1,211,000			$ 1,211,000
Additional bid withdrawl payment										$ 3,000
FCC Wireless Bureau [Member] | Auction 1000 [Member]
Spectrum Investments
Payment to acquire certain wireless licenses and related assets			$ 1,500,000
Payment of remaining balance of winning bid	$ 4,711,000
ParkerB.com | Auction 1000 [Member]
Spectrum Investments
Number of wireless spectrum licenses | item															486
Aggregate bid price															$ 6,211,000
Commitments relating to AWS-3 Auction
Aggregate Bid Price															$ 6,211,000

XML

Commitments and Contingencies - Narrative Part 2 (Details)					1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended		24 Months Ended
	May 22, 2017 $ / item	Sep. 23, 2016 USD ($)	Aug. 18, 2015 USD ($)	Dec. 23, 2013 USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2009 item	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 05, 2017 USD ($)	Jan. 19, 2017 item $ / item
Loss contingencies
General and administrative expenses						$ 179,812,000		$ 182,145,000	$ 310,847,000	$ 383,146,000
Litigation expense						(295,695,000)			(295,695,000)
Vermont National Telephone Company [Member]
Loss contingency terms
Recovery amount		$ 10,000,000,000
Satellite transponder guarantees
Loss contingencies
Guarantees for payments						158,000,000			158,000,000
Litigation accrual						0			$ 0
Technology Development Licensing
Loss contingency terms
Number of reexamination petitions pending before patent and trademark office | item					2
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum
Loss contingency terms
Percentage Of Bidding Credit									15.00%
Bidding Credit			$ 1,961,000,000
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | AWS-3 Licenses [Member]
Loss contingency terms
Percentage Of Bidding Credit		25.00%							25.00%
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | AWS-3 Licenses [Member] | Vermont National Telephone Company [Member]
Loss contingency terms
Bidding Credit		$ 3,300,000,000
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | AWS-3 Licenses [Member] | Minimum | Vermont National Telephone Company [Member]
Loss contingencies
Claim amount		5,500
Northstar Wireless or Northstar Spectrum | AWS-3 Licenses [Member] | Maximum | Vermont National Telephone Company [Member]
Loss contingencies
Claim amount		$ 11,000
Lightsquared Harbinger Capital Partners LLC
Loss contingency terms
Business days allowed to terminate existing agreements									3 days
LightSquared transaction shareholder derivative actions
Loss contingencies
Number of shareholders who filed lawsuits | item									5
Do Not Call Litigation
Loss contingencies
Period of injunctive relief sought from placing any outbound telemarketing calls to market or promote its goods or services									5 years
Do Not Call Litigation | OHIO
Loss contingencies
Claim amount									$ 10,000,000
Do Not Call Litigation | CALIFORNIA
Loss contingencies
Claim amount from state plaintiff									100,000,000
Do Not Call Litigation | Illinois And North Carolina [Member]
Loss contingencies
Claim Amount Minimum That Would Not Raise Constitutional Concerns									1,000,000,000
Do Not Call Litigation | DISH Network L.L.C.
Loss contingencies
Claim amount				$ 270,000,000
Damages awared to state and federal plaintiff												$ 280,000,000
Claim amount from state plaintiff									23,500,000,000
Litigation expense						255,000,000					$ 25,000,000
Do Not Call Litigation | DISH Network L.L.C. | Other Accrued Expense
Loss contingencies
Litigation accrual						280,000,000			280,000,000
Do Not Call Litigation | Maximum | DISH Network L.L.C.
Loss contingencies
Claim amount from federal plaintiff									900,000,000
Krakauer Action
Loss contingencies
Third party Number Of Calls Made In Case Trebled Damages Per Call | $ / item	1,200
Third Party Number Of Calls Made In Case | item													51,119
Third Party Number Of Calls Made In Case Damages Per Call | $ / item													400
Litigation expense						41,000,000	$ 20,000,000
Krakauer Action | Other Accrued Expense
Loss contingencies
Litigation accrual						$ 61,000,000			$ 61,000,000

XML

Segment Reporting (Details) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	May 11, 2017 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) segment	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)
Segment information
Number of primary operating business units | segment				2
Total assets		$ 29,917,559		$ 29,917,559		$ 27,914,292
Total revenue		3,643,632	$ 3,864,591	7,323,993	$ 7,692,065
Operating income (loss)		252,103	640,282	859,423	1,223,700
Litigation expense (Note 10)		295,695		295,695
United States
Segment information
Total revenue		3,632,203	3,841,120	7,302,967	7,632,406
Canada And Mexico
Segment information
Total revenue		11,429	23,471	21,026	59,659
Pay TV And Broadband [Member] | Operating segment
Segment information
Total assets		28,641,709		28,641,709		26,980,276
Total revenue		3,643,632	3,864,591	7,323,993	7,692,065
Operating income (loss)		262,919	655,419	884,584	1,256,696
Wireless | Operating segment
Segment information
Total assets		22,996,599		22,996,599		17,814,382
Operating income (loss)		(10,816)	$ (15,137)	(25,161)	$ (32,996)
All Other and Eliminations | Other and Eliminations
Segment information
Total assets		$ (21,720,749)		$ (21,720,749)		$ (16,880,366)
Auction 1000 [Member] | FCC Wireless Bureau [Member]
Segment information
Payment of remaining balance of winning bid	$ 4,711,000

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Related Party Transactions (Details) $ in Thousands			1 Months Ended								3 Months Ended			6 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Aug. 19, 2016	Apr. 29, 2011 USD ($) item	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2016	Jun. 30, 2013	Dec. 21, 2012	May 31, 2012	Jan. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011 USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2013 item	Jun. 30, 2017 USD ($) item	Jun. 30, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2009 item	Dec. 31, 2008 item
Related Party Transactions
Trade accounts receivable				$ 777,908							$ 737,029			$ 737,029		$ 777,908
Trade accounts payable				524,704							328,098			328,098		524,704
Equipment sales and other revenue											29,353	$ 38,375		65,628	$ 90,371
Subscriber-related expenses											2,242,775	2,249,260		4,485,962	4,479,509
Satellite and transmission expenses											163,980	175,625		340,162	344,206
General and Administrative Expense											179,812	182,145		310,847	383,146
Noncontrolling interests				(2,226)							51			$ 51		(2,226)
Maximum
Related Party Transactions
Capital contribution recorded in additional paid-in-capital for tax credits related to tax-sharing agreement																1,000
Professional Services Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Automatic Renewal Period														1 year
Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Automatic renewal period														1 year
Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement | Minimum
Related Party Transactions
Notice period for termination of agreement														180 days
EchoStar
Related Party Transactions
Trade accounts receivable				2,000							1,000			$ 1,000		2,000
Trade accounts payable				$ 276,000							90,000			90,000		$ 276,000
Equipment sales and other revenue											1,000	1,000		1,000	2,000
Subscriber-related expenses											22,000	23,000		41,000	47,000
Satellite and transmission expenses											89,000	88,000		178,000	178,000
General and Administrative Expense											$ 12,000	4,000		$ 15,000	8,000
EchoStar | El Paso Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Number of consecutive three year renewal options | item														4
Term of renewal option														3 years
EchoStar | 90 Inverness Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Number of consecutive three year renewal options | item														4
Term of renewal option														3 years
EchoStar | Cheyenne Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Number of one year renewal options | item											13			13
Term of renewal option														1 year
EchoStar | Gilbert Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Number of one year renewal options | item											13			13
Term of renewal option														1 year
EchoStar | Collocation And Antenna Space Agreements
Related Party Transactions
Minimum required notice period for termination of agreement by related party														180 days
EchoStar | EchoStar XVI
Related Party Transactions
Term of renewal option					5 years
Agreement term							4 years
Extension of initial term					1 year
Additional term of renewal option					5 years
EchoStar | Nimiq 5 Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Agreement term																	15 years
Number of DBS transponders available to receive services | item																	32
EchoStar | DISH Nimiq 5 Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Agreement term																	10 years
Number of DBS transponders currently used | item																	32
EchoStar | QuetzSat-1 Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Agreement term																		10 years
Number of DBS transponders available to receive services | item																		32
EchoStar | QuetzSat-1 Transponder Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Number of DBS transponders currently used | item																		24
Number of transponders subleased | item													5
EchoStar | 103 degree orbital location member
Related Party Transactions
Agreement term								10 years
Agreement term from commencement of service date						10 years
EchoStar | 2012 TT&C Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Agreement term														1 year
Minimum required notice period for termination by the reporting entity									60 days
EchoStar | Meridian Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Additional term of renewal option				1 year
EchoStar | Santa Fe Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Additional term of renewal option				1 year
EchoStar | 100 Inverness Lease Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Notice period for termination of agreement			180 days
EchoStar | Professional Services Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Agreement term																	1 year
Minimum notice period for termination of a specific service																	30 days
EchoStar | Professional Services Agreement | Minimum
Related Party Transactions
Notice period for termination of agreement																	60 days
EchoStar | Patent Cross-License Agreements | Maximum
Related Party Transactions
Payments to third party										$ 10,000
Payments to third party by related party under extension option										$ 3,000
EchoStar | Rovi License Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Agreement term	10 years
EchoStar | American Fork Occupancy License Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Term of renewal option														5 years
HNS
Related Party Transactions
Broadband equipment purchased from related parties											$ 3,000			$ 10,000
HNS | Hughes Broadband Sales Agency Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Notice period for termination of agreement			90 days
Agreement term			5 years
Automatic Renewal Period			1 year
HNS | Hughes Broadband Distribution Agreement
Related Party Transactions
Broadband equipment purchased from related parties											$ 0	$ 2,000		$ 0	$ 5,000
DISH Network | TiVo vs Dish Network and EchoStar Corporation
Related Party Transactions
Settlement amount		$ 500,000
Initial settlement amount paid		300,000
Aggregate of six annual installment amounts between 2012 and 2017, net of contribution from related party		$ 200,000
Litigation settlement number of annual installments | item		6
Contribution from related party		$ 10,000
Percentage of litigation settlement amount to be made by related party		95.00%

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Related Party Transactions - Part 2 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2016	Feb. 28, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
NagraStar
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Ownership interest (as a percent)					50.00%
Purchases from related party	$ 18,652	$ 19,997	$ 36,431	$ 45,494
Amounts payable to related party	11,374		11,374			$ 18,597
Commitments to related party	$ 4,917		$ 4,917			$ 2,716
Dish Mexico
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Ownership interest (as a percent)	49.00%		49.00%
Amounts receivable from related party	$ 1,307	13,516	$ 1,307	13,516
Dish Mexico | Digital Set-top Boxes And Related Accessories
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from related party	312	10,176	1,183	32,730
Dish Mexico | Uplink Services
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Revenue from related party	$ 975	$ 1,016	$ 1,998	$ 2,025