AST SpaceMobile, which is just a few weeks away from launching its seventh satellite (BlueBird FM2) into orbit on a Blue Origin New Glenn rocket, has issued a statement saying that it is currently producing approximately six satellites per month from its Midland, Texas facilities.

However, AST’s ambitions are considerable. It has previousely stated that it wants between 45 and 60 in orbit by the end of this year in order to start beta-services in some markets.

AST, used an Indian rocket to launch its FM1 craft on December 23rd 2025 and – while not yet confirmed – is widely reported to have successfully unfurled its giant antenna.

The operator, in a statement to the FCC, reminded that it is anticipating four launches during this quarter, and additional launches during the year to hit the 45-60 target.

Additionally, AST has won a “prime contract position” on the important US Missile Defense Agencies ‘Shield’ programme, often called the Golden Dome.

“The selection positions AST SpaceMobile to compete for a wide range of future task orders […] of critical Missile Defence Agency systems that support US national security objectives,” said AST.

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Categories: Articles, Broadband, Satellite

Tags: AST SpaceMobile, BlueBird, FCC