AST SpaceMobile Awarded U.S. Space Force Contract to Advance Space-Based Sensing Capabilities
AST SpaceMobile, Inc. has been awarded a contract through STR, a prime contractor, by the U.S. Space Force (USSF) to advance space-based sensing capabilities. Announced on November 5, 2026, this effort focuses on an additional phase of technology development, leveraging AST SpaceMobile's commercially developed space-based technologies. The contract is part of a government program designed to evaluate and utilize commercial innovation for national security applications, extending beyond traditional communication functions. Chris Ivory, Chief Executive Officer of AST SpaceMobile Defense, highlighted that the company's BlueBird spacecraft platform, with its proprietary design, large phased array, and multi-frequency architecture, can support numerous use cases across airborne, maritime, and ground domains. AST SpaceMobile has a history of working with STR on related efforts, building on prior on-orbit experience and demonstrating the potential of dual-use technology. The BlueBird spacecraft are assembled, int...
