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AST SpaceMobile Develops Blacklift Rocket

November 9, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

AST SpaceMobile to build 20-ton Blacklift rocket.
Rocket designed for reusability, using Firefly engines.
Capable of carrying up to five BlueBird satellites per launch.

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Strategic Implications

This development may indicate AST SpaceMobile's push for vertical integration, which could strengthen its position in the space-based cellular broadband market. The partnership with Firefly Aerospace suggests a focus on leveraging proven engine technology, which may accelerate the deployment of BlueBird satellites.

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What Happened

New 20-Ton Rocket To Deploy BlueBird Satellites

AST SpaceMobile has announced plans to develop its own 20-ton rocket, named Blacklift, to deploy its BlueBird satellites into low Earth orbit. The custom-built rocket will be designed for reusability and will be capable of carrying up to five BlueBird satellites per launch. AST SpaceMobile expects Blacklift to begin operations in late 2028, marking a major step towards the company’s strategy of achieving end-to-end vertical integration. This development was first reported by SatellitePro ME.

Source | Originally Published: November 9, 2026

Companies Mentioned

AST SpaceMobile Firefly Aerospace

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Technology & Systems

AST SpaceMobile Develops Blacklift Rocket

November 9, 2026

1 min read

Key Takeaways

AST SpaceMobile to build 20-ton Blacklift rocket.
Rocket designed for reusability, using Firefly engines.
Capable of carrying up to five BlueBird satellites per launch.

Sign in to view key takeaways Get full access to in-depth analysis and key takeaways.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.

Strategic Implications

This development may indicate AST SpaceMobile's push for vertical integration, which could strengthen its position in the space-based cellular broadband market. The partnership with Firefly Aerospace suggests a focus on leveraging proven engine technology, which may accelerate the deployment of BlueBird satellites.

Sign in to view strategic implications Get full access to strategic analysis and expert insights.

Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.

What Happened

New 20-Ton Rocket To Deploy BlueBird Satellites

AST SpaceMobile has announced plans to develop its own 20-ton rocket, named Blacklift, to deploy its BlueBird satellites into low Earth orbit. The custom-built rocket will be designed for reusability and will be capable of carrying up to five BlueBird satellites per launch. AST SpaceMobile expects Blacklift to begin operations in late 2028, marking a major step towards the company’s strategy of achieving end-to-end vertical integration. This development was first reported by SatellitePro ME.

Source | Originally Published: November 9, 2026

Companies Mentioned

AST SpaceMobile Firefly Aerospace