AST SpaceMobile Gains TELUS Equity Stake for Canadian Satellite Cellular Service
AST SpaceMobile has formed a collaboration with TELUS Corporation to provide satellite-based cellular service across Canada using AST SpaceMobile’s space-based connectivity infrastructure, enabling voice calls, texts and mobile data in coverage gaps. TELUS will invest in ground-based satellite infrastructure and acquire an equity stake to cement a long-term partnership.
1. Collaboration with TELUS
AST SpaceMobile has entered into a collaboration with TELUS Corporation to integrate its space-based connectivity infrastructure with TELUS’s network, enabling direct-to-cellular service across Canada. The partnership covers satellite-enabled voice calls, text messaging and mobile data in regions lacking reliable terrestrial coverage.
2. Ground Infrastructure and Investment
Under the agreement, TELUS will develop ground-based satellite infrastructure to complement existing 4G LTE and 5G networks and will make an equity investment in AST SpaceMobile. The ground stations are intended to seamlessly bridge satellite signals to terrestrial mobile networks, enhancing service reliability in remote and urban dead zones.
3. Strategic Impact and Growth Prospects
The deal represents a long-term strategic alliance, positioning AST SpaceMobile to tap Canada’s sizable market and bolster revenue streams. Following partnerships with Verizon and AT&T, AST SpaceMobile further diversifies its operator base, reinforcing its valuation despite a high forward price-to-sales ratio.
4. Recent Performance and Valuation
AST SpaceMobile shares have surged over 210% year-over-year, reflecting investor optimism around its direct-to-cellular technology. The company trades at a forward price-to-sales ratio exceeding 130, indicating premium valuation based on growth expectations.