AST SpaceMobile readies major satellite expansion, buys S

AST SpaceMobile aims to deploy 45–60 satellites by 2026, enabling continuous broadband service in key global markets

In sum – what to know:

Fully funded expansion plan – AST SpaceMobile aims to deploy 45–60 satellites by 2026, enabling continuous broadband service in key global markets, with launches scheduled every one to two months in 2025–26.

S-Band spectrum acquisition – The company is purchasing 60 MHz of global S-Band spectrum rights for $64.5 million, though some analysts question the spectrum’s strategic value, calling the move “largely worthless.”

Industry partnerships and delays – AST SpaceMobile has agreements with nearly 50 mobile operators covering 2B customers, but has faced repeated launch delays for its first Bluebird satellites and FM1 prototype.

AST SpaceMobile th