Japan Approves 700MHz Smartphone-Satellite Links, AST SpaceMobile Plans August BlueBird Launch
ASTS•Japan’s regulators recommended using Rakuten’s 700 MHz band for low-Earth-orbit smartphone links, greenlighting AST SpaceMobile’s August launch of BlueBird 11–13 satellites. Rakuten will form a 50:50 joint venture with AST SpaceMobile to launch services in 2026 and nationwide coverage by fiscal 2027, lifting shares 2% after a 7% intraday decline.
1. Regulatory Approval
Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications recommended allowing direct smartphone connectivity via the 700 MHz band, clearing a key regulatory hurdle for satellite-to-phone service. The outcome paves the way for revised ordinances in September to manage interference and coordinate spectrum use with existing operators.
2. Joint Venture and Timeline
Rakuten and AST SpaceMobile will establish a 50:50 joint venture this year, with management led by Rakuten. AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird 11, 12 and 13 satellites are targeted for an August launch, enabling limited service rollouts in 2026 and nationwide coverage by fiscal 2027.
3. Market Impact and Stock Reaction
Shares of AST SpaceMobile jumped 2% following the regulatory nod, despite a 7% intraday drop earlier in the session. The development positions the AST-backed service to compete directly with Starlink-based offerings launched by KDDI, NTT Docomo and SoftBank.
