AST SpaceMobile Tests Satellite Broadband Across Eight European Nations

AST SpaceMobile, Inc. has initiated network integration testing across eight European countries to deploy space-based cellular broadband connectivity directly to unmodified smartphones. The company is collaborating with several mobile network operators, including Vodafone, Orange, Telefónica, and Deutsche Telekom, to conduct these activities in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Romania, France, the Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, and Ukraine.

The rollout utilizes the BlueBird satellite constellation, which employs large phased arrays in low Earth orbit to deliver high-speed data, voice, and video services without requiring specialized hardware. To support the deployment, the company is leveraging the gateway infrastructure of Satellite Connect Europe, a joint venture between AST SpaceMobile and Vodafone headquartered in Luxembourg.

Chief Commercial Officer Chris Ivory stated that the company is working with leading operators to create a seamless complementary layer of connectivity alongside existing terrestrial networks. The initiative aims to eliminate coverage gaps and provide resilient connectivity for consumers, businesses, first responders, and governments.