Jon🅰️than Cooper

$ASTS I think some people may be jumping to the wrong conclusion about today’s Blacklift announcement. Yes, AST has acknowledged the importance of having greater control over launch capacity. But that doesn’t mean they’re giving up on commercial launch providers or that they’ve exhausted their options. In fact, the announcement explicitly confirms that AST will CONTINUE using external launch providers, with existing agreements covering more than 100 BlueBird satellites scheduled for deployment during 2027–2028. Blacklift is a longer-term addition to that strategy, with operations targeted to begin in late 2028. I see another potentially much bigger strategic consideration here ✨The government and sovereign infrastructure opportunity. We’re entering an era where governments are recognizing the importance of having secure, independent communications infrastructure. National security, defense, emergency communications, and sovereign control over critical networks are becoming increasingly important. Even dire. And just think what’s happening with Starshield in Ukraine. Recent service restrictions affecting Ukrainian military operations have shown potential vulnerabilities of relying on commercially controlled satellite infrastructure, especially during geopolitical conflicts. That doesn’t mean governments are abandoning SpaceX (yet) but it definitely reinforces the value of having alternatives and greater control. Let’s all try to remember that AST specifically identified government radar, secure government communications, IoT, federal emergency services, AI edge computing, and additional funded networks as opportunities that Blacklift could help address. ✨ This is potentially about much more than getting BlueBirds into orbit. ✨ And don’t forget, Amazon didn’t abandon outside launch providers when developing its own constellation. It intentionally diversified its launch arrangements to reduce scheduling risk and to maintain flexibility. Multiple deployment pathways are a strategic advantage. Not a contradiction or cause to panic. Critical thinning, a cool head, and removal of emotion over SP are key here. I also think we should recognize what vertical integration could mean for AST’s long-term economics. A reusable rocket capable of deploying up to five BlueBirds per launch, with control over its own manufacturing and launch schedule, could fundamentally change the economics and scalability of the business. Of course, Blacklift is a substantial investment, and there are real execution, financing considerations. We shouldn’t dismiss those. But I don’t think this announcement should automatically be interpreted as a sign of desperation or a lack of launch options. I see a company potentially positioning itself to control more of its infrastructure, expand its addressable market, serve additional government customers, and reduce its dependence on an increasingly constrained launch industry. And also important ✨ AST isn’t waiting until 2028 to deploy satellites. The existing external launch strategy continues. ✨ Let’s hear management explain the bigger picture on Monday’s earnings call before we assume the worst. Think bigger than the rocket. Think about the infrastructure AST is positioning itself to own.