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AST SpaceMobile Building Reusable Rocket

November 8, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

AST SpaceMobile is building its own reusable rocket, Blacklift.
Firefly Aerospace will supply engines for the rocket.
The deal is valued at over $1.3 billion.
AST aims to launch its BlueBird satellites starting in late 2028.

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Strategic Implications

This move may indicate AST SpaceMobile's desire to reduce its dependence on SpaceX, which could suggest a shift in the competitive landscape of the space industry. The investment in a reusable rocket program may also indicate a long-term strategy for cost reduction and increased launch capabilities, which could benefit AST SpaceMobile in the future.

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What Happened

Reducing Reliance On SpaceX With New Launch Vehicle

AST SpaceMobile has announced plans to build its own reusable rocket, Blacklift, to launch its BlueBird satellites starting in late 2028. The company has partnered with Firefly Aerospace to supply engines for the rocket, in a deal valued at over $1.3 billion. This move is seen as an effort to reduce AST SpaceMobile’s reliance on SpaceX, and could have significant implications for the space industry. The announcement was first reported by 24/7 Wall St.

Source | Originally Published: November 7, 2026

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