Viasat Urges FCC to Block AST SpaceMobile’s Spectrum Bid Over Interference Risks

Viasat has asked the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to deny AST SpaceMobile’s request for additional spectrum. AST is seeking more mobile and V-band spectrum for its planned 248-satellite constellation, which is designed to provide space-based cellular broadband.

In its filing, Viasat called AST’s application “fatally flawed.” It argues the proposal could interfere with existing mobile-satellite services and that some requested frequencies are restricted.

The challenge adds a regulatory hurdle that could delay or block AST SpaceMobile’s plans for overseas operations. The news contributed to a decline in ASTS stock.