AST Spacemobile Expands Midland Spaceport Footprint

The Midland Development Corporation (MDC) is proud to highlight the remarkable continued growth of AST SpaceMobile, Inc. at the Midland International Air and Spaceport. As the pioneer behind the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard, unmodified mobile phones, AST SpaceMobile’s presence in Midland represents a cornerstone of West Texas’s rapidly accelerating innovation economy.

Driving High-Tech Innovation in the Permian Basin

While Midland has long been celebrated as the energy capital of the Permian Basin, the expansion of AST SpaceMobile’s facilities demonstrates the region’s expanding role as a premier hub for aerospace manufacturing and satellite technology.
Operating out of the Spaceport Business Park, AST SpaceMobile has established state-of-the-art research, development, and assembly facilities. The company’s site at the Midland International Air and Spaceport provides an ideal environment for advanced manufacturing, testing, and logistics.
The 400,000 square-foot expansion of their satellite manufacturing facility in Midland supports the mass production of AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites. These next-generation satellites feature large phased-array antennas designed to deliver commercial cellular broadband connectivity from space directly to everyday smartphones, bridging digital divides and providing critical connectivity to remote and underserved areas across the globe.
The agreement includes:

• Up to $66 million in incentives over 30 years (paid only after performance milestones achieved).
• No property tax abatements or property tax incentives.
• Annual performance payments capped at $3.3 million.
• $16 million in ground lease reimbursement returned to the City of Midland.

Building a World-Class Aerospace Ecosystem

Midland’s unique combination of available land, streamlined permitting, supportive local leadership, and access to a robust industrial supply chain makes it uniquely positioned to support space-technology leaders.
AST SpaceMobile’s growing footprint acts as a powerful catalyst, encouraging complementary aerospace, defense, and technology firms to consider Midland for their next phase of growth. The presence of high-tech manufacturing alongside traditional energy industries fosters a culture of technical excellence and cross-sector innovation.
In addition to industrial development, AST SpaceMobile actively engages with local educational institutions, helping to cultivate the region’s future workforce by inspiring students to pursue aerospace and technology careers.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The partnership between the MDC and AST SpaceMobile continues to deliver substantial economic dividends for the Midland community. Through strategic agreements, infrastructure support, and performance-based incentives, MDC has worked to ensure that cutting-edge aerospace companies have the resources necessary to scale their operations locally.
AST SpaceMobile’s expansion brings significant capital investment to the city and accelerates the creation of primary, high-paying jobs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). These positions diversify Midland’s industrial base, attract top-tier talent from around the country, and offer rewarding career pathways for local graduates. The expansion expects to add 1,800 jobs at full buildout and support 4,000 regional jobs through indirect and induced economic activity.

Looking Ahead

The MDC remains dedicated to fostering an environment where innovative companies can thrive. As AST SpaceMobile expands its spaceport operations, MDC will continue to invest in the infrastructure, talent, and partnerships that make Midland a premier destination for business and space technology.
For more information about business opportunities, incentives, and aerospace development in Midland, Texas, visit the MDC website.