AST SpaceMobile set a target date for the first launches of its latest-generation satellites, birds it is relying on to provide a significant advance in its direct-to-device connectivity ambitions.

An initial date of 15 December was set to launch the first BlueBird 6 low Earth orbit satellite. AST SpaceMobile stated the next-generation equipment is three-and-a-half times larger than its current birds and deliver ten-times more data capacity.

Abel Avellan, founder, chair and CEO, said the BlueBird 6 satellites “will soon enable ubiquitous” mobile broadband coverage “direct to everyday smartphones”.

The company noted all launch plans are subject to change based on environmental conditions and the readiness of its launch facility, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in India.

It is working to lay the foundations for a significant increase in the number of satellites in orbit over the next 12 months. The goals involve launching the first five BlueBird 6 birds by the close of Q1 2026 and ultimately letting between 45 and 60 fly by the end of the year.

AST SpaceMobile’s launch targets are backed by a hike in production: it aims to manufacture the equivalent number of micron panels to run 40 satellites by early 2026.

Separate information explains its micron panels contain solar cells on one side and antennas on the other.