UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

☒ ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2023

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ____________ to _____________

Commission File No. 000-55925

AERKOMM INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

44043 Fremont Blvd., Fremont, CA 94538 

(Address of principal executive offices)

(877) 742-3094

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, $0.001 par value per share

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.   Yes ☐  No ☒

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.   Yes ☐  No ☒

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.   Yes ☒  No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes ☒  No ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☐

If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐

Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐

Indicate by check mark whether registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes ☐  No ☒

As of June 30, 2023 (the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter), the aggregate market value of the shares of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates (based upon the closing price of such shares as reported on the OTC Pink Market tier) was approximately $23,524,331.  Shares of the registrant’s common stock held by each executive officer and director and by each person who owns 10% or more of the outstanding common stock have been excluded from the calculation in that such persons may be deemed to be affiliates of the registrant. This determination of affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.

There were a total of 17,962,613 shares of the registrant’s common stock outstanding as of May 6, 2024.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

None.

Aerkomm Inc.

Annual Report on Form 10-K

Year Ended December 31, 2023

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Special Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

In addition to historical information, this report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act. We use words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “project,” “target,” “plan,” “optimistic,” “intend,” “aim,” “will” or similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the following:

These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including those described in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this annual report. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment, and new risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for us to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this annual report may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in our forward-looking statements. 

You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in our forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee that the future results, levels of activity, performance or events and circumstances described in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur. Moreover, neither we nor any other person assumes responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason after the date of this report to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations, except as required by law. 

You should read this annual report and the documents that we reference in this report and have filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, with the understanding that our actual future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances may be materially different from what we expect. 

This report includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third-party sources, including industry publications, as well as industry data prepared by our management on the basis of its knowledge of and experience in the industries in which we operate (including our management’s estimates and assumptions relating to such industries based on that knowledge). Management’s knowledge of such industries has been developed through its experience and participation in these industries. While our management believes the third-party sources referred to in this annual report are reliable, neither we nor our management have independently verified any of the data from such sources referred to in this report or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources. Internally prepared and third-party market forecasts, in particular, are estimates only and may be inaccurate, especially over long periods of time. Furthermore, references in this report to any publications, reports, surveys or articles prepared by third parties should not be construed as depicting the complete findings of the entire publication, report, survey or article. The information in any such publication, report, survey or article is not incorporated by reference in this report.

Summary of Risk Factors

Our annual report should be considered in light of the risks, uncertainties, expenses and difficulties frequently encountered by similar companies. Our ability to realize our business objectives and execute our strategies is subject to risks and uncertainties, including, among others, the following:

Risks Relating to Our Business

Risks and uncertainties related to our current and future business include, but are not limited to, the following:

Risks Relating to Our Industries

Risks and uncertainties related to our industries include, but are not limited to, the following:

Risks Relating to Our Technology and Intellectual Property

Risks and uncertainties related to our technology and intellectual property include, but are not limited to, the following:  

Risks Relating to Ownership of our Common Stock

Risks and uncertainties related to our common stocks include, but are not limited to, the following:

In addition, we face other risks and uncertainties that may materially affect our business prospects, financial condition, and results of operations. You should consider the risks discussed in Item 1A. “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this annual report before investing in our common stocks.

Use of Terms

Except as otherwise indicated by the context and for the purposes of this report only, references in this report to:

PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS.

Overview

We are a development stage innovative satellite communication technology company providing carrier-neutral and software-defined infrastructure to deliver mission-critical, multi-orbit satellite broadband connectivity for the public and private sectors.

We offer a range of next-generation technologies that bring high-throughput performance, interoperability and virtualization to provide high performance and resilient end-to-end broadband connectivity to our customers in collaboration with satellite or constellation partners and mobile network operators.

Our business model is asset-light and far less capital intensive than most companies operating in the space industry as we do not operate, or intend to operate, our own satellites or constellations.

Our key proprietary cutting-edge technology is a universal terminal that we develop. It provides carrier-neutral satellite broadband access. These terminals are designed to meet the diverse needs of users across various sectors, and connecting those users to the right satellite, independent of which orbit it is located in, ensuring seamless connectivity and unparalleled performance.

Our universal terminals consist of both a multi-orbit flat panel antenna (FPA), or electronically steered array (ESA), as well as a carrier-neutral, software-defined modem.

Our groundbreaking glass semiconductor ESA antenna technology enhances performance by more than 50% in terms of throughput per square inch, compared to other antenna designs and constructions. The advantages of our ESA technology mean that our universal terminals can be smaller and lighter while also consuming less power and generating less waste heat than other satellite broadband terminals, while also delivering high throughput.

Our work on custom beamformer chips, or application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and on custom radiofrequency (RF) chipsets aims to optimize power and performance, enabling seamless connectivity across multiple orbits.

Our modem is designed with a software-defined radio (SDR) to provide secure and agile signal transmission with military-grade security features. Our work on a custom high-speed analog-to-digital (ADC) chipset aims to unlock hybrid-orbit links and to enable advanced signal intelligence capabilities.

In addition to designing and developing proprietary technologies for end-to-end solutions based around our universal terminal, we also strategically source and integrate partner technologies to create robust and reliable satellite networks that can be tailored to meet the demands of public and private sector clients.

To enable resiliency and scalability, we are also at the forefront of implementing virtualization for satellite communications through our software-defined approach, which enhances flexibility, scalability, and efficiency and allows for dynamically adapting to evolving communication needs.

By orchestrating a comprehensive system of technologies, we endeavor to revolutionize satellite communication alongside our industry partners, delivering unparalleled capabilities to empower industries and individuals worldwide.

Our technologies, combined with our current and prospective regional satellite operators licenses, enable us to be a distribution partner for our current and potential satellite operator partners’ bandwidth. We aim to identify, unlock and expand new use-cases for satellite communications, providing value both to our customers, and to enable new revenue streams for both ourselves and for our satellite operator partners whose bandwidth we resell.

Merger Agreement with IXAQ

On March 29, 2024, we entered into a business combination agreement (the “Merger Agreement”) with IX Acquisition Corp., a Cayman Islands corporation (“IXAQ”) and AKOM Merger Sub Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of IXAQ (“Merger Sub”). Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, we and IXAQ have agreed to effect a business combination (the “Merger”), subject to satisfaction of conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement described briefly below. Additional information relating to the Merger along with the Merger Agreement can be found in our Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the SEC on April 4, 2024. The Merger Agreements contemplates that:

Pursuant to the terms of the Merger Agreement, each share of common stock of the Company issued and outstanding immediately before the closing of the Merger (other than any such shares that were held by dissenters to the Merger exercising appraisal rights, the “Merger Shares”) will be converted into shares of Class A Common Stock of IXAQ based on a Closing Purchase Price (as defined in the Merger Agreement) for the Company of $200,000,000 (as may be adjusted under the Merger Agreement prior to the closing of the Merger) and a price of $11.50 per share of Class A Common Stock of IXAQ (thereby resulting in the holders of Merger Shares receiving 17,391,304 shares of Class A Common Stock of IXAQ assuming no adjustment from the $200,000,000 Closing Purchase Price). Further, if certain milestones are achieved in the five years following the Merger, those who held Merger Shares immediately before consummation of the Merger will be entitled to receive their pro rata share of up to an aggregate of an additional 17,391,304 shares of Class D Common Stock of IXAQ (as may be adjusted under the Merger Agreement prior to the closing of the Merger), representing an additional Incentive Purchase Price (as defined in the Merger Agreement) of $200,000,000 that is additional to the $200,000,000 Closing Purchase Price for the Company under the Merger Agreement.

In addition to closing conditions that are usual and customary for a transaction like the Merger, the Merger Agreement closing conditions include that at least $45,000,000 of investor PIPE (private investment in public entity) financing commitments (inclusive of SAFE (simple agreement for future equity) financing obtained by the Company before the closing of the Merger) are obtained for the combined company resulting from the Merger, unless waived by IXAQ. As of date of this filing, PIPE agreements for aggregate commitments of $35,000,000, at a price of $11.50 per share, have been signed with Investors.

As of the date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the Insiders of the Company (as defined in the Merger Agreement) have all signed Company Support Agreements in favor of the transaction.

Our Strategic Position

The Company is an innovative satellite technology company providing multi-orbit broadband connectivity solutions, based around our universal terminal. Our carrier-neutral and software-defined infrastructure enables end-to-end satellite broadband connectivity across multiple orbits, such as low-earth orbit (LEO), medium-earth orbit (MEO), geostationary-earth orbit (GEO), and highly elliptical orbit (HEO). We serve both public and private sectors, including Aerospace & Defense and Civilian Telecommunications.

We have a range of next-generation satellite technologies that offer broadband connectivity by collaborating with satellite partners and mobile network operators to link users and platforms on the edge to core infrastructure hubs. The Company has established a strong engagement with leading satellite constellation operators spanning multiple orbits, including LEO, MEO, GEO and HEO. Additionally, our technology is currently being implemented in the Aerospace & Defense market, having been tested in full-scale operational scenarios.

We are developing partnerships with both public and private sector clients that have increasing demands for multi-beam and multi-orbit satellite communications solutions. Our solutions deliver high-throughput multi-orbit connectivity in a very compact package. We can leverage these advantages in minimizing size, weight and power without compromising performance to open up new use cases and applications for satellite communications.

We have considerable multi-national technical expertise with executives and innovators drawn from semi-conductors, aerospace, defense, dual-use technology, telecommunications and satellite communications sectors. In the defense sector, we have been pioneering a first-of-its-kind satellite communications architecture for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) engaged in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions with our development partner and customer.

By late 2023, our technology was tested and achieved positive results in operational environments. We anticipate starting to deliver on our first major contract in 2024. We will continue to invest in our talent, our technology and our partnerships and expect to be in a position to introduce higher volume and higher margin solutions by 2026.

Overview of our capabilities, competitive edge, markets and opportunities 

Our key standout capabilities deliver differentiated solutions:

Our glass semiconductor antenna transmits and receives 50% Mbps more throughput per square-inch compared to previous state-of-the-art satellite broadband terminals.

Our universal terminals, including our multi-orbit glass semiconductor antennas and software-defined radio (SDR) modems, aim to provide carrier-neutral broadband connectivity. These terminals are designed to meet the diverse needs of users across various sectors, delivering high-quality connectivity and performance regardless of which satellite or which orbit they are using.

Our software-defined core network waveforms integrate satellites and constellations across all major orbits, as well as 5G advanced and emerging 6G non-terrestrial networks (NTN). This approach enhances flexibility, scalability, and efficiency, allowing for dynamic adaptation to evolving communication needs.

Our competitive edges are:

Markets – We believe that we are at the point of monetization, poised to deliver differentiated solutions in the fast-growing market for satellite communications.

According to a 2023 annual report by Boeing on the commercial aviation industry, reports by the Teal Group on the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industry, and reports by NSR on the role of satellite communications for the telecommunications industry, we believe that our target segments of Aerospace & Defense and Civilian Telecommunications are projected to grow threefold, from approximately $20 billion to $60 billion by 2030. Geopolitical conflicts are driving the adoption of dual-use applications for satellite communications.

We believe there are a numerous opportunities to rapidly develop the Company.

We have successfully delivered solutions to our development partner and customer and are experiencing interest from additional potential customers. The Company’s technology has demonstrated positive results in both operational and lab environments.

We expect to execute our first major contract in 2024 and plan to invest in talent and strategic partnerships to fuel growth. Additionally, we aim to be in a position to introduce higher volume and higher margin solutions by 2026.

We bring together a constellation of expert talent, including semiconductor and satellite communication innovators, as well as veterans in aerospace and telecommunications commercializing dual-use technologies.

As of April 27, 2023, the Company has been awarded a regional satellite service spectrum usage permit. With this permit and our proprietary technology, we believe that we will be able to develop and expand our revenue stream from satellite services. This positions us as not only a hardware and system supplier, but also a distributor of multi-orbit satellite bandwidth \and satellite connectivity services provider, which expands the markets in which we can participate.

As a satellite service provider in Taiwan, we will be authorized to provide satellite services in the Civilian Telecommunications market, such as for mobile backhaul, and Aerospace & Defense markets, for both aviation and maritime applications. We expect these capabilities also to enable us to secure network resiliency contracts.

Outlook

The Company intends to capitalize on our numerous initiatives in the Aerospace & Defense and Civilian Telecommunications markets to establish a leading position as innovators at the forefront of the booming satellite communications industry. We are primed to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving satellite communication landscape, driving innovation and delivering value to customers and stakeholders.

Our Technology and Product Overview

We aim to provide asset-light end-to-end broadband connectivity with satellite partners and mobile network operators, by leveraging advanced technology and partnerships to offer innovative connectivity solutions. We will remain less capital intensive than many comparable companies in the space industry as we do not operate, nor intend in the future to operate, our own satellites or constellations.

We aim to work with a variety of satellite operators across different orbits, including LEO, MEO, GEO, and HEO. We also aim to engage with MNOs on both their 5G and 6G terrestrial technology roadmaps, as well as their plans to implement localized network resiliency to their connectivity services by deploying High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS). This combination allows for extensive coverage and flexibility in providing broadband services to users and platforms on land, in the air, and at sea.

As a distribution partner to satellite service providers, we aim to provide hybrid-orbit services, combining the strengths of various satellite constellations to optimize connectivity solutions for customers.

Our broadband connectivity solutions aim to cater to a diverse range of users and platforms, for both military and civilian applications, in order to ensure that customers across different domains can benefit from reliable and high-speed satellite connectivity.

Our software-defined satellite core network aims to enable dynamic and programmatically efficient management of satellite networks. This technology aims to improve network and constellation performance, resilience, and adaptability to changing conditions.

We aim to orchestrate a comprehensive system of technologies to deliver differentiated capabilities to revolutionize satellite communication and to deliver unparalleled capabilities and value both to our customers and to our partners.

We design comprehensive solutions for our customers that take advantage of both the proprietary technologies that we design and develop as well as the world-class technologies that we can source and integrate from partners, as outlined below:

Our cutting-edge technology includes the development of universal terminals, providing carrier-neutral satellite broadband access. These terminals are designed to meet the diverse needs of users across various sectors and domains, ensuring seamless connectivity and unparalleled performance.

We are at the forefront of implementing virtualization for satellite communications through our software-defined radios, software-defined modems and our progress towards a software-defined non-terrestrial network (NTN) that connects satellites to users and platforms across domains. This approach enhances flexibility, scalability, and efficiency, allowing for dynamic adaptation to evolving communication needs.

Our expertise extends to system integration where we blend our expertise in satellite communications and satellite network architecture with our understanding of the needs of our customers and the platforms they are operating. We can strategically source partner technologies and integrate them together with our own systems to create robust and reliable satellite communications solutions tailored to meet the mission-critical demands of our current and prospective customers.

One of our key system-level advantages is built on our team’s fabless semiconductor chip and panel design and engineering expertise, which allows us to remain asset-light while also developing state-of-the-art technologies. With a focus on delivering superior connectivity, we believe our universal terminals for satellite communications are poised to set a new high bar for the industry.

Our universal terminals for satellite communications incorporate:

We implement an electronically steered array (ESA) or FPA using glass semiconductor processes, which is the key enabler for our universal terminals capability to connect to satellites in multiple orbits from a single antenna aperture. By virtue of being able to link to different satellites in different orbits with the same hardware, we aim to enable more reliable, higher performance and more resilient satellite communications.

Our semiconductor glass antenna can also transmit and receive 50% more Mbps per square-inch than previous state-of-the-art satellite broadband terminals. This also enables us to optimize size, weight and power, while also delivering competitive performance and resiliency to customers using our universal terminals.

Our glass antenna can also deliver multi-beam connectivity that allows for seamless or “make-before-break” handovers between satellites, as well as multi-channel connectivity that uses difference frequency bands in both licensed and unlicensed spectrum.

We are developing a carrier-neutral software-defined modem in order to provide carrier-neutral broadband connectivity over our software-defined radio (SDR). Our implementation of SDR technology aims to provide secure and agile signal transmission with military-grade security features.

Our implementation of software-defined modems aims to enable the flexibility, security, adaptability and efficiency our customers need by providing programmable signal processing functions that can be reconfigured to support different modulation and coding schemes, as well as the latest protocols and standards.

Our software-defined modems aim to enable flexibility, adaptability, and efficiency by providing programmable signal processing functions that can be reconfigured to support different modulation and coding schemes, as well as the latest protocols and standards. By applying a single hardware platform for multiple standards, we aim to create a unique system to be more flexible and compatible with different satellite constellation waveforms, and more easily upgraded for new waveforms via software updates.

Both end users and our satellite operator partners can benefit from deploying our universal terminals with our high efficiency antennas and software-defined modems. Customers benefit because they can use a single terminal to communicate across satellites, orbits and operators, which means they do not need to invest in dedicated terminals for each satellite, orbit or operator they wish to connect with. Furthermore, our universal terminals aim to deliver high-performance in a package that takes up less size, weight and power than other systems, end users may experience additional benefits in terms of total cost of ownership when choosing our universal terminals.

For satellite operators, the high efficiency of our glass semiconductor antenna and the software-programmability of our modem, when used by their customers—on land, in the air, or at sea—can potentially reduce the maintenance and replacement schedule of satellites and constellations, which hare huge drivers of cost and capital expenditures across the satellite industry.

Regional Satellite Service Operation (TW)

We made strides in licensing, securing our first satellite spectrum usage permit from the Government of Taiwan. With the approval from Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs in 2023 of our satellite operator license, we will continue to be one of the few satellite service providers to offer satellite services to customers in the region. As a result, we are in the unique position to be the only Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit, or NGSO, service operator in the Taiwan market. We have established ties with operators in the LEO, MEO, GEO, and HEO sectors. 

The receipt of our satellite service spectrum usage permit in Taiwan, also qualifies us to apply for an ITU (International Telecommunication Union) operator’s membership. As a qualified ITU member, we should be able to expand our global operations by gaining access to the global radio frequency spectrum, regulatory compliance, international coordination and cooperation, and representation in global forums.

Our Markets

In recent years, with the accelerated development of the satellite industry, particularly in significant investment in LEO and MEO development, the ecosystem has matured considerably. We aim to secure a substantial market share in both the “Ground Equipment” and “Satellite Services” sectors.

According to a 2021 report by the Satellite Industry Association, these sectors represent nearly 68% of an industry valued at $386 billion. This growing market is expected to experience significant growth over the next decade and a half, reaching a total value of approximately $1,053 billion by 2040.

With the competitive advantages of our products and solutions, we aim to leverage emerging trends and capitalize on business opportunities for growth.

We recognize rapid growth in the satellite technology communications market serving customers in both the public and private sector across the civilian telecommunications, aerospace and defense sectors. Our target segments of the global market are growing from approximately $20 billion in 2023 to approximately $60 billion by 2030, representing a 16% blended compound annual growth rate (CAGR), as outlined below.

Within civilian telecommunications, the key subset of the market we are targeting is anticipated to grow from $3 billion in 2023 to $25 billion by 2030. Market reports published by NSR indicate that “non-terrestrial networks” (NTN) will become a central feature of 5G Advanced and 6G networks, and that satellite connectivity needs of MNOs will evolve from a nice-to-have “back-up” in their 4G LTE networks into a must-have “back bone” of their 5G Advanced and 6G.

Within aerospace, one of the key subsets we are targeting is commercial aviation, which is anticipated to grow from $7 billion in 2023 to $21 billion by 2030. According to annual reports by Boeing and Airbus, commercial airlines plan to outfit approximately 70% of passenger aircraft for high-throughput inflight broadband by 2030 up from just approximately 25% in 2023, meaning that delivering a solution that is approved and qualified for both retrofit and “line-fit” installations will be necessary.

Within defense, one of the key subsets of the market we are targeting is UAVs for the military, which is anticipated to grow from $12 billion in 2023 to $16 billion by 2030, according to the Teal Group. According to the same reports, an even steeper growth trajectory is anticipated in the civilian UAV market, which is forecast to grow from $7 billion in 2023 to $20 billion by 2030.

We do not yet include this projected civilian UAV market in our target segments, but we aim to be in a strong position to enter the civilian UAV market in the future after first focusing on the defense UAV market. Similarly, we see future opportunities to enter the market for both manned and unmanned maritime and land-based vehicles and platforms for the defense industry, which are complementary to our focus on the defense UAV market, as they often include the same prime contractors and military customers.

Dual-use technologies expand how satellite broadband is used and is being driven by geopolitical conflict, as has been evident in Ukraine, where satellite broadband has been deployed with great effectiveness, including in combination with UAVs.

In response to growing demand from governments and militaries, prime defense contractors in US, NATO and Japan are reportedly developing unmanned systems for both intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions (ISR) as well as for collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), or the teaming of manned and unmanned aircraft, the latter sometimes referred to as “loyal wingman”, and next generation air dominance (NGAD).

Our technologies are relevant and differentiated for all of these programs, as well as for additional manned and unmanned maritime and land-based platforms and vehicles.

Aerospace & Defense Market

In the aerospace and defense sectors, satellite communication plays a critical role in enabling various applications, including commercial aviation, in-flight connectivity (IFC), and defense ISR-type and CCA-type programs.

Commercial aviation relies on satellite communication for in-flight connectivity, enabling passengers to access high-speed internet and other services during flights. The adoption of satellite-based in-flight connectivity (IFC) solutions is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. Airlines are seeking to enhance passenger experience and differentiate their services in a competitive market.

The Fortune Business Insight report projects that approximately 70% of commercial aircraft will be equipped with high-throughput inflight broadband by 2030, up from just around 25% in 2023. This significant increase in adoption rates will necessitate both retrofitting and “line-fit” installations. As a result, the market for inflight broadband services is anticipated to grow from $7 billion to $21 billion, presenting lucrative opportunities for satellite communication providers.

In the defense sector, satellite communication supports ISR and unmanned platforms programs by providing secure and reliable communication links for unmanned aerial, maritime, and land vehicles and the vast majority of military platforms. Satellite-based communication enables real-time data transmission, command and control, and situational awareness, enhancing operational efficiency and effectiveness in defense missions.

Industry projections indicate an increase in market size from $12 billion in 2023 to $16 billion by 2030. In the Defense sector, we have been pioneering a first-of-its-kind satellite communications architecture for unmanned aerial, maritime, and land vehicles engaged in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions in collaboration with our development partner and the customer.

Defense

Unmanned platforms have revolutionized military operations with their versatility and agility. However, their reliance on connectivity handoffs between ground-based line-of-sight antennas, typically operating in C-band, and GEO, or GSO, satellites present several challenges that limit their effectiveness in certain scenarios.

Prime defense contractors in the US, NATO, Australia, and Japan are actively developing unmanned systems for ISR, and numerous other unmanned platforms to include CCA-type and NGAD applications. This strategic shift towards unmanned systems is expected to drive the demand for satellite communication technology, particularly for data transmission and remote-control capabilities, which can keep a “human-in-the-loop” (HITL).

Innovative programs such as the US Air Force’s Loyal Wingman Program, aim at enhancing collaborative combat capabilities. The program involves the deployment of 1,000 CCA with $6.2 billion budget by 2028, which we expect will require advanced satellite communication systems for real-time data sharing, over-the-horizon coordination, and mission execution. These CCA units serve as force multipliers, working in tandem with manned platforms to achieve strategic objectives and maintain battlefield superiority, but are just one example of how governments and militaries are considering how best to deploy both manned and unmanned platforms to accomplish defense objectives.

Collaborative Combat Aircraft, Concept Art (Source: Boeing Image)

Source: The Washington Post: How drones are controlled, 2014

We aim to offer unparalleled flexibility to defense unmanned platforms by enabling communication across six dimensions: domain, orbit, beam, carrier, frequency, and satellite. This innovative approach aims to allow users to establish multiple communication paths simultaneously, enhancing redundancy, resilience, and adaptability in dynamic operational environments, while also offering complementary functionality such as jamming.

We are well positioned to deliver high-value functionality that effectively balances performance with total cost of ownership. We are actively engaged in discussions with leading prime contractors to provide a differentiated satellite communications system tailored specifically for unmanned platforms across all domains to include CCA-type programs and are co-creating new concepts of employment and concepts of operation for satellite communications on these platforms.

Two high profile examples from the US Air Force include planning to spend more than $6 billion on CCA drone programs over the next five years, in addition to an estimate of $16 billion on the NGAD program over the same time period.

Commercial Aviation Connectivity

The February 2024 IATA (International Air Transport Association) Air Passenger Market Analysis report announced that industry- industry-wide air passenger traffic, measured in revenue passenger-kilometers (RPK), surpassed 2019 levels in February 2024, marking the first occurrence of full global recovery in both domestic and international travel segments (Chart 1).

Total RPK were 5.7% higher than February 2019 figures, while international and domestic traffic saw 0.9% and 13.7% growth over the same period, respectively. Passenger load factors in all segments were also close to pre-COVID levels, indicating the return of available seat supply and passenger demand on a global scale. Compared to the previous year, total traffic increased in 21.5%.

Growth of Aviation Industry

Immediately prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there were, according to Airbus and Boeing, more than 23,000 commercial aircraft flying globally, a number that was expected to more than double in the next 20 years. Both Airbus and Boeing estimated in their respective 2023 reports that the global fleet of commercial aircraft would increase from 23,000 planes in 2019 to more than 46,000 in 2042.  

The Airbus Global Market Forecast report 2023 – 2042 predicted the following:

Source:https://www.airbus.com/en/products-services/commercial-aircraft/market/global-market-forecast

Boeing, in their Commercial Market Outlook 2023-2042 Report, presents an excellent Executive Summary of the 20-Year Market Demand.

Source: https://www.boeing.com/commercial/market/commercial-market-outlook

Growth of Private Aircraft (Business Jets / VIP)

In 2022, Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) conducted a survey among senior executives of U.S. businesses with an annual revenue of over $500 million. The study showed that 89% of those surveyed expected their organizations to increase their use of business jet aviation in 2023, with 25% predicting it would increase by more than half. Such customers can be expected to consider inflight connectivity to be essential.

Rapidly Growing In-Flight Internet Markets

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expects overall traveler numbers to reach 4.0 billion in 2024 spread across 23,000 airplanes. Only about 25% of these airplanes are equipped to offer some form of onboard connectivity, and that connectively is often marked by erratic quality, slow speeds and low broadband.  Less than 25% of the world’s airline companies are providing some form of in-flight WiFi services. We believe that there is a huge market potential among the many unconnected airlines. 

According to the Boeing Report titled “Commercial Market Outlook 2019 – 2038”, it has been projected that by the end of 2030, two-thirds of the world’s aircraft fleet will have some form of connectivity, whether through retrofit or line fit at production stage. Currently, most connectivity upgrades are being done through aircraft modification as in-service aircraft are outfitted with new and high-speed systems. It is estimated that more than 1,000 commercial aircraft are being upgraded annually.

Whether aircraft connectivity is being carried out as a retrofit or built into the initial aircraft production line, demand for in-flight connectivity is increasing.

Civilian Telecommunications

In the 5G Advanced era and during the transition to 6G as defined by the 3GPP (3^rd Generation Partnership Project), the Non-Territorial Network (NTN) plays a major role in communication standards. This includes utilizing satellites across all orbits (LEO, MEO, GEO, HEO) and HAPS to extend coverage to areas currently not served by mobile communication systems, such as the sky, sea, and space.

Since the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, which has showcased the importance of communications networks as critical infrastructure for modern nations, the global landscape has been marked by geopolitical pressures.

The resilience of communication networks has emerged as a focal point of global attention with satellite communication assuming a critical and pivotal role.

We are prioritizing civilian telecommunications within the satellite communication industry, alongside Aerospace & Defense. This focus encompasses two key sectors: mobile backhaul via satellite and network resilience.

Mobile Backhaul via Satellite

The mobile backhaul sector is projected to see revenue growth from $3 billion in 2023 to $25 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.6% (Source: NSR “Wireless Backhaul via Satellite, 15^th Edition Report). The number of 4G base stations is approximately 6 million to 7 million, while that of 5G is 3.8 million (Sources: GSMA, Huawei). Similarly, the network resilience sector is forecasted to experience revenue growth from $16.2 billion in 2023 to $33 billion by 2028 (Source: Mordor Intelligence: Network Resilience Market Forecast).

These market statistics clearly signal potential business opportunities that the Company aims to actively pursue.

In telecommunications networks, the backhaul network provides high-capacity connections between cell sites and the core network, utilizing fiber optic cables, microwave links, and satellites. Satellite transmission is predominantly employed for mobile backhaul not only in remote areas but also in major backbones and serves as a crucial technology.

Satellite backhaul offers an alternative method for connecting cell sites and the core network. Despite being traditionally considered a last resort by mobile operators due to past experiences, recent advancements in satellite technologies, combined with professional services, have addressed these concerns. Today, cost-effective, and high-performing fully managed satellite backhaul solutions are readily available. These solutions empower mobile operators to swiftly deploy 4G, 5G, 5G advanced or Internet of Things (IoT) services in any location. Apart from rural deployments, mobile backhaul via satellite also serves as a backup and backbone solution in the event of outages on fiber or microwave backhauled networks.

At present, MNOs are transitioning their perception of satellite connectivity needs, moving from considering it a supplementary backup to an essential backbone, particularly as non-terrestrial networks (NTN) become integrated into 5G Advanced and 6G systems. Amidst this shift, our products and solutions are well-aligned with and fulfill the evolving market demands.

Currently, MNOs are contending with the challenges posed by oversized and costly antennas. We address this issue with our glass semiconductor flat panel antennas, featuring small form factors and high throughput capabilities. These high throughput antennas are well-suited for managing large volumes of data transmission in mobile backhaul and mobile backbone applications while also facilitating compact installation on cell sites, effectively resolving this prevalent telecommunications industry challenge.

NTT DoCoMo’s document on “Research and Development for 6G Wireless” emphasizes the pivotal role of satellites in the research and development of 6G. This strategic emphasis on satellite technology as a solution has been integrated into their practical technical plan and investment strategy.

Source Link: https://www.docomo.ne.jp/27nglish/binary/pdf/info/media_center/event/mwc24/Research_and_Development_for_6G_Wireless.pdf

We are engaged in close collaboration with strategic partners, including global telecommunications service operators, telecommunications equipment manufacturers, and solution providers.

We are poised to actively pursue business opportunities within the 5G and 6G ecosystem, creating a promising future and generating solid revenue income.

Network Resilience

Network resilience is becoming increasingly crucial due to several interconnected factors. The growing dependence on digital services and interconnected systems amplifies the impact of network outages and disruptions, making them more costly and disruptive. Moreover, the escalation of cyberattacks, natural disasters, geographical conflicts, and infrastructure failures underscores the significance of resilient networks capable of enduring a variety of challenges. As the world moves towards 5G, 6G, and beyond, with a focus on low latency and high reliability, network resilience emerges as an essential design principle to ensure uninterrupted connectivity in the face of evolving threats and increased network reliance.

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Function Virtualization (NFV) are crucial technologies that provide dynamic and flexible solutions for network management. SDN centralizes control of network traffic, enabling swift rerouting and resource allocation during disruptions. Similarly, NFV enables virtualized network functions, allowing for rapid deployment and scaling of resources to meet evolving demands or emergencies. The integration of these technologies strengthens network resilience and adaptability, ensuring smooth operations even in challenging scenarios.

The integration of diverse technologies plays a crucial role in enhancing network robustness and resilience. By combining various technologies such as fiber optics, satellites, and microwave links for backhaul, a more resilient network infrastructure can be established. Moreover, leveraging edge computing to process data locally reduces reliance on centralized infrastructure, thereby further strengthening network resilience. This strategic integration of diverse technologies ensures a more flexible and adaptable network architecture capable of withstanding various challenges and disruptions.

Major countries and governments worldwide are increasingly prioritizing network resilience. These entities are allocating significant budgets and making efforts to enhance national network infrastructure to address challenges and prevent disruptions in communication services. This emphasis extends to leveraging satellite technology and service providers, including LEO and MEO solutions.

Our Strategy

Spotlight: Utilizing Our Universal Terminal for Satellite Communications on Unmanned Platforms

We are pioneering a breakthrough in the application of satellite communication technology by installing our universal terminals on unmanned aerial, maritime, and land vehicles. Unlike traditional C-band communications, our small form factor antenna and terminal aims to deliver new capabilities and performance for unmanned operations with compelling size, weight and power.

Today: Challenges of Current UAV Connectivity with GEO Satellites

While unmanned platforms have revolutionized military operations with their versatility and agility, their reliance on connectivity handoffs between ground-based line-of-sight antennas, typically operating in C-band, and Geostationary Equatorial Orbit (GEO), or geosynchronous orbit (GSO), satellites present several challenges that limit their effectiveness in certain scenarios.

While unmanned platforms have brough compelling capabilities to militaries and governments over the last two decades, in the last two years with the conflict involving Ukraine, the urgent need for the capabilities of unmanned platforms to continue to evolve has become evident.

Aerkomm’s Solution: “Multi-Path ^6” (domain, orbit, beam, carrier, frequency, satellite)  

We aim to offer unparalleled flexibility to defense unmanned platforms by enabling communication across six dimensions: domain, orbit, beam, carrier, frequency, and satellite. This innovative approach aims to allow users to establish multiple communication paths simultaneously, enhancing redundancy, resilience, and adaptability in dynamic operational environments, while also offering complementary functionality such as jamming.

Our universal terminal for defense aims to drive a paradigm shift in unmanned platform satellite communication, offering unparalleled connectivity, resilience, and security for mission-critical operations. With our innovative solution, unmanned platform operators can confidently navigate complex operational environments, ensuring continuous communication and mission success.

With our extensive experience in satellite communication technology, we are uniquely positioned to serve as a systems integrator for defense payloads. By leveraging our hardware and software platforms, we have the capability to seamlessly integrate onboard sensor payloads and other mission-specific equipment, ensuring interoperability, compatibility, and performance optimization in complex operational environments. 

Our Solutions and Business Models

Defense & Aerospace

Our Defense Connectivity Solutions

Our universal terminal for defense aims to drive a paradigm shift in unmanned platform satellite communication, offering unparalleled connectivity, resilience, and security for mission-critical operations. With our innovative solution, unmanned platform operators can confidently navigate complex operational environments, ensuring continuous communication and mission success.

With our extensive experience in satellite communication technology, we are uniquely positioned to serve as a systems integrator for defense payloads. By leveraging our hardware and software platforms, we have the capability to seamlessly integrate onboard sensor payloads and other mission-specific equipment, ensuring interoperability, compatibility, and performance optimization in complex operational environments. 

We are currently developing three solutions which can be offered to the defense market.

Defense Connectivity Solutions market.

Within the defense segment, our main source of revenue is expected to be derived from contracts with militaries, governments and defense contractors for both the sale of our systems—the universal terminal for defense—as well as subscription-based plans for the bandwidth connectivity from our selected satellite operator partners.

We aim to achieve this with both retrofit solutions on manned and unmanned defense platforms already in operation being maintained by militaries and governments, as well as line-fit solutions for new manned and unmanned systems being assembled at the different defense contractors’ facilities prior to delivery to the respective militaries.

We already have an agreement in place with our first classified defense development partner and customer to develop a first-of-its-kind satellite communications architecture for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) engaged in classified ISR missions.

We are in advanced discussion with this development partner and customer to expand the engagement based on successful technology demonstrations in 2023 and 2024. We are also directly engaged with several additional potential partners developing unmanned platforms for ISR and CCA-type missions regarding implementing our connectivity solutions as part of their programs. We cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions. 

To capitalize on the increasing demand for satellite communications for terrestrial and maritime installations for militaries and governments, we will aim to sell or to integrate end-to-end satellite communications systems to militaries, governments and defense contractors. In addition to selling integrated end-to-end satellite communications systems, we will also aim to sell to these military and government customers the bandwidth required for the operation of our services, priced on a subscription plan basis.

In some cases, we expect that the terrestrial and maritime installations may be components of a wholistic end-to-end satellite communications solution, but in other cases we expect that militaries and government customers may contract for standalone terrestrial or maritime solutions, such as to provide connectivity to individual ships or command posts.

We already have an agreement in place with our first classified defense development partner and customer for maritime and terrestrial installations as part of our end-to-end solution to support the classified ISR missions mentioned above. We also already are in discussions for standalone terrestrial customers. We cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions. 

Within the defense segment, as an additional service to the customers interested in installing our satellite communications solutions on their manned and unmanned platforms, we are also able to support integration with onboard sensor payloads, and other payloads required by certain customer missions, as well as guidance, navigation and controls (GNC) systems, which we are already connecting to through our hardware and our software.

We already have an agreement in place with our first classified defense development partner and customer for a certain level of systems integrator support for the UAV engaged in the classified ISR missions mentioned above.

We also already are in discussions for an agreement with another systems integration partner expressing interest in our universal terminal for defense as well as our wrap-around services for system integration with other payloads. We cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions. 

Our Defense Business Solutions 

We can provide different business solutions to defense contractors, militaries and governments:

Militaries, governments and defense contractors having an existing fleet manned and unmanned platforms already operating in service will require a retrofit solution. For those defense customers who already have manned and unmanned systems in operation with no multi-orbit satellite communications system installed, we aim to offer a retrofit solution, which could be used in addition to or in place of an existing satellite communications system, if any. In most situations, we expect that the fleet owner would be responsible for installing our systems under our supervision, as well as uninstalling any systems they may want to remove. The fleet owner would also be required to purchase the necessary satellite bandwidth from us to provide connectivity to its fleet.

Defense contractors manufacturing manned and unmanned platforms to which they want to add our multi-orbit universal terminals will require a line-fit solution. In most situations, we expect the installation would be done by the manufacturer of the manned or unmanned platforms in production and certified with the platform, so our systems would be delivered to the manufacturer upon request of the defense contractors or of the militaries and governments that are purchasing the platforms. 

Our customers, militaries and governments, may require custom, proprietary or classified system level integrations on the manned and unmanned platforms onto which they want our communications solutions to be installed, and may request that we provide wrap-around system integrator services to perform such installations and integrations. Similarly, some of our defense contractors partners may, from time to time, require additional system integrator support from our team due to the complex design of contemporary manned and unmanned systems. In some situations, we expect the installation of third-party payloads onto the manned and unmanned systems may still be done by the manufacturer of the manned or unmanned platforms in production, but with close supervision by and certification by our team.

Commercial Aviation Connectivity and Entertainment Solutions

We have been developing two systems which can be offered to the aviation market.

Commercial Aviation Connectivity and Entertainment market business models.

Within the commercial aviation segment, our main source of revenue is expected to be derived from contracts with commercial airlines for both the sale of our systems—both the universal terminal as well as the distributed content system—as well as subscription-based plans for the bandwidth connectivity from our selected satellite operator partners. We aim to achieve this with both retrofit solutions on commercial aircraft already in operation by airline customers, as well as line-fit solutions for new aircraft being assembled at the different aircraft manufacturers’ facilities prior to delivery to the respective aircraft lessors and airline customers. 

We already have a definitive agreement in place with our first commercial airline customer, Hong Kong Airlines (discussed below). We are in advanced discussion with several additional potential customers directly through our corporate network. We cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions.

We aim to complete our universal terminal for aviation system approval by Airbus and receiving the applicable airworthiness certifications, namely the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), by the last quarter of 2025. We will then be able to begin providing our universal terminal for aviation systems for installation on commercial airline aircraft.  

To capitalize on the private business aviation market, we will aim to sell our systems to corporate jet owners through the Airbus Corporate Jets (ACJ) and Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) programs. In addition to selling our systems, we will also aim to sell to these corporate jet aircraft owners the bandwidth required for the operation of our services, priced on a subscription plan basis.

We already have an agreement in place with our first corporate jet and launch customer, MJet GMBH (discussed below), and we have had advanced discussion with several additional potential customers both directly through our corporate network and through Airbus. We cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions. 

Sales of our universal terminal for aviation system to the corporate jet market will also require the EASA and FAA certification, which we expect to complete by the last quarter of 2025, as mentioned above.

To the extent that eVTOL aircraft become a real product, we aim to be in a position to sell our solutions to those companies and platforms as well.

Commercial Aviation Business Solutions 

We can provide different business solutions to airline customers and business jet operators, all of which generate revenue.

Retrofit solution for Airlines

We aim to offer a retrofit solution to potential commercial airline customers having an existing fleet with aircraft in operation having no satellite communications installed. In most situations, we expect that the fleet owner would be responsible for installing our systems, under our supervision, as well as uninstalling any systems they may want to remove. The fleet owner would also be required to purchase the necessary satellite bandwidth from us to provide connectivity to its fleet.

Line Fit solution for Airlines

We also aim to offer our multi-orbit universal terminals as a line-fit solution. Under this situation, the installation would be done by the manufacturer of the commercial aircraft and certified with the aircraft, so our systems would be delivered to the manufacturer upon request of the aircraft manufacturer or its customers, either commercial airlines or aircraft lessors, that are purchasing the platforms. The fleet owner would also be required to purchase the necessary satellite bandwidth from us to provide connectivity on its fleet.

Our Contracts with Commercial Aviation Partners

Airbus SAS

On November 30, 2018, we entered into an agreement with Airbus SAS (“Airbus”), pursuant to which Airbus aims to develop and certify a complete retrofit solution allowing the installation of our “AERKOMM K++” system on Airbus’ single aisle aircraft family including the Airbus A319/320/321, for both Current Engine Option (CEO) and New Engine Option (NEO) models.

We expect to expand our agreement with Airbus to include other Airbus models including the Airbus A330, A340, A350 and A380 series. Airbus would then apply for and obtain on our behalf a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the European Aviation Safety Agency, or EASA, as well as from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration or FAA, for our retrofit universal terminal for aviation, or AERKOMM K++ system.  

Airbus agreed to provide us with the retrofit solution, including the Service Bulletin and the material kits including the update of technical and operating manuals pertaining to the aircraft and provision of aircraft configuration control. The timeframe for the completion and testing of this retrofit solution, including the certification, is expected to be in the fourth quarter of 2025, although there is no guarantee that the project will be successfully completed in the projected timeframe.

Multiple airlines, and in particular aircraft lessors, will accept only Service Bulletins issued by the aircraft manufacturers for the retrofit installation of any system on board their aircraft. Our agreement with Airbus aims to ensure that our system will meet this requirement for aircraft lessors who intend to purchase Airbus aircraft, although it does not guarantee that airlines or aircraft lessors will purchase our AERKOMM K++ system.  

Airbus Interior Services 

On July 24, 2020, our wholly owned subsidiary, Aerkomm Malta, entered into an agreement with Airbus Interior Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Airbus as a follow-on to the agreement that Aerkomm signed with Airbus on November 30, 2018. Airbus agreed to develop, install and certify the Aerkomm K++ System on a prototype A320 aircraft to EASA and FAA certification standards, and Airbus Interior Services agreed to provide current cabin upgrade solutions for Airbus aircraft operators while bringing additional flexibility and reduced lead times to the cabin upgrade process.

under this agreement, Airbus Interior Services will provide and certify, via the Airbus Design Organization Approval process, a complete retrofit solution to develop EASA/FAA certified Service Bulletins, to supply related Aircraft Modification Kits and to install the Aerkomm K++ Connectivity solution on the A320 family of commercial aircraft. This agreement also includes Airbus support for the integration of the Aerkomm K++ System components on the aircraft including ARINC 791 structural reinforcements and related engineering work.

Airbus Interior Services will provide support for European National Airworthiness Authorities (NAA) certification as required in addition to EASA certification. Airbus Interior Services will also provide on-site technical support at the Maintenance Repair Organization (MRO) base for the first aircraft retrofit of each new customer.

We plan to install the Airbus Interior Services-created Service Bulletin and Airbus kits for the AERKOMM K++ retrofit solution first on the Hong Kong Airlines fleet of 12 Airbus A320 aircraft, following our certification approval. With this installation, Hong Kong Airlines should become Aerkomm’s first commercial airline customer. 

Hong Kong Airlines 

In June 2015, we entered into a master agreement with Hong Kong Airlines Limited, or Hong Kong Airlines, to install IFEC systems on-board their aircraft. 

On January 30, 2020, further to the master agreement with Hong Kong Airlines, we signed an agreement with Hong Kong Airlines to provide to Hong Kong Airlines both of its Aerkomm AirCinema and AERKOMM K++ solutions. 

We aim to provide our universal terminal for aviation, or AERKOMM K++ system, for installation on Hong Kong Airlines’ fleet of 12 Airbus A320 and 5 Airbus A330-300 aircraft as well as our AERKOMM AirCinema system for the Hong Kong Airlines Airbus A320 aircraft. Hong Kong Airlines aims to become our first commercial airliner launch customer. 

On November 17, 2021, we signed a new agreement with Hong Kong Airlines Ltd and Ejectt Inc. (formerly known as Yuanjiu Inc.). Based on the long-term relationship and anticipated further co-operation between Aerkomm and Hong Kong Airlines, we agreed to aim to provide to Hong Kong Airlines a LEO-compatible universal for aviation with LEO constellation service when available. We will aim to deliver our universal terminal for aviation with a full certified Service Bulletin by Airbus.

Our universal terminal for aviation aims to introduce high-speed internet access to the seatback screens of Hong Kong Airlines’ Airbus A320 aircraft, connected via the distributed content system for airlines. Instead of the traditionally preloaded and fixed selection of in-flight entertainment, passengers would have access to high-speed internet steaming services for videos, music and social media.

In order to install the AERKOMM K++ system on the Hong Kong Airlines aircraft, we will have to obtain local approval for the AERKOMM K++ system from the Hong Kong Civil Aviation (HKCAD). This HKCAD local approval will be based on our obtaining the Airbus Service Bulletin, which we expect to receive from Airbus, together with EASA certification, by sometime in 2025 or 2026.

Once we receive the Airbus Service Bulletin and the EASA certification, jointly with the support of Airbus, we will be able to apply to the HKCAD for the required local approval.

Other Airline Partners and Business Jet Prospective Customers

We are actively working with prospective airline customers to provide them with the universal terminal for aviation, or our AERKOMM K++ system. 

In connection with the Airbus project, we have also identified owners of Airbus Corporate Jet, or ACJ, as potential customers of our AERKOMM K++ system. To capitalize on this additional market, we plan to sell our AERKOMM K++ system hardware for installation on ACJ corporate jets and provide connectivity through subscription-based plans. This new corporate jet market could generate additional revenue and income for our company. As discussed below, we have entered into an agreement with Mjet GMBH, an Airbus ACJ customer.   

While, to date, we have been concentrating on Airbus customers in view of our existing agreement with Airbus, our current plan is to also begin marketing to Boeing aircraft customers and Boeing Business Jets (BBJ) customers, and we intend to acquire the necessary certification of our AERKOMM K++ system equipment for the different Boeing aircraft models, with a particular focus on the Boeing B737 aircraft family.  

We aim to enter into business agreements with additional airline partners and corporate jet owners, which would allow our universal terminals for aviation to be installed together with our bandwidth services provided, on additional fleet aircraft. Under any such agreements, we expect that the airlines will commit to have our equipment installed on some or all the aircraft they operate. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to enter into any such additional agreements. 

Other Agreements and Understandings with our Business Partners

Mjet Definitive Agreement: On March 6, 2019, we signed a General Terms Agreement (GTA) with Mjet GMBH, or Mjet, a corporate jet owner operating an Airbus ACJ A319 based in Vienna, Austria. On June 11, 2019, we converted this GTA into a definitive agreement with Mjet, and on June 12, 2019, Mjet placed a first purchase order with Aerkomm. The purchase order, which remains valid, provides for the provision, installation, testing and certification of our AERKOMM K++ system equipment, including the Airbus Service Bulletin and associated material kit and related connectivity services, on an Mjet Airbus ACJ A319 aircraft under the supervision of Airbus. Assuming the installation, testing and certification of our AERKOMM K++ system on the Mjet A319 (which is expected by sometime in 2025 or 2026) is successful, something we cannot guarantee at this time, Mjet will pay us a one-time fee for our equipment and a monthly fee for our connectivity services, and we will also aim to begin charging Mjet for the bandwidth required to use the AERKOMM K++ system services. Assuming the success of this installation, Mjet will likely become the first recurring payment customer of our AERKOMM K++ system as well as being the launch customer of our Aerkomm K++ solution.  We cannot assure you, however, we will be able to deliver on the agreement with Mjet, or that the Mjet GTA will lead to any Aerkomm product sales.

Vietjet Air: On October 25, 2021, we signed an agreement with Vietjet Air (“Vietjet”) to provide them with our Aerkomm AirCinema In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity (“IFEC”) solutions. Under the terms of the agreement, which remains valid, we aim to provide to Vietjet our Aerkomm AirCinema Cube IFEC system for installation on Vietjet’s fleet of Airbus A320, A321 and Airbus A330-300 aircraft. We cannot assure you, however, we will be able to deliver on the agreement with Vietjet, or that the Vietjet agreement will lead to any Aerkomm product sales.

Thai Smile MOU: On October 19, 2021, which remains valid until October 2024, we entered into a nonbinding memorandum of understanding, which we refer to as the Thai Smile MOU, with Thai Smile Airways Company Limited, a company organized under the laws of Thailand, pursuant to which the parties intend to collaboratively market and provide their products and services to passengers to the Thai-based airline fleet.

Under the terms of the Thai Smile MOU, which remains valid, the parties intend to develop, install and operate in-flight connectivity systems onboard the Thai-based airline fleet and provide related services to its passengers. We cannot assure you, however, we will be able to enter into a definitive agreement with Thai Smile, or that the Thai Smile MOU will lead to any Aerkomm product sales.

Contracts with Satellite Partners

SES Agreement:

Aerkomm and New Skies Satellites B.V. (“SES”), a Dutch company that operates a constellation of satellites in medium-earth orbit (MEO) and geostationary-earth orbit (GEO), entered into a master services agreement dated January 19, 2022 and under such agreement has entered into multiple service orders pursuant to which SES has provided the Company terminal equipment and satellite connectivity and other related services.

Aerkomm and SES also entered into a non-binding cooperation agreement dated January 10, 2022 (see Exhibit No. 10.77) in which the parties confirmed their intent to explore opportunities to collaborate with respect to technical and commercial matters making use of their combined service offerings.

We aim to expand its technical and commercial collaboration with SES in the future. We cannot assure you, however, we will be able to enter into additional material definitive agreements with SES, or that our relationship with SES will lead to any Aerkomm product sales.

Civilian Telecommunications Solutions

We are developing two solutions which can be offered to the civilian telecommunications market.

Civilian Telecommunications Solutions market business models

Within the civilian telecommunications segment, our main source of revenue is expected to be derived from contracts with mobile network operators or with mobile network equipment providers for both the leasing of our systems—the universal terminal for network resilience and the universal terminal for NTN—as well as subscription-based plans for the bandwidth connectivity from our selected satellite operator partners, where we are the distribution partner.

We aim to achieve this with hardware leasing solutions, which will provide more consistent recurring revenue, while we also aim to ensure that our customers receive the latest updates to our technology to ensure they are receiving the best service to meet their requirements. To the extent that this model would require a significant amount of working capital, we would aim to secure through a partnership with a leasing company or an asset-based financing partner.

We successfully secured the first stage bid for the verification project titled “Emerging Technology Application for Enhancing Communication Network Resilience in Emergencies or War” from the Taiwan Telecom Technology Center (TTC) on August 9, 2023. This extensive network setup is designed to validate the effectiveness of the heterogeneous resilient network architecture we proposed.

We are also in discussion with mobile network operators and selected key vendors to the mobile network operator ecosystem to secure our first commercial contracts in this segment. In parallel, we have kicked off discussions with leasing companies and financing partners to secure the necessary working capital for this business model. We cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions.

To manage our working capital balance, we may not be able to provide a hardware leasing model to our customers at this time. In the short term, our main source of revenue may be derived from contracts with mobile network operators or with mobile network equipment providers for both the sale of our systems—the universal terminal for network resilience and the universal terminal for NTN—as well as subscription-based plans for the bandwidth connectivity from our selected satellite operator partners, where we are the value-added reseller.

While under this model, we will not receive as much recurring revenue, until we can secure the appropriate leasing or financing partner this will be the most likely model to be implemented.

As noted above, while we are in discussions to secure our first commercial contract in this segment, we cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions. 

Our customers, principally mobile network operators, may require a bundled solution with a single charge either to Aerkomm, if we are providing a multi-orbit and multi-carrier connectivity solution, or to the selected satellite operator partner, in which case the customer would be charged a monthly fee to cover the bundle of both the universal terminals installed and the satellite bandwidth required or used. In these situations, we will agree a revenue sharing formula between ourselves and the selected satellite operators who are providing bandwidth to the customer through our system. Due to the small size, weight and power of our universal terminals, we aim to make it economical for our customers to procure satellite communications solutions at more sites across and within their networks than would be reasonable, or even practical, using a larger, less performant terminal. Therefore, by enabling net new site-acquisition for satellite communications, we aim to receive a commensurate share of the revenue generated from our customers at those sites that are enabled by the size, weight, power and performance of our universal terminals.

As noted above, while we are in discussions to secure our first commercial contract in this segment, we cannot give any assurances at this time, however, that we will be able to successfully complete any of these additional discussions. 

Our Contracts with Civilian Telecommunications Partners

In Taiwan, the Company’s subsidiary, Aerkomm Taiwan Inc., in collaboration with its exclusive agent, EJECTT Inc., successfully secured the first stage bid for the verification project titled “Emerging Technology Application for Enhancing Communication Network Resilience in Emergencies or War” from the Taiwan Telecom Technology Center (TTC) on August 9, 2023. The extensive network setup we proposed, “Asynchronous Satellite Network Leasing and Transmission Service Procurement Project,” is designed to validate the effectiveness of the heterogeneous resilient network architecture.

Acquisitions and Dispositions

In our fiscal year 2023, we announced the acquisition of Mesh Tech, a developer of distributed computing solutions. This acquisition enhanced our software capabilities and distributed computing portfolio for both the Aerospace & Defense and Civilian Telecommunications segments, which we expect to drive both customer acquisition and retention in the future.

We aim to continue to evaluate opportunities to advance our strategy and to better serve our customers and our partners through both acquisitions and dispositions in the future.

Research & Development (R&D)

The industries in which we compete are subject to rapid technological developments, evolving standards, changes in customer requirements and continuing developments in the communications and networking environment. Our continuing ability to adapt to these changes, and to develop innovative satellite and communications technologies, and new and enhanced products and services, is a significant factor in maintaining or improving our competitive position and our prospects for growth.

We continue to make significant investments in next-generation technologies and communications product and services development. We conduct the majority of our R&D activities in-house and have R&D and engineering staff.

Focused, efficient investments in research and development are important to our future growth and competitive position in the marketplace. Our product development activities focus on products that we consider viable revenue opportunities to support all of our segments. Our research and development efforts are directly related to timely development of new and enhanced services and related products that are central to our core business strategy and our ability to drive profitable and sustainable growth.

The industries in which we compete are subject to rapid technological developments, evolving industry standards, changes in customer requirements, and new service and product introductions and enhancements. As a result, our success depends in part upon our ability, on a cost-effective and timely basis, to continue to enhance our existing services and to develop and introduce new products and services that improve performance and meet customers’ operational and cost requirements.

Our current research and development activities relate to antennas, modems, distributed computing, and multi-orbit service development, enhancing our universal terminal product lines with new features desired by our customers, and integrating available geostationary orbit (GSO) and emerging non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) products and services into our overall satellite communications offering.

Intellectual Property Rights

We currently hold intellectual property rights relating to various aspects of our hardware products, software and services. We believe that our ability to compete effectively depends in part on our ability to protect these intellectual property rights and our proprietary information. We rely primarily on copyright and trade secret laws, as well as trademarks, service marks and trade dress, to protect our valuable products and services. We use confidentiality undertakings and licensing arrangements to protect our intellectual property rights worldwide. In the future, when appropriate, we may seek to file patent applications to protect innovations arising from our research, development and design activities.

Manufacturing Operations

We outsource our manufacturing operations to well-known contract manufacturers located primarily in Taiwan and Japan, and we aim to engage manufacturing partners in North America, in the future. We rely on third party foundries or companies that use third party foundries for manufacture of our semiconductor devices that are Application Specific Integrated Circuits (“ASICs”). These foundries are located primarily in Taiwan. We also outsource printed circuit board production and amorphous silicon or glass substrate semiconductor thin-film-transistor (TFT) manufacturing.

Outsourcing our operations to manufacturers and foundries allows us to reduce our fixed costs, maintain production flexibility. Our proprietary products are manufactured to our designs with standard and custom components. Most of the components are available from multiple sources. We have several single-sourced supplier relationships, either because alternative sources are not yet available or because the relationship is advantageous to us.

Our manufacturing operations are dependent on relationships with these suppliers who are subject to occasional supply chain disruptions. As is the case across the industry, if key suppliers fail to provide timely and reliable supply of components, we could experience manufacturing delays that could adversely affect our consolidated results of operations in a material way. In an effort to mitigate supply chain exposure, we have increased our inventory over historical levels and will monitor whether adjustments to inventory levels are necessary to mitigate any future exposures.

Further, a range of conditions and circumstances beyond our control such as global conflicts, recessionary economic conditions in various regions of the world or a recurrence of the Covid-19 pandemic could disrupt the availability of raw materials and components as well as our capacity to make and distribute our products.

Raw Materials, Components and Services

We purchase raw materials and most of the components used in our manufacturing processes, such as printed circuit boards, injection-molded plastic parts, machined metal components, connectors and housings. In addition, we purchase third party services, predominantly networking and mobile broadband services, to support the delivery of our solutions. The materials, molds and dies, subassemblies and components purchased from other manufacturers, and other materials and supplies used in our manufacturing processes are generally available from multiple sources.

We believe there is a sufficient number of acceptable vendors for the components we purchase. We regularly evaluate both domestic and foreign suppliers for quality, dependability and cost effectiveness. From time to time, the cost and availability of materials and services is affected by the demands of other industries, as well as other factors.

Whenever practical, we seek to establish multiple sources for the purchase of raw materials, components and services to achieve competitive pricing, maintain flexibility, reduce tariff exposure, and protect against supply disruption. When possible, we employ a company-wide procurement strategy designed to reduce the purchase price of materials, purchased components and services.

For reasons of quality assurance, scarcity or cost effectiveness, certain components and raw materials used in the manufacturing of our products, as well as certain services utilized in the delivery of our solutions, are available only from a limited number of suppliers or from a sole source supplier. We work with our suppliers to develop contingency plans and redundancy intended to assure continuity of supply while maintaining high quality and reliability. In some cases, we established long-term supply contracts with our suppliers.

Due to the scarcity or market volatility of certain raw materials, purchased components and services, we may not be able to quickly re-establish additional or replacement sources for certain components, materials or services. In the event that we are unable to obtain sufficient quantities of raw materials or components, or unable to obtain sufficient access to the services needed to deliver our solutions on commercially reasonable terms or in a timely manner, our ability to manufacture and deliver our products and services on a timely and cost-competitive basis may be compromised, which may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We also experienced increased raw material costs. We are continuing to monitor global developments, including the impact of inflation, and are prepared to implement actions that we determine to be necessary to sustain our business.

Competition

We compete primarily in the communications technology industry. This industry is characterized by rapid technological advances and evolving industry standards. This market can be affected significantly by new product introductions and marketing activities of industry participants. It is possible new market entrants may market and sell disruptive technologies that impact one or more of our product or service offerings. In addition, we may compete with companies to acquire new businesses or technologies and the competition to secure such assets may be intense.

We will compete for customers on the basis of existing and planned product features, service and software application capabilities, company reputation, brand recognition, technical support, alliance relationships, the quality and reliability of our offerings, product development capabilities, price and availability. While we believe that no competitor currently offers a comparable range of products and services, multiple companies do compete with us with respect to one or more of our product and service offerings.

With respect to many of our product and service offerings, we face competition from companies who dedicate more resources and attention to a narrower product and service offering compared to the breadth of our business. As the marketplace for multi-orbit satellite connectivity products and solutions continues to grow, we expect to encounter increased competition. Some of these competitors may have access to significantly more financial and technical resources than we possess which could give them advantages in their ability to develop new and better offerings, to meet customer demands, to comply more quickly with new regulatory regimes and to promote and sell their products.

We encounter intense competition in the markets we serve, and we expect the intensity of competition to increase in the future. Many of our primary competitors are large, well-established companies, many have substantially greater financial, managerial, technical, marketing, operational, and other resources than we do, and others have entered the markets with standardized and widely accepted technology and services. At the same time, many of our competitors are also our potential partners, especially satellite operators that have traditionally vertically integrated in providing customer terminals specific to their satellites or constellations.

Recently, SpaceX’s Starlink has emerged as a significant competitor with flat panel, electronically steered array (ESA) terminals and its new LEO network. Other LEO services, such as Eutelsat OneWeb and Amazon’s Project Kuiper are also entering the market. SpaceX’s Starlink, Amazon’s Project Kuiper and Eutelsat OneWeb are all potential partners, but it is not guaranteed that we can secure commercial agreements that define mutually beneficial partnerships between our companies. In addition, we face some competition from providers of parabolic antennas, which include KVH, Intellian and Cobham SATCOM, among others.

The emergence of ESA terminals from companies like Starlink has significantly increased competitive pressure on traditional parabolic antennas, but these incumbents appear to be well-established with loyal customers, as well. In the market for commercial aviation connectivity, we face competition from Ball Aerospace, recently acquired by BAE Systems, as well as ThinKom.

Government Procurement

Substantial portions of our current and future revenues are and will be generated from contracts and subcontracts with government agencies. Such contracts are subject to a competitive bid process and are awarded on the basis of technical merit, personnel qualifications, experience and price. We also receive some contract awards involving special technical capabilities on a negotiated, noncompetitive basis due to our unique mix of communication products, satellite services, engineering capabilities and technical expertise in specialized areas.

Our future revenues and income could be materially affected by changes in government procurement policies and related oversight, a reduction in expenditures for the products and services we provide, and other risks generally associated with federal government contracts.

We provide products and services under government contracts that usually require performance over a period of several months to multiple years. Long-term contracts may be impacted based on when the government appropriated funds are available and to what level, which may result in a delay, reduction or termination of these contracts.

Government contracts may be performed under cost-reimbursement contracts, time-and-materials contracts and fixed-price contracts. Cost-reimbursement contracts provide for reimbursement of costs and payment of a fee. The fee may be either fixed by the contract or variable, based upon cost control, quality, delivery and the customer’s subjective evaluation of the work.

Government contracts may be terminated, in whole or in part, at the convenience of the relevant government office. If a termination for convenience occurs, the government office generally is obligated to pay for work completed or services rendered and/or the cost incurred by us under the contract, which may include a fee or allowance for profit. Contracts with prime contractors may have negotiated termination schedules that apply. When we participate as a subcontractor, we are at risk if the prime contractor does not perform its contract. Similarly, when we act as a prime contractor employing subcontractors, we are at risk if a subcontractor does not perform its subcontract.

Government Regulation

We are subject to the laws and regulations of the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions in which we provide and sell our satellite communication products and services, including those of the Taiwan and Japan. Many of the countries where our customers use our products and services have licensing and regulatory requirements for the importation and use of satellite communications and reception equipment, including the use of such equipment in territorial waters, the transmission of satellite signals on certain radio frequencies, the transmission of VoIP services using such equipment, and, in some cases, the reception of certain video programming services.

In the U.S., many of these matters are regulated by the Federal Communications Commission. In other countries or foreign jurisdictions where we may aim to provide and sell our satellite communication products and services in the future, many of these matters are regulated by the telecom regulatory authority of each national government. While there are attempts to harmonize and standardize requirements among international regulators, there is still a significant amount of heterogeneity in licensing conditions and enforcement on a country-by-country basis.

Furthermore, due to the rapid pace of advancement of satellite communications technology, the regulatory landscape is similarly evolving, so we are at risk of our technology not fitting neatly into an existing licensing category and thereby slowing our access to a given market as we seek a path to service which remains in compliance with all local regulation.

Radio-frequency and Communications Regulation - International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

The orbital location and frequencies for our partner satellites are subject to the ITU’s regulations, including its frequency registration and coordination procedures, and its various provisions on spectrum usage. Those procedures are specified in the ITU Radio Regulations and seek to facilitate shared international use of limited spectrum and orbital resources in a manner that avoids harmful interference. Among other things, the ITU regulations set forth procedures for establishing international priority with respect to the use of such resources, deadlines for bringing satellite networks into use in order to maintain such priority, and coordination rights and obligations with respect to other networks, which vary depending on whether such networks have higher or lower ITU priority.

The ITU regulations provide allocations or designations for how spectrum can be used for various purposes, and whether such uses operate on a primary or secondary basis with respect to one another. Secondary uses may not cause harmful interference to primary uses and may not claim interference protection from primary uses. The orbital arc is becoming increasingly congested with respect to such ITU filings and the satellite networks operated under those filings.

The ITU’s Radio Regulations are also subject to change at periodic ITU World Radiocommunication Conferences (WRCs), and their application is determined by various governing bodies within the ITU. WRCs typically are convened approximately every four years, with the last one occurring at the end of calendar year 2023.

Other Legal Requirements

As a result of our international operations, we are subject to a number of additional legal requirements, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the U.K. Bribery Act and the customs, export, trade sanctions and anti-boycott laws of the United States, including those administered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Bureau of Industry and Security, the Department of Commerce, the Department of State, and the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Treasury Department, as well as those of other nations in which we do business.

Our operations are also subject to various domestic and international privacy laws, including the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation. These laws and regulations, as well as the interpretation and application of these laws and regulations, are subject to change, and any such change may affect our ability to offer and sell existing and planned satellite communications products and services. For more information, see “Further Risks Related to Government Regulation.”

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.

Investment in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider each of the following risks, together with all other information set forth in this annual report, including the financial statements and the related notes, before making a decision to buy our common stock. If any of the following risks actually occurs, our business could be harmed. In that case, the trading price of our common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

Risks Related to the Merger with IXAQ

The Merger is subject to conditions, including certain conditions that may not be satisfied on a timely basis, if at all.

Unless waived by the parties to the Merger Agreement, and subject to applicable law, the consummation of the Merger is subject to several conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement.

The Merger Agreement provides that IXAQ’s obligation to consummate the Merger is conditioned on, among other things, that as of the closing of the Merger, the combined company resulting from the Merger (the “Combined Company”) has obtained at least $45,000,000 (“PIPE Minimum Investment Amount”) in financing from investors in the form of (i) the proceeds of private placements in IXAQ in connection with consummation of the Merger (the “PIPE Investments”) and (ii) the proceeds of the SAFE investments in Company prior to consummation of the Merger (the “SAFE Investments”).

As of the date of this filing, agreements have been signed with investors for $35 million in PIPE Investment commitments to PIPE Investments and no SAFE Investment have yet been made. There is no assurance that subscriptions for the remaining $10 million PIPE Minimum Investment Amount. The actual additional amounts committed to PIPE Investments or funded to the Company under SAFE Investments will depend on market conditions and other factors.

If the PIPE Minimum Investment Amount or other conditions to IXAQ’s obligation to consummate the Merger are not met, and such conditions are not waived by IXAQ under the terms of the Merger Agreement, then the Merger Agreement could terminate, and the proposed Merger may not be consummated.

If such condition is waived and the Merger is consummated with less than the PIPE Minimum Investment Amount, the cash held by the Combined Company upon consummation of the closing may not be sufficient to allow the Combined Company to operate and pay its bills as they become due. Any such event in the future may negatively impact the analysis regarding the Combined Company’s ability to continue as a going concern at such time.

There can be no assurance that the shares of the Combined Company’s Common Stock that will be issued in connection with the Merger will be approved for listing on Nasdaq, or another U.S national exchange, following the closing, or that the Combined Company will be able to comply with the continued listing rules of Nasdaq, or another U.S. national exchange.

In connection with the Merger and as a condition to the Company’s obligations to complete the Merger, the Combined Company will be required to demonstrate compliance with Nasdaq’s initial listing requirements. The Company and IXAQ cannot assure that the Combined Company will be able to meet those initial listing requirements or qualify to list on another national securities exchange. Even if the Combined Company’s Common Stock is approved for listing on Nasdaq, the Combined Company may not meet the Nasdaq continued listing requirements following the Merger.

The announcement of the proposed Merger could disrupt the Company’s relationships with its customers, suppliers, business partners and others, as well as its operating results and business generally.

Whether or not the Merger and related transactions are ultimately consummated, as a result of uncertainty related to the proposed transactions, risks relating to the impact of the announcement of the Merger on the Company’s business include the following:

If any of the aforementioned risks were to materialize, they could lead to significant costs which may impact the Company and, in the future, the Combined Company’s results of operations and cash available to fund its business.

We will be subject to contractual restrictions while the Merger is pending.

The Merger Agreement restricts the Company from making certain expenditures and taking other specified actions without the consent of IXAQ until the Merger occurs. These restrictions may prevent the Company from pursuing attractive business opportunities that may arise prior to the completion of the Merger.

The Company and IXAQ will incur significant transaction and transition costs in connection with the Merger.

The Company and IXAQ have both incurred and expect to incur significant, non-recurring costs in connection with consummating the Merger and following the consummation of the Merger. The Company and IXAQ may also incur additional costs to retain key employees. Costs incurred in connection with the Merger Agreement and Merger include legal, tax, accounting, consulting, investment banking and other fees, expenses, and costs, all of which have not been paid by the Company or IXAQ before the closing of the Merger will be paid by the Combined Company following the closing.

If the Merger does not meet the expectations of investors or securities analysts, the market price of IXAQ’s securities (prior to the closing), or the market price of the Combined Company’s Class A Common Stock after the closing, may decline.

If the Merger does not meet the expectations of investors, the market price of IXAQ’s securities prior to the Closing may decline. The market values of IXAQ’s securities at the time of the Merger may vary significantly from their prices on the date the Merger Agreement was executed, or the date the Company’s Stockholders vote on the Merger. Because the number of shares to be issued pursuant to the Merger Agreement will not be adjusted to reflect any changes in the market price of IXAQ’s Class A Common Stock, the market value of Class A Common Stock issued in connection with the Merger may be higher or lower than the values of these shares on earlier dates.

In addition, following the Merger, fluctuations in the price of securities of the Combined Company could contribute to the loss of all or part of your investment. The valuation ascribed to the Company in the Merger may not be indicative of the price that will prevail in the trading market following the Merger. If an active market for IXAQ’s securities develops and continues, the trading price of the securities of the Combined Company following the Merger could be volatile and subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors, some of which are beyond the Combined Company’s control. Any of the factors listed below could have a material adverse effect on the Combined Company’s securities and the Combined Company’s securities may trade at prices significantly below the price paid for them by investors in the Company or IXAQ. In such circumstances, the trading price of the Combined Company’s securities may not recover and may experience a further decline.

Broad market and industry factors may materially harm the market price of securities, irrespective of a company’s operating performance. The stock market in general, and Nasdaq in particular, have experienced price and volume fluctuations that have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of the particular companies affected. The trading prices and valuations of these stocks, and of the Combined Company’s securities, may not be predictable. A loss of investor confidence in the market for the stock of other companies that investors perceive to be similar to the Combined Company could depress the Combined Company’s stock price regardless of its business, prospects, financial conditions, or results of operations. A decline in the market price of the Combined Company’s securities also could adversely affect the Combined Company’s ability to issue additional securities and to obtain additional financing in the future.

Risks Related to Our Business

Operational Risks

We depend on manufacturing relationships and a broad set of suppliers, some of whom provide us with limited-source components and parts, and disruptions in these relationships may cause damage to our customer relationships or otherwise negatively impact our business. Although most of the components of our products are available from multiple vendors, we have several single-source supplier relationships, either because alternative sources are not available or because the relationship is advantageous to us. Further, in recent years supply chains globally have experienced stress due to a range of factors.

There can be no assurance that our suppliers will be able to meet our future requirements for products and components in a timely fashion. In addition, the availability of many of the components we need is dependent in part on our ability to provide our suppliers with accurate forecasts of our future requirements. Delays or lost revenue could be caused by other factors beyond our control, including late deliveries by vendors of components, or force majeure events.

The sale of our products and services may require a significant technical evaluation and commitment of capital and other resources by potential customers and end users, as well as delays frequently associated with end users’ internal procedures to deploy new technologies and to test and accept new technologies. For these and other reasons, the sales cycle associated with certain of our products is typically lengthy and is subject to a number of significant risks, such as end users’ internal purchasing reviews, as well as availability of capital for purchases, that are beyond our control.

While we believe we have a strong foundation to compete, it is uncertain whether our strategies will attract the customers or generate the revenue required to be successful. Certain potential customers were adversely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting global economic downturn. Any future economic slowdown could impede our ability to win and retain customers.

Risks Related to Competition

We have and expect to encounter competition from other solutions providers, some of whom may have more significant resources than us. Whether we are successful in this business model depends on a number of factors, including:

Risks Related to Acquisitions

Acquisitions could disrupt our business and seriously harm our financial condition. We will continue to consider acquisitions of businesses, products or technologies. In the event of any future acquisitions, we could issue stock that would dilute our current stockholders’ percentage ownership, incur additional debt, assume liabilities or incur large and immediate write-offs.

Our operation of any acquired business also involves numerous risks, including but not limited to:

We cannot assure that we will be able to integrate successfully any businesses, products, technologies, or personnel that we have acquired or that we might acquire in the future. Any such integration failure could disrupt our business and have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations.

Moreover, from time to time, we may enter into negotiations for a proposed acquisition, but be unable or unwilling to consummate the acquisition under consideration. This could cause significant diversion of management’s attention and out-of-pocket expenses for us. We could also be exposed to litigation as a result of any consummated or unconsummated acquisition.

Risks Related to Economic and Market Conditions

Our business and operating results are affected by the global business environment and economic conditions, including changes in interest rates, consumer credit conditions, consumer debt levels, consumer confidence, rates of inflation, unemployment rates, energy costs, geopolitical issues and other macro-economic factors. For example, high unemployment levels or energy costs may impact our customer base in our civilian telecommunications segment by reducing the mobile network operators’ end-users’ discretionary income and affecting their ability to subscribe for cell phone services.

Our consolidated operating results and financial condition may be adversely impacted by worldwide economic conditions and credit tightening. If worldwide economic conditions experience a significant downturn, these conditions may make it difficult or impossible for our customer and suppliers to accurately forecast and plan future business activities, which may cause them to slow or suspend spending on products and services.

Our customer or suppliers may find it difficult to gain sufficient credit or service existing credit in a timely manner, which could result in an impairment of their ability to process or place orders with us, deliver inventory or services to us in the case of suppliers or to make timely payments to us for previous purchases in the case of customers. If this occurs, our revenue may be reduced, thereby having a negative impact on our results of operations. In addition, we may be forced to increase our allowance for credit losses and our days sales outstanding may increase, which would have a negative impact on our cash position, liquidity and financial condition.

To the extent we incur debt, we may be unable to adhere to financial covenants or to service the debt. These risks associated with credit and debt are more pronounced for the parties with whom we do business and ourselves in the current environment which has seen interest rates rise rapidly, especially if they remain elevated for an extended period of time. We cannot predict either the timing or duration of an economic downturn in the economy, should one occur. Any downturn could have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

Our commercial aerospace segment similarly depends on the economic health and willingness of our customers and potential customers, principally commercial airlines, to make and adhere to capital and financial commitments to purchase our products and services. During periods of slowing global economic growth or recession, our customers or key suppliers may experience deterioration of their businesses, cash flow shortages and difficulty obtaining financing or insolvency. Existing or potential customers may reduce or postpone spending in response to tighter credit, reduced consumer demand, negative financial news or declines in income or asset values, which could have a material negative effect on the demand for our products and services.

For example, the business and financial condition of our commercial airline customers were materially impacted during the COVID-19 pandemic by the severe decline in global air travel. In addition, current supply chain and labor market challenges and inflationary pressures have negatively affected and may continue to negatively affect our performance as well as the performance of our suppliers and customers. Moreover, natural disasters (including those resulting from climate change), political instability, civil unrest, terrorist activity, acts of war, and public health issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic or epidemics could disrupt supplies and raise prices globally which, in turn, may have adverse effects on the world and U.S. economies. Any of these factors could result in reduced demand for, and pricing pressure on, our products and services, which could reduce our revenues and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, U.S. credit and capital markets have experienced significant dislocations and liquidity disruptions from time to time.

Uncertainty or volatility in credit or capital markets may negatively impact our ability to access additional debt or equity financing or to refinance existing indebtedness in the future on favorable terms or at all. Any of these risks could impair our ability to fund our operations or limit our ability to expand our business, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Excluding non-recurring revenues in the second quarter of 2019 and 2021 from affiliates, we have incurred operating losses in every quarter since we launched our business and may continue to incur quarterly operating losses, which could negatively affect the value of our company.

Excluding non-recurring revenues that we earned from affiliates and one non-affiliate in 2021 and in the second quarter of fiscal 2019, we have incurred operating losses since our inception in 2014, and we may not be able to generate sufficient revenue in the future to generate operating income. We also expect our costs to increase materially in future periods, which could negatively affect our future operating results. We expect to continue to expend substantial financial and other resources on the continued development and future expansion of our business. The amount and timing of these costs are subject to numerous variables and such initiatives may require additional funding.

In addition, we may incur significant costs in connection with our pursuit of next generation satellite communications technology or other new technologies such as our glass antenna. With respect to our growth, significant variables may include costs related to sales and marketing activities and administrative support functions, government defense spending, equipment subsidies to airlines and additional legal and regulatory expenses associated with operating in the international commercial aviation market. In addition, we expect to incur additional general and administrative expenses, including legal and accounting expenses, related to being a public company.

Our investments may not result in revenue or growth in our business. If we fail to grow our overall business and generate revenue, our financial condition and results of operations would be adversely affected.

Our company is in the development stage and has a limited operating history, which may make it difficult to evaluate our current business and predict our future performance.

Our company and our core business are in the development stage and we continue to face all of the risks and uncertainties associated with a new and unproven business. The limited operating history of our business may make it difficult to accurately evaluate the business and predict its future performance. Any assessments of our current business and predictions that we or you make about our future success or viability may not be as accurate as they could be if we had a longer operating history.

We have encountered and will continue to encounter risks and difficulties frequently experienced by growing companies in rapidly changing industries, and the size and nature of our market opportunity will change as we scale our business and increase deployment of our service. If we do not address any of the foregoing risks successfully, our business will be harmed.

We expect to rely on a few key customers for all of our initial revenue.

Our near term, future business will be substantially dependent on our relationship with a few key customers. There can be no assurance that we will be able to maintain our relationship with these customers. If we are unable to maintain and renew our relationship with these customers, or if our arrangement is modified so that the economic terms become less favorable to us, then our business would be materially adversely affected.

The Markets in Which We Compete Are Highly Competitive and Our Competitors May Have Greater Resources than Us

The markets in which we compete are highly competitive and competition is increasing. In addition, because the markets in which we operate are constantly evolving and characterized by rapid technological change, it is difficult for us to predict whether, when and by whom new competing technologies, products or services may be introduced into our markets. Currently, we face substantial competition in each of our segments.

Many of our competitors have significant competitive advantages, including strong customer relationships, more experience with regulatory compliance, greater financial and management resources and access to technologies not available to us. Many of our competitors are also substantially larger than we are and may have more extensive engineering, manufacturing and marketing capabilities than we do. As a result, these competitors may be able to adapt more quickly to changing technology or market conditions or may be able to devote greater resources to the development, promotion and sale of their products.

Our ability to compete in each of our segments may also be adversely affected by limits on our capital resources and our ability to invest in maintaining and expanding our market share.

Our Anticipated Reliance on U.S. Government and Foreign Governments Contracts and Approvals Exposes Us to Significant Risks

We expect our defense segment is to represent a significant percentage of our total revenues in the future and is likely to consist of both U.S. Government and Foreign Government, in particular, Taiwanese government applications. Therefore, any significant disruption or deterioration of our relationship with the U.S. Government or with relevant Foreign Governments would significantly reduce our revenues. U.S. Government and Foreign Government business exposes us to various risks, including:

We must comply with and are affected by laws and regulations relating to the award, administration and performance of U.S. Government, and Foreign Government, contracts. Government contract laws and regulations affect how we do business with our customers and, in some instances, impose added costs on our business, including the establishment of compliance procedures. A violation of specific laws and regulations could result in the imposition of fines and penalties, the termination of our contracts or debarment from bidding on contracts. Substantially all of our potential U.S. Government or Foreign Government backlog scheduled for delivery could be terminated at the convenience of the U.S. Government, or a Foreign Government, because our potential contracts with the U.S. Government, or a Foreign Government, typically would be anticipated to provide that orders may be terminated with limited or no penalties. If we are unable to address any of the risks described above, or if we were to lose all or a substantial portion of our sales to the U.S. Government, or to a Foreign Government, it could materially harm our business and impair the value of our common stock.

The funding of U.S. Government, or Foreign Government, programs is subject to congressional appropriations, or such similar mechanism in each country. In the U.S., Congress generally appropriates funds on a fiscal year basis even though a program may extend over several fiscal years. Foreign Governments may appropriate funds with a materially similar or materially different approach. Consequently, programs are often only partially funded initially and additional funds are committed only as Congress, or the relevant Foreign Government body, makes further appropriations.

We may not be successful in our efforts to develop and monetize new products and services that are currently in development, including value-added resale of satellite bandwidth in certain geographies where we are already licensed or intend to be licensed, our multi-orbit universal satellite communications terminals that incorporate flat panel antennas (FPAs) or electronically steered arrays (ESAs) with both hardware and software defined modems, communications systems for manned and unmanned aerospace and defense platforms, system integration for manned and unmanned aerospace and defense platforms, our proprietary, full-dominance glass semiconductor antenna (also referred to as “FGSA”), distributed content delivery network (“CDN”), distributed computing or mesh computing applications and inflight entertainment and connectivity services;

In order to meet the evolving needs of our future customers and partners, we must continue to develop new products and services that are responsive to those needs. Our ability to realize the benefits of enabling our products, and to use these applications, including monetizing our services at a profitable price point, depends, in part, on the adoption and utilization of such applications by different potential customers including militaries, governments, defense contractors, airlines, other aircraft operators and other companies in the aviation industry such as aircraft equipment suppliers, mobile network operators, other telecommunications service operators and other companies in the telecommunications industry such as communications equipment suppliers, and we cannot be certain that our potential customers, outlined above will adopt such offerings in the near term or at all.

We also expect to continue to rely on third parties to operate and maintain the satellites and satellite constellations to be used to provide bandwidth to our potential customers, and we cannot be certain that such satellites or satellite constellations will be capable to meet the service level requirements, quality of service expectations or service reliability metrics necessary to meet the needs our potential customers. If we are not successful in our efforts to develop and monetize new products and services, including our operations-oriented communications services, our future business prospects, financial condition and results of operations would be materially adversely affected.

Our development and implementation of our semiconductor glass antenna, while poised to offer significant advantages in terms of performance and cost-effectiveness, introduces additional layers of risk. This technology involves highly specialized and novel manufacturing processes that may encounter operational hurdles, higher than anticipated production costs, or delays in scaling production to meet market demands. Additionally, our semiconductor glass antenna’s reliance on proprietary technology and materials might limit rapid adaptation in the face of changing industry standards or emerging competitive technologies. Given the rapid evolution of technology in the aerospace and telecommunications sectors, there is a risk that our newly developed technology may become obsolete more quickly than expected, or fail to gain sufficient market acceptance, thereby negatively impacting our competitive position and financial performance.

Our semiconductor glass antenna technology is not yet commercialized and has not been widely applied or developed for the markets being targeted by our company.

As an emerging technology, our semiconductor glass antenna has not undergone extensive field testing across different market applications, which is crucial for establishing its viability and reliability in real-world scenarios. The unproven nature of our semiconductor glass antenna in operational environments, particularly in space and satellite communications—a sector marked by exceptionally high requirements for accuracy and durability—presents a substantial risk.

Without established performance data and market acceptance, the potential for our semiconductor glass antenna to meet the specific needs of satellite operators and other telecommunications stakeholders remains uncertain. This untested status could delay adoption and affect our ability to attract partnerships and customers necessary for successful market entry and scaling.

We cannot accurately predict future revenues or profitability in the emerging market for our semiconductor glass antenna technology.

The market for advanced satellite communication technologies is rapidly evolving. As is typical of a rapidly evolving industry, demand and market acceptance for newly developing technologies like our semiconductor glass antenna are subject to a high level of uncertainty. Moreover, since the market for satellite antenna technology is evolving, it is difficult to predict the future growth rate, if any, and size of this market.

Because of our limited development history with our semiconductor glass antenna and the emerging nature of the markets in which we expect to compete, we are unable to accurately forecast any revenues or our profitability that we might generate through the marketing of our semiconductor glass antenna technology. The market for our semiconductor glass antenna products and the long-term acceptance of our technology are uncertain, and our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel with industry expertise, particularly in engineering, sales, and marketing, is uncertain.

To the extent we are unsuccessful in generating revenues from FGSA, we may be required to appropriately adjust spending to compensate for any unexpected revenue shortfall, or to reduce our operating expenses, causing us to forego potential revenue-generating activities.

We may face challenges in the development and monetization of new products and services, specifically related to our universal terminals.

In order to meet the ever-changing needs of our target customers, we must continuously innovate and introduce new offerings that cater to their requirements. However, the successful adoption and utilization of these products depend on the interest and acceptance of our target customers. There is no guarantee that they will embrace our offerings in the near future or at all.

Additionally, as we strive to provide comprehensive and efficient multi-orbit broadband connectivity, we may need to collaborate with third-party developers or technology providers to enhance our product and service offerings and ensure compatibility with our potential partners’ satellites and ground infrastructure. However, uncertainties exist regarding the seamless integration and effectiveness of these technical collaborations in meeting the unique needs of our potential customers.

Should we encounter obstacles in effectively developing and monetizing new products and services, specifically pertaining to our universal terminals, it could significantly impact our business prospects, financial performance, and overall success in the market.

We may not be able to grow our business with our current and potential satellite and satellite constellation partners or to successfully negotiate agreements with satellite and satellite constellation partners whose bandwidth and services we do not currently resell or otherwise distribute;

Currently, our primary existing or potential satellite partners include SES (including SES Space & Defense), Viasat Inc., Intelsat SA, Eutelsat Group (including Eutelsat Communications, Eutelsat SA and Eutelsat OneWeb), Rivada Space Networks, Astranis Space Technologies Corp. and Telesat Corp., but we aim to have the technical capability to provide links to any and all satellites and constellations, subject to future potential commercial agreements. We are currently in, or planning, discussions or negotiations with certain of our existing or potential satellite partners to serve as a value-added reseller of their services in certain countries and regions, but do not yet have in place any such value-added reseller agreements.

We have acquired terminal equipment and satellite connectively and related services from SES and also have participated in demonstration and testing with SES under a confidential agreement with our development customer since 2022

Negotiations with prospective satellite partners require substantial time, effort and resources. The time required to reach a final agreement with a satellite operator is unpredictable and may lead to variances in our operating results from quarter to quarter. We may ultimately fail in our negotiations and any such failure could harm our results of operations due to, among other things, a diversion of our focus and resources, actual costs and opportunity costs of pursuing these opportunities. To the extent that any negotiations with current or future potential satellite partners are unsuccessful, or any new agreements contain terms that are less favorable to us, our growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

We may not be able to grow our business with our current and potential aerospace and defense partners or to successfully negotiate agreements with aerospace and defense partners to which we do not currently provide our technologies or services;

Our primary potential aerospace & defense partners include prime contractors like Kratos Defense, Lockheed Martin, Anduril, Shield.AI, Boeing Defense, Airbus Defense, Northrop Grumman, General Atomics and RTX, although we do not yet have in place binding agreements to serve as a joint venture partner, mentor-protégé partner, subcontractor, vendor, or system integrator with these prime contractors. We are currently in discussions with certain of our potential aerospace & defense partners to enter into binding contracts together. Currently, we also have a number of potential aerospace & defense customers, including militaries and governments, regarding providing our products and services to meet their classified programs and missions.

.Negotiations with prospective aerospace & defense partners and potential customers require substantial time, effort and resources. The time required to reach a final agreement with an aerospace & defense prime contractor or a military customer is unpredictable and may lead to variances in our operating results from quarter to quarter. We may ultimately fail in our negotiations and any such failure could harm our results of operations due to, among other things, a diversion of our focus and resources, actual costs and opportunity costs of pursuing these opportunities. To the extent that any negotiations with current or future potential aerospace & defense partners or customers are unsuccessful, or any new agreements contain terms that are less favorable to us, our growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

We may not be able to grow our business with our current airline partners or successfully negotiate agreements with airlines and other partners or grow our additional businesses.

Currently, our only airline partners are MJet GmbH, an Austrian-based private jet operator, MJet, Hong Kong Airlines Limited, a Hong Kong-based airline, or Hong Kong Airlines, and Vietjet Aviation Joint Stock Company, a Vietnam-based airline, or Vietjet, although we have not yet begun to provide our universal terminals for aviation with associated bandwidth services or our distributed content system for airlines to these companies under our agreement with them. We are currently in advanced negotiations or discussions with certain other airline partners to provide our products and services on additional aircraft in their fleets. We have no assurance that these efforts will be successful.

Negotiations with prospective airline partners require substantial time, effort and resources. The time required to reach a final agreement with an airline is unpredictable and may lead to variances in our operating results from quarter to quarter. We may ultimately fail in our negotiations and any such failure could harm our results of operations due to, among other things, a diversion of our focus and resources, actual costs and opportunity costs of pursuing these opportunities. In addition, the terms of any future agreements could be materially different than the terms included in our existing agreement with Hong Kong Airlines. To the extent that any negotiations with current or future potential airline partners are unsuccessful, or any new agreements contain terms that are less favorable to us, our growth prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

We may not be able to successfully negotiate agreements with potential civilian telecommunications partners for our backhaul solutions or grow this additional business.

The varying awareness and sense of urgency regarding network resilience in different countries will directly impact the growth of our mobile backhaul business. Network resilience is the ability of a network to withstand and recover from unexpected disruptions, ensuring uninterrupted service and minimizing downtime. However, the importance placed on network resilience can differ across countries due to varying factors such as geographical location, infrastructure stability, and previous experiences with network failures.

In countries where there is a high level of awareness and a sense of urgency regarding network resilience, there is a greater demand for robust mobile backhaul solutions. Customers in these regions prioritize the reliability and resilience of their networks, driving the adoption of mobile backhaul technologies that offer built-in redundancy, failover mechanisms, and efficient disaster recovery capabilities.

Conversely, in regions where network resilience is not a primary concern or where there is limited awareness, the demand for advanced satellite mobile backhaul solutions may be relatively lower.

We are dependent on airline partners to be able to access our customers. We expect that future payments by these customers for our services to be provided to them will account for most, if not all, of our initial revenues.

Under our existing contract with MJet, Hong Kong Airlines and Vietjet, we will provide our equipment for installation on, and provide our services to passengers on, a portion of the aircraft operated by these airlines. We expect to enter into similar contracts with other airlines in the future but there is no assurance that we will be successful in signing up additional airline partners.

We expect that revenue from the successful installation of our Aerkomm AirCinema cube on Hong Kong Airlines and Vietjet sometime in 2025 as well as the successful installation of our Aerkomm K++ System on MJet and Hong Kong Airlines in the fourth quarter of 2025 and first quarter of 2026 respectively, together with the monthly bandwidth charge, will account for a material portion of our projected initial revenue from commercial aviation once we begin our services.

As of the date of this report, we do not yet have any revenue from equipment sales and installation. Our growth will be dependent on our ability to have our equipment installed on the aircraft of airline partners and increased use of our service on installed aircraft. Any delays in installations under these contracts may negatively affect our ability to grow our user base and revenue.

We will be dependent on backhaul partners to be able to access our future customers. We expect that future payments by these customers for our services to be provided to them will account for a percentage of our revenues.

As of the date of this report, we do not yet have any revenue from equipment sales and installation of our mobile backhaul business. Our growth will be dependent on our ability to have our equipment installed on 4G/5G mobile base stations. Any delays in installations negatively may affect our ability to grow our user base and revenue.

A failure to maintain customers’ satisfaction with our equipment or our service could have a material adverse effect on our revenue and results of operations.

Our relationships with our current and future development and commercialization partners are critical to the growth and ongoing success of our business. If partners are not satisfied with our equipment or our service for any reason, they may reduce efforts to co-market our service to their customers, which could result in lower usage and reduced revenue, which could in turn give our partners the right to terminate their contracts with us.

In addition, airline dissatisfaction with us for any reason, including delays in obtaining certification for or installing our equipment, could negatively affect our ability to expand our service to additional commercialization partners or lead to claims for damages, which may be material, or termination rights under our existing or potential contracts with airline partners.

A failure to maintain backhaul customers satisfaction with our equipment or our service could have a material adverse effect on our revenue and results of operations.

If our mobile backhaul solution fails to effectively ensure network resilience, customers may turn to competitors’ offerings. This would have a direct impact on our revenue and operations.

Network resilience is a critical requirement for customers seeking mobile backhaul solutions. Backhaul customers will rely on our services to maintain a robust and reliable network infrastructure that will be able to withstand disruptions and ensure uninterrupted connectivity. If our solution does not meet their expectations in terms of network resilience, customers may perceive it as a risk to their operations and seek alternative options.

We may experience network capacity constraints in our future operations regions and we expect capacity demands to increase, and we may in the future experience capacity constraints internationally. If we are unable to successfully implement planned or future technology enhancements to increase our network capacity, or our airline partners do not agree to such enhancements, our ability to acquire and maintain sufficient network capacity and our business could be materially and adversely affected.

All providers of wireless connectivity services, including all providers of in-flight connectivity services, face certain limits on their ability to provide connectivity service, including escalating capacity constraints due to expanding consumption of wireless services and the increasing prevalence of higher bandwidth uses such as file downloads and streaming media content. The success of our business depends on our ability to provide adequate bandwidth to meet customer demands while in-flight. We may find it difficult to provide this adequate bandwidth.

As the number of base stations increases with the implementation of 4G/5G mobile backhaul, it indicates a growing user base. However, when the network capacity reaches its initial design threshold, if we fail to timely develop new technologies to increase capacity and meet customer demands, such a failure will negatively impact our business.

If we are unable to develop and introduce new technologies that can expand our network’s capacity, customers may experience congestion, slow data speeds, and poor service quality. This can lead to customer dissatisfaction, churn, and a negative impact on our business.

We face the risk of network capacity constraints in our future CDN business as the demand for high-speed content delivery continues to grow. If we are unable to effectively scale our network infrastructure to meet increasing capacity demands, this failure may result in degraded performance, slower content delivery, and potential customer dissatisfaction. To mitigate this risk, we need to continuously invest in expanding our network capacity and implementing advanced technologies to ensure optimal performance and scalability. Failure to do so may adversely impact our competitiveness and market position.

The demand for satellite bandwidth may decrease or develop more slowly than we expect. We cannot predict with certainty the development of the international satellite bandwidth market in general or the general market acceptance for our products and services

We have invested significant resources towards the roll-out of value-added resale of satellite bandwidth services, which represent part of our growth strategy. We face the risk that the U.S. and international markets for satellite bandwidth services may decrease or develop more slowly or differently than we currently expect, or that our services may not achieve widespread market acceptance. We may be unable to market and sell our services successfully and cost-effectively to a sufficiently large number of customers.

Our business depends on the continued proliferation of satellite-based broadband connectivity as a critical business or program need for our potential customers. The growth in demand for satellite broadband internet access services also depends in part on the continued and increased use of manned and unmanned airborne, maritime and land-based vehicles and platforms and the rate of evolution of data-intensive applications on such platforms and vehicles.

If satellite bandwidth ceases to be a critical feature in manned and unmanned platforms, if the rate of integration of satellite bandwidth on manned and unmanned platforms decreases or is slower than expected, or if the use of satellite bandwidth enabled devices or development of related applications decreases or grows more slowly than anticipated, the market for our services may be substantially diminished.

Competition from a number of companies, as well as other market forces, could result in price reduction, reduced revenue and loss of market share and could harm our results of operations.

We face strong competition from satellite-based providers of broadband services that include in-flight internet and live television services. Competition from such providers has in the past and could have in the future, an adverse effect on our ability to maintain or gain market share.

Most of our competitors are larger, more diversified corporations that have greater financial, marketing, production, and research and development resources. As a result, they may be better able to withstand the effects of periodic economic downturns or may offer a broader product line to customers. In addition, to the extent that competing in-flight connectivity services offered by commercial airlines that are not our airline partners are available on more aircraft or offer improved quality or reliability as compared to our service, our business and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Competition could increase our sales and marketing expenses and related customer acquisition costs. We may not have the financial resources, technical expertise or marketing and support capabilities to continue to compete successfully. A failure to effectively respond to established and new competitors could have a material adverse impact on our business and results of operations.

Competition from various companies in the content delivery and edge computing industry, as well as market dynamics, may lead to price pressures, reduced revenue, and potential loss of market share, which could adversely affect our business operations.

We operate in a highly competitive landscape where other providers of content delivery solutions and edge computing services offer products and services similar to those we intend to introduce. These competitors may have greater financial resources, established customer bases, and extensive marketing and research and development capabilities. Increased competition could result in price reductions, which may impact our profitability and revenue generation. Additionally, if competing solutions offer enhanced features, performance, or reliability compared to our planned CDN service, this could negatively impact our market position and customer adoption.

To maintain a competitive edge, we must continuously invest in innovation, technology advancements, and marketing efforts to differentiate ourselves from competitors. Failure to effectively address competitive pressures, anticipate market trends, and adapt to evolving customer needs may limit our growth potential and financial performance.

The price of satellite bandwidth may decrease or develop more slowly than we expect.

Due to the recent and anticipated proliferation of satellites and constellations into LEO, MEO, GEO and HEO orbits by our potential partners and potential competitors, as noted above, there is an increased supply of satellite bandwidth. As a result, in the event that a large quantity of satellite bandwidth is sold on the market without commensurate demand, we face the inherent risk that the price of satellite bandwidth may decrease or develop more slowly than we expect, or than our potential partners expect.

As we aim to be a distribution partner, or value-added reseller, of satellite bandwidth, in the event that the price of satellite bandwidth decreases or develops more slowly than we expect, the potential revenue we may be able to generate in the future may decrease, which could have a material adverse effect on our growth prospects.

We may be unsuccessful in generating revenue from entertainment services.

We are currently developing a host of in-flight entertainment and connectivity service offerings to deliver to our future customers. We plan to offer a number of services to our customers and no assurance can be given that we will ultimately be able to launch any service. Additionally, we plan to generate a revenue stream from our video on demand and other in-flight entertainment services. If we are unable to generate revenue from our services or if other entertainment services do not ultimately develop, our growth and financial prospects would be materially adversely impacted. 

The future growth prospects for our business depend, in part, on revenue from sale of equipment and bandwidth, advertising fees and e-commerce revenue share arrangements on passenger purchases of goods and services, including video and media services. Our ability to generate revenue from these service offerings depends on:

If we are unsuccessful in generating revenue from our service offerings, that failure could have a material adverse effect on our growth prospects.

We may be unsuccessful in expanding our operations internationally.

Our ability to grow our international business involves various risks, including the need to invest significant resources in unfamiliar markets and the possibility that we may not realize a return on our investments in the near future or at all. In addition, we have incurred and expect to continue to incur significant expenses before we generate any material revenue in these new markets.

Under our agreements with providers of satellite capacity, we are obligated to purchase bandwidth for specified periods in advance. If we are unable to generate sufficient passenger demand or airline partners to which we provide satellite service to their aircraft terminate their agreements with us for any reason during these periods, we may be forced to incur satellite costs in excess of connectivity revenue generated through such satellites.

Any future international operations may fail to succeed due to risks inherent in foreign operations, including:

As a result of these obstacles, we may find it difficult or prohibitively expensive to grow our business internationally or we may be unsuccessful in our attempt to do so, which could harm our future operating results and financial condition.

Acquisitions such as the Mesh Tech Transaction, Joint Ventures and Other Strategic Alliances May Have an Adverse Effect on Our Business; We May Fail to Realize the Anticipated Benefits of such Transactions.

In order to position ourselves to take advantage of growth opportunities, from time to time we make strategic acquisitions and enter into joint ventures and other strategic alliances that involve significant risks and uncertainties. For example, during 2023 we announced and closed on the Mesh Tech Transaction and announced an intent for a merger with EJECTT. Risks and uncertainties relating to these transactions and any other acquisitions, joint ventures and other strategic alliances we may undertake include:

We may not achieve the anticipated growth, cost savings or other benefits from the Mesh Tech Transaction or any other transaction we may undertake without adversely affecting current revenues and investments in future growth. Moreover, the anticipated growth, cost savings, synergies and other benefits of the Mesh Tech Transaction or any other transaction we may undertake may not be realized fully, or at all, or may take longer to realize than expected.

Additionally, we may inherit legal, regulatory, operational and other risks of the acquired business, whether known or unknown to us, which may be material to the combined company. Moreover, uncertainty about the effect of the recently closed transaction such as the Mesh Tech Transaction on employees, suppliers and customers may have an adverse effect on us and/or the acquired business, which uncertainties may impair our or its ability to attract, retain and motivate key personnel, and could cause our or its customers, suppliers and distributors to seek to change existing business relationships with either of us.

In addition, in connection with acquisitions, joint ventures or strategic alliances, we may incur debt, issue equity securities, assume contingent liabilities or have amortization expenses and write-downs of acquired assets, which could cause our earnings per share to decline. In addition, companies such as Mesh Tech that are private companies at the time of acquisition are not subject to reporting requirements and may not have accounting personnel specifically employed to review internal controls over financial reporting and other procedures or to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Bringing the legacy systems for these businesses into compliance with those requirements and integrating them into our compliance and accounting systems may cause us to incur substantial additional expense, make some activities more difficult, time-consuming or costly and increase demand on our systems and resources.

Mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic alliances are inherently risky and subject to many factors outside of our control, and we cannot be certain that our previous or future acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic alliances will be successful and will not materially adversely affect our business, operating results or financial condition. We may not be able to successfully integrate the businesses, products, technologies or personnel that we might acquire in the future, and any strategic investments we make may not meet our financial or other investment objectives. Any failure to do so could seriously harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

An extended delay in the transfer of title to Aerkomm Taiwan of the Taiwan land parcel that we recently purchased could delay the building of our first satellite ground station and have a negative impact on our business prospects.

In July 2019, we completed payment of the NT$1,098,549,407, or US$35,861,589, purchase price for our acquisition of approximately 6.3 acres of undeveloped land (which we refer to as the Taiwan land parcel) located at the Taishui Grottoes in the Xinyi District of Keelung City, Taiwan.

Our agent has received all of the necessary title transfer documentation from the seller however, according to the land use law of Taiwan, our Taiwan based subsidiary, Aerkomm Taiwan, needed to first, obtain a telecommunications license in Taiwan, which it has obtained, then second, submit a usage plan to the local land office and to obtain the necessary operational/development license or authorization for the intended usage before Aerkomm Taiwan can obtain an official certificate of title. Aerkomm Taiwan is currently preparing the plan of usage and has worked with various regulatory authorities to obtain the necessary license and approval to meet the local land use law requirements.

We do not know at this time how long it will take to complete this process and receive the certificate of title to the parcel. Although we expected to complete the entire process and receive or certificate of title by sometime in 2024, the transaction was not completed. Once title to the Taiwan land parcel is transferred to Aerkomm Taiwan, we expect we may lease a portion of the land parcel, pursuant to the terms of an existing binding memorandum of understanding, to a Samoa based telecom company who intends to use the land for their own satellite ground station and to mortgage the land to be able to raise funds to build our first satellite ground station and data center.

If there is an extended delay in the transfer of the Taiwan land parcel title to Aerkomm Taiwan, our agreement with the Samoa telecom company may be terminated and we may not be able to raise the funds needed to build our ground station in a timely fashion. Either or both of these eventualities could have a negative impact on our business plans, prospects and future results of operations.

From time to time, we enter into memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with various third parties. If the transactions contemplated by these MOUs do not proceed, our results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

From time to time, we enter into MOUs with potential prospective collaborative partners or potential customers. These MOUs typically are nonbinding and as a result, they only express the desires and understandings between the parties and do not create any legally binding rights, obligations or contracts except for certain customary provisions such as exclusivity, costs and expenses, confidentiality and governing law.

Any binding obligation to proceed with the transactions contemplated by the MOUs would need to be included in a definitive agreement that is subject to negotiations of the parties, approvals by the board of directors of respective parties and in certain instances, approvals from regulatory authorities. There can be no assurance that we will be able to reach definitive agreements with any parties who may sign MOUs with us. If for whatever reason the transactions contemplated by signed MOUs do not proceed, our results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

A future act or threat of terrorism or other events could result in a prohibition on the use of Wi-Fi enabled connectivity devices.

A future act of terrorism, the threat of such acts or other airline incidents could have an adverse effect on the airline industry. In the event of a terrorist attack, terrorist threats or unrelated airline accidents, the industry would likely experience significantly reduced passenger demand.

The U.S. federal government or any other government could respond to such events by prohibiting the use of Wi-Fi enabled devices on aircraft, which would eliminate demand for our equipment and service. In addition, any association or perceived association between our equipment or service and incidents involving aircraft on which our equipment or service operates would likely have an adverse effect on demand for our equipment and service. Reduced demand for our products and services would adversely affect our business prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

The demand for in-flight broadband internet access service may decrease or develop more slowly than we expect. We cannot predict with certainty the development of the U.S. or international in-flight broadband internet access market or the market acceptance for our products and services.

We have invested significant resources towards the roll-out of commercial aviation service offerings, which represent part of our growth strategy. We face the risk that the U.S. and international markets for in-flight broadband internet access services may decrease or develop more slowly or differently than we currently expect, or that our services, including our offerings, may not achieve widespread market acceptance. We may be unable to market and sell our services successfully and cost-effectively to a sufficiently large number of customers.

Our business depends on the continued proliferation of Wi-Fi as a standard feature in mobile devices. The growth in demand for in-flight broadband internet access services also depends in part on the continued and increased use of laptops, smartphones, tablet computers, and other Wi-Fi enabled devices and the rate of evolution of data-intensive applications on the mobile internet. If Wi-Fi ceases to be a standard feature in mobile devices, if the rate of integration of Wi-Fi on mobile devices decreases or is slower than expected, or if the use of Wi-Fi enabled devices or development of related applications decreases or grows more slowly than anticipated, the market for our services may be substantially diminished.

Increased costs and other demands associated with our growth could impact our ability to achieve profitability over the long term and could strain our personnel, technology and infrastructure resources.

We expect our costs to increase in future periods, which could negatively affect our future operating results. We expect to experience growth in our headcount and operations, which will place significant demands on our management, administrative, technological, operational and financial infrastructure. Anticipated future growth will require the outlay of significant operating and capital expenditures and will continue to place strains on our personnel, technology and infrastructure.

Our success will depend in part upon our ability to contain costs with respect to growth opportunities. To successfully manage the expected growth of our operations, on a timely and cost-effective basis we will need to continue to improve our operational, financial, technological and management controls and our reporting systems and procedures. In addition, as we continue to grow, we must effectively integrate, develop and motivate new employees, and we must maintain the beneficial aspects of our corporate culture. If we fail to successfully manage our growth, it could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Regulation by United States and foreign government agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration and the Federal Communications Commission, may increase our costs of providing service or require us to change our services.

The commercial and private aviation industries, including civil aviation manufacturing and repair industries, are highly regulated in the United States by the FAA, in Europe by EASA as well as other compatible civil aviation authorities. FAA and/or EASA certification is required for all equipment we install on commercial aircraft and type certificated business aircraft, and certain of our operating activities require that we obtain FAA/EASA certification as a parts manufacturer. As discussed in more detail in the section entitled “Business—Regulation—Federal Aviation Administration,” FAA and/or EASA approvals required to operate our business include Supplemental Type Certificates, or STCs and Parts Manufacturing Authorities, or PMAs and Service Bulletins, or SBs. Obtaining SBs, STCs and PMAs is an expensive and time-consuming process that requires significant focus and resources. Any inability to obtain, delay in obtaining, or change in, needed FAA/EASA certifications, authorizations, or approvals, could have an adverse effect on our ability to meet our installation commitments, manufacture and sell parts for installation on aircraft, or expand our business and could, therefore, materially adversely affect our growth prospects, business and operating results.

The FAA/EASA closely regulates many of our operations. If we fail to comply with the FAA’s and/or EASA’s many regulations and standards that apply to our activities, we could lose the FAA/EASA certifications, authorizations, or other approvals on which our manufacturing, installation, maintenance, preventive maintenance, and alteration capabilities are based. In addition, from time to time, the FAA/EASA or comparable foreign authorities adopt new regulations or amend existing regulations. The FAA/EASA could also change its policies regarding the delegation of inspection and certification responsibilities to private companies, which could adversely affect our business. To the extent that any such new regulations or amendments to existing regulations or policies apply to our activities, those new regulations or amendments to existing regulations generally increase our costs of compliance.

As a broadband Internet provider, we must comply with the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act of 1994, or CALEA, which requires communications carriers to ensure that their equipment, facilities and services can accommodate certain technical capabilities in executing authorized wiretapping and other electronic surveillance. Currently, our CALEA solution is being deployed in our network. However, we could be subject to an enforcement action by the FCC or law enforcement agencies for any delays related to meeting, or if we fail to comply with, any current or future CALEA, or similarly mandated law enforcement related, obligations. Such enforcement actions could subject us to fines, cease and desist orders, or other penalties, all of which could adversely affect our business. Further, to the extent the FCC adopts additional capability requirements applicable to broadband Internet providers, its decision may increase the costs we incur to comply with such regulations.

In addition to these U.S. agencies, we are also subject to regulation by foreign government agencies that choose to assert jurisdiction over us as a result of the service we provide on aircraft that fly international routes. Adverse decisions or regulations of these U.S. and foreign regulatory bodies could negatively impact our operations and costs of doing business and could delay the roll-out of our services and have other adverse consequences for us. Our ability to obtain certain regulatory approvals to offer our services internationally may also be the responsibility of a third party, and, therefore, may be out of our control. We are unable to predict the scope, pace or financial impact of regulations and other policy changes that could be adopted by the various governmental entities that oversee portions of our business.

The certification time for 4G/5G mobile backhaul by regulatory authorities varies among different countries. Each country has its own standards and procedures for assessing and certifying the compliance and safety of satellite communication products. Therefore, the time required for products to obtain certification may vary depending on the country. Some countries may have faster certification processes that can be completed in a shorter period of time. In other countries, the certification process may be relatively longer, requiring more time for review and testing. Therefore, when selling satellite communication systems for 4G/5G mobile backhaul in the global market, it is necessary to consider the differences in certification time among different countries which may increase our costs of providing service. We are unable to predict the scope, pace or financial impact of regulations and other policy changes that could be adopted by the various governmental entities that oversee portions of our business.

We are subject to various regulations, including those regulations promulgated by various federal, state and local regulatory agencies and legislative bodies and comparable agencies outside the United States where we may do business. The two U.S. government agencies that have primary regulatory authority over our operations are the Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, and the Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, the European Administration and Safety Agency, or EASA and other compatible civil aviation authorities.

Regulation by government agencies, such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and other relevant regulatory bodies, may impact our satellite internet service and our CDN business for households, resulting in increased costs and the need to modify our services.

As a future provider of satellite internet service and CDN solutions for households, we will be subject to various regulations imposed by government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels. The FCC will play a significant role in regulating our future broadband internet services and ensuring compliance with applicable rules and requirements.

Compliance with FCC regulations, including licensing, spectrum usage, and service quality standards, is crucial to our operations. Failure to comply with FCC rules and guidelines may lead to penalties, fines, or restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to provide reliable and high-speed internet connectivity to households.

Furthermore, other regulatory bodies may have jurisdiction over aspects of our planned satellite internet service and our CDN business, such as data privacy and consumer protection. Compliance with these regulations, including privacy laws and fair business practices, is essential to maintaining customer trust and avoiding legal and reputational risks.

We face the risk of potential cybersecurity breaches and data privacy concerns that could harm our reputation, disrupt our services, and result in legal and financial liabilities.

As a potential future provider of CDN services for households, we will handle a significant amount of data, including user information, content delivery, and advertising data. The increasing prevalence of cyber threats and data breaches poses a substantial risk to our business operations and customer trust.

Despite implementing robust security measures, such as encryption protocols and firewalls, there is no guarantee that our systems will be immune to unauthorized access or malicious attacks. Cybercriminals could exploit vulnerabilities in our network infrastructure, software, or third-party services, leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, service disruptions, or theft of sensitive information.

A cybersecurity breach or unauthorized disclosure of customer data could result in significant reputational damage, loss of customer trust, and legal and financial liabilities. We may be subject to legal and regulatory obligations to notify affected individuals and authorities, provide remedies, and face potential lawsuits and fines. The costs associated with investigating and mitigating the effects of a breach, as well as potential legal settlements and regulatory penalties, could have a material adverse impact on our business and financial position.

Furthermore, data privacy concerns and evolving privacy regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union, require us to implement stringent data protection measures and obtain appropriate consents from users. Failure to comply with these regulations, or any changes in privacy laws or regulations, could result in legal consequences, reputational harm, and disruptions to our operations.

To address these risks, we invest in cybersecurity technologies, conduct regular security assessments, and train our employees on best practices. However, the evolving nature of cyber threats and the sophistication of attackers require ongoing vigilance and investment in cybersecurity measures.

It is essential for us to maintain the trust of our customers by safeguarding their data and addressing potential cybersecurity threats effectively. Failure to adequately protect against cyber threats and address data privacy concerns could adversely affect our reputation, customer relationships, and financial performance.

We may not be in compliance with all government regulations, which could harm our results of operations.

The current legal environment for Internet communications, products and services is uncertain and subject to statutory, regulatory or interpretive change. We cannot be certain that we, our vendors or our customers are currently in compliance with applicable regulatory or other legal requirements in the countries in which our service is used.

Our failure, or the failure of our vendors, customers and others with whom we transact business to comply with existing or future legal or regulatory requirements could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Regulators may disagree with our interpretations of existing laws or regulations or the applicability of existing laws or regulations to our business, and existing laws, regulations and interpretations may change in unexpected ways.

If government regulation of the Internet changes, we may need to change the way we conduct our business to a manner that incurs greater operating expenses, which could harm our results of operations.

The current legal environment for Internet communications, products and services is uncertain and subject to statutory, regulatory or interpretive change.  For example, our mobile wireless broadband Internet access services were previously classified as information services, and not as telecommunications services. Therefore, these services were not subject to FCC common carrier regulation. However, effective June 12, 2015, the FCC reclassified mobile (and fixed) broadband Internet access services as Title II telecommunications services pursuant to the Open Internet Order. The Open Internet Order also adopted broad net neutrality rules.

For example, broadband providers may not block access to lawful content, applications, services, or non-harmful devices. Broadband providers also may not impair or degrade lawful Internet traffic on the basis of content, applications, services, or non-harmful devices. In addition, broadband providers may not favor some lawful Internet traffic over other lawful traffic in exchange for consideration of any kind, and they may not prioritize the content and services of their affiliates. Other than for paid prioritization, the rules contain an exception for “reasonable network management.” The Open Internet Order recognizes that whether a network management practice is reasonable varies according to the broadband technology involved and may provide more flexibility to implement network management practices in the context of our capacity-constrained air-to-ground and satellite broadband networks.

Other jurisdictions may adopt similar or different regulations that could affect our ability to use “network management” techniques. Likewise, the United States and the European Union, among other jurisdictions, are considering proposals regarding data protection that, if adopted, could impose heightened restrictions on certain of our activities relating to the collection and use of data of end users. Further, as we promote exclusive content and services and increase targeted advertising with our media partners to customers of our services, we may attract increased regulatory scrutiny.

We cannot be certain what positions regulators may take regarding our compliance with, or lack of compliance with, current and future legal and regulatory requirements or what positions regulators may take regarding any past or future actions we have taken or may take in any jurisdiction. Regulators may determine that we are not in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and impose penalties, or we may need to make changes to our services, which could be costly and difficult. Any of these events would adversely affect our operating results and business.

Further Risks Related to Government Regulation.

Our international operations complicate our business and require us to comply with multiple regulatory environments. Historically, sales to customers outside the United States have accounted for all of our net sales. Risks associated with our international business activities may increase our costs and require significant management attention. These risks include restrictions on international travel, which may restrict our ability to grow and service our business; international shipping delays; tariffs; sanctions or other trade restrictions that preclude or restrict doing business with particular foreign governments, companies or individuals; technical challenges we may face in adapting our solutions to function with different satellite services and technology in use in various regions around the world; satisfaction of international regulatory requirements and delays and costs associated with procurement of any necessary licenses or permits; the potential unavailability of content licenses covering international waters and foreign locations; increased costs of providing customer support in multiple languages; increased costs of managing operations that are international in scope; potentially adverse tax consequences, including restrictions on the repatriation of earnings; protectionist laws and business practices that favor local competitors, which could slow our growth in international markets; potentially longer sales cycles; potentially longer accounts receivable payment cycles and difficulties in collecting accounts receivable; and economic and political instability in some international markets. We could incur additional legal compliance costs associated with our international operations and could become subject to legal penalties if we do not comply with certain regulations.

Our international operations subject us to a number of legal requirements, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the U.K. Bribery Act and the customs, export, trade sanctions and anti-boycott laws of the United States, including those administered by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Bureau of Industry and Security, the Department of Commerce, the Department of State, and the Office of Foreign Assets Control of the Treasury Department, as well as those of other nations.

In addition, many of the countries where our customers use our products and services have licensing and regulatory requirements for the importation and use of satellite communications and reception equipment, including the use of such equipment in territorial waters, the transmission of satellite signals on certain radio frequencies, the transmission of VoIP services using such equipment and the reception of certain video programming services. These laws and regulations are continually changing, making compliance complex.

We incur significant costs identifying and maintaining compliance with applicable licensing and regulatory requirements. Our training and compliance programs and our other internal control policies may be insufficient to protect us from acts committed by our employees, agents or third-party contractors. Any violation of these requirements by us or our employees, agents or third-party contractors may subject us to significant criminal and civil liability.

Further, many of our commercial suppliers of satellite transmission capacity impose contractual obligations on us that permit them to suspend or terminate their provision of satellite services to support our network if we fail to maintain compliance with these laws and regulations.

The loss of access to satellite capacity would materially and adversely affect our satellite communications service offerings. We are subject to FCC rules and regulations, and any non-compliance could subject us to FCC enforcement actions, fines, loss of licenses and possibly restrictions on our ability to operate or offer certain of our services. The satellite communications industry in the United States is regulated by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and we are subject to FCC regulations relating to privacy, contributions to the Universal Service Fund, or USF, and other requirements. If we do not comply with FCC regulations, we could face enforcement actions, substantial fines, penalties, loss of licenses and possibly restrictions on our ability to operate or offer services. Any enforcement action by the FCC, which may be a public process, could hurt our reputation, impair our ability to sell our services to customers and harm our business and results of operations.

Privacy concerns and domestic or foreign laws and regulations may reduce demand for our services, increase our costs and harm our business. Our company and our customers can use our services to collect, use and store personal, confidential and sensitive information regarding the content and manner of usage of our services by them, their employees and maritime crews. Federal, state and foreign governments have adopted and are proposing more stringent laws and regulations regarding the collection, use, storage and transfer of information, such as the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”).

The costs of compliance with, and other burdens imposed by, such laws and regulations may limit the use and adoption of our services and reduce overall demand. Noncompliance with these laws and regulations could lead to significant remediation expenses, fines, penalties or other liabilities, such as orders or consent decrees that require modifications to our privacy practices, as well as reputational damage or third-party lawsuits seeking damages or other relief. For example, the GDPR imposes a strict data protection compliance regime with penalties of up to the greater of 2%-4% of worldwide revenue or €11-22 million.

Domestic and international legislative and regulatory initiatives may harm our ability, and the ability of our customers, to process, handle, store, use and transmit information, which could reduce demand for our services, increase our costs and force us to change our business practices. These laws and regulations are still evolving, are likely to be in flux and may be subject to uncertain interpretation for the foreseeable future. Our business also could be harmed if legislation or regulations are adopted, interpreted or implemented in a manner that is inconsistent from country to country or inconsistent with our current policies and practices or those of our customers. Risks related to owning our common stock The market price of our common stock may be volatile.

Our stock price has historically been volatile. Many factors may cause our stock price to fluctuate, including variations in quarterly results; the introduction of new products and services by us or our competitors; adverse business developments; reductions-in-force; changes in estimates of our performance or recommendations by securities analysts; the hiring or departure of key personnel; acquisitions or strategic alliances involving us or our competitors; market conditions in our industry; and the global macroeconomic and geopolitical environment. Broad market fluctuations may adversely affect our stock price. When the market price of a company’s stock drops significantly, stockholders often institute securities litigation against that company. Any such litigation could cause us to incur significant expenses defending against the claim, divert the time and attention of our management and result in significant damages.

Risks Related to the Regulation of Our Business We May Be Unable to Obtain or Maintain Required Authorizations or Contractual Arrangements.

Various types of U.S. domestic and international authorizations and contractual arrangements are required in connection with the products and services that we provide. See “Regulatory Environment.” Compliance with certain laws, regulations, conditions and other requirements, including the payment of fees, may be required to maintain the rights provided by such authorizations, including the rights to operate satellite earth stations in certain radio frequencies. Failure to comply with such requirements, or comply in a timely manner, could lead to the loss of such authorizations and could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We, or our group companies, currently hold authorizations to, among other things, operate various satellite earth stations (including but not limited to user terminals, facilities that interconnect with the internet backbone, and network hubs) and operate satellite space stations and/or use those space stations to provide service to certain jurisdictions. Such authorizations are conditioned upon meeting certain milestone conditions and/or due diligence requirements, which if not met or extended could result in loss of the authorization. While we anticipate that these authorizations will be extended or renewed in the ordinary course to the extent that they otherwise would expire, or replaced by authorizations covering more advanced facilities, we can provide no assurance that this will be the case. Our inability to timely obtain or maintain such authorizations could delay or preclude our operation of such satellites or our provision of products and services that rely upon such satellites.

Further, changes to the laws and regulations under which we operate could adversely affect our ability to obtain or maintain authorizations. Any of these circumstances could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The satellites of our partners that we connect to in our business are subject to the regulatory authority of, and conditions imposed by, foreign governments, as well as contractual arrangements with third parties and the regulations and procedures of the ITU governing access to orbital and spectrum rights and the international coordination of satellite networks. The use of spacecraft by our partners in our business is subject to various conditions in the underlying authorizations held by us and third parties, as well as the requirements of the laws and regulations of those jurisdictions.

Any failure to meet these types of requirements in a timely manner, maintain our contractual arrangements, obtain or maintain our authorizations, or manage potential conflicts with the orbital slot rights afforded to third parties, could lead to us losing our rights to operate from these orbital locations or may otherwise require us to modify or limit our operations from these locations, which could materially adversely affect our ability to operate a satellite at full capacity or at all, and could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Changes in the Regulatory Environment Could Have a Material Adverse Impact on Our Competitive Position, Growth and Financial Performance.

Our business is highly regulated. We are subject to the regulatory authority of the jurisdictions in which we operate, including the United States and other jurisdictions around the world. Those authorities regulate, among other things, the launch and operation of satellites, the use of radio spectrum, the ability to operate satellites at specific orbital locations in space, the licensing of earth stations and other radio transmitters, the provision of communications services, privacy and data security, and the design, manufacture and marketing of communications systems and networking infrastructure. The space stations and ground network we use to provide our broadband services operate using some spectrum that is regulated for use on a primary basis for certain types of the satellite services we provide, some spectrum that is regulated for use on a shared basis with terrestrial wireless services, and some spectrum that is regulated primarily for terrestrial wireless and other uses but that we are authorized to use on a secondary or non-interference basis.

Moreover, spectrum availability varies from country to country, and even within countries, within our service areas. Laws and regulations affecting our business are subject to change in response to industry developments, new technology, and political considerations, among other things. Legislators and regulatory authorities in various countries are considering, and may in the future adopt, new laws, policies and regulations, as well as changes to existing regulations. We cannot predict when or whether applicable laws or regulations may come into effect or change, or what the cost and time necessary to comply with such new or updated laws or regulations may be. For example, cybersecurity and data privacy security and protection laws and regulations are evolving and present increasing compliance challenges, which may increase our costs, affect our competitiveness, cause reputational harm and expose us to substantial fines or other penalties.

Changes in laws or regulations, including changes in the way spectrum is regulated and/or in regulations governing our products and services, changes in the way spectrum is made available to us, or is allowed to be used by others, or competing uses of spectrum or orbital locations, could, directly or indirectly, affect our operations or the operations of our distribution partners, increase the cost of providing our products and services and make our products and services less competitive. Some regulators are considering new or additional terrestrial services in the spectrum in which we operate, which may not be compatible with the way we use, or plan to use, that same spectrum.

In certain instances, such changes could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Among other things, changes to laws and regulations could materially harm our business by (1) affecting our ability to obtain or retain required governmental authorizations, (2) restricting our ability to provide certain products or services, (3) restricting development efforts by us and our customers, (4) making our current products and services less attractive or obsolete, (5) increasing our operational costs, or (6) making it easier or less expensive for our competitors to compete with us. Failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations could result in the imposition of financial penalties against us, the adverse modification or cancellation of required authorizations, or other material adverse actions. Any such matters could materially harm our business and impair the value of our common stock.

Our International Sales and Operations Are Subject to Applicable Laws Relating to Trade, Sanctions, Export Controls and Foreign Corrupt Practices, the Violation of Which Could Have a Material Adverse Impact on our Business.

We must comply with all applicable export control laws and regulations of the United States and other countries. U.S. export and control laws and regulations applicable to us include the Arms Export Control Act, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (ECRA) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). The export of certain satellite communications hardware, antenna control hardware, software services and technical data relating to communicating with satellites and communicating with manned and unmanned defense platforms is regulated by the U.S. Department of State under ITAR.

Certain satellite communications technologies and other items are controlled for export by the U.S. Department of Commerce under the EAR. Adverse changes in U.S. and Foreign export control laws that restrict our ability to conduct joint research activities with, or receive technical information from, US based defense contractor companies, will have a material adverse effect on our ability to conduct our business as currently contemplated.

In addition, we must comply with trade and economic sanctions laws and regulations, including those administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). We cannot provide certain products and services to certain countries or persons subject to U.S. trade sanctions unless we first obtain the necessary authorizations from OFAC. We are also subject to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the UK Bribery Act, which generally bar bribes to foreign governments or officials.

Although we have in place policies for our respective employees, directors and officers, and we have clauses in our contracts with our distribution partners, resellers and other intermediaries, we cannot be certain that any such activities are not undertaken, and cannot guarantee that our policies and contracts will prevent situations occurring, including actions by distribution partners, resellers and other intermediaries, for which we may be held responsible. Non-compliance with any applicable trade control, sanctions, export control or anti-corruption laws or other legal requirements may result in criminal and/or civil penalties, disgorgement and/or other sanctions and remedial measures, and may result in unexpected legal or compliance costs.

Violations of any of these laws or regulations could also result in more onerous compliance requirements, more extensive debarments from export privileges or loss of authorizations needed to conduct aspects of our business, and could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, any investigation of alleged violations of any such laws could have a material adverse impact on our reputation, business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our possession and use of personal information and the use of credit cards by our customers present risks and expenses that could harm our business. Unauthorized disclosure or manipulation of such data, whether through breach of our network security or otherwise, could expose us to costly litigation and damage our reputation.

Maintaining our network security is of critical importance because our online systems will store confidential registered user, employee and other sensitive data, such as names, email addresses, addresses and other personal information. We will depend on the security of our networks and the security of the network infrastructures of our third-party telecommunications service providers, our customer support providers and our other vendors. Unauthorized use of our, or our third-party service providers’, networks, computer systems and services could potentially jeopardize the security of confidential information, including credit card information, of our future customers.

There can be no assurance that any security measures we, or third parties, take will be effective in preventing these activities. As a result of any such breaches, customers may assert claims of liability against us as a result of any failure by us to prevent these activities. Further, our in-cabin network operates as an open, unsecured Wi-Fi hotspot, and non-encrypted transmissions users send over this network may be vulnerable to access by users on the same plane. These activities may subject us to legal claims, adversely impact our reputation, and interfere with our ability to provide our services, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

Failure to protect confidential customer data or to provide customers with adequate notice of our privacy policies could also subject us to liabilities imposed by United States federal and state regulatory agencies or courts. For example, the FCC’s Consumer Proprietary Network Information, or CPNI rules, applicable to our satellite-based offerings, require us to comply with a range of marketing and privacy safeguards. The Federal Trade Commission, or FTC, could assert jurisdiction to impose penalties related our service if it found our privacy policies or security measures to be inadequate under existing federal law. We could also be subject to certain state laws that impose data breach notification requirements, specific data security obligations, or other consumer privacy-related requirements. Our failure to comply with any of these rules or regulations could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Other countries in which we may operate or from which our services may be offered, including those in the European Union, also have certain privacy and data security requirements that may apply to our business, either now or in the future. These countries’ laws may in some cases be more stringent than the requirements in the United States. For example, European Union member countries have specific requirements relating to cross border transfers of personal information to certain jurisdictions, including to the United States.

In addition, some countries have stricter consumer notice and/or consent requirements relating to personal information collection, use or sharing. Moreover, international privacy and data security regulations may become more complex. For example, the European Union is considering a draft proposed data protection regulation which, if enacted, may result in even more restrictive privacy-related requirements. Our failure to comply with other countries’ privacy or data security-related laws, rules or regulations could also have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In addition, we expect that our customers in the future will use credit cards to purchase our products and services. Problems with our or our vendors billing software could adversely affect our customer satisfaction and could cause one or more of the major credit card companies to disallow our continued use of their payment services. In addition, if our billing software fails to work properly and, as a result, we do not automatically charge our subscribers’ credit cards on a timely basis or at all, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

Our Reputation and Business Could Be Materially Harmed as a Result of Data Breaches, Data Theft, Unauthorized Access or Hacking.

Our success depends, in part, on the secure and uninterrupted performance of our information technology systems. These systems may be subject to damage or interruption from, among other things, earthquakes, adverse weather conditions, other natural disasters, terrorist attacks, acts of war, rogue employees, power loss, telecommunications failures and cybersecurity risks. An increasing number of companies have disclosed breaches of their security, some of which have involved sophisticated and highly targeted attacks on their computer networks. Because the techniques used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service, or sabotage systems, change frequently and often are not recognized until launched against a target, we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures.

Additionally, outside parties may attempt to induce employees or users to disclose sensitive or confidential information in order to gain access to data. If unauthorized parties gain access to our information technology systems, they may be able to misappropriate assets or sensitive information (such as personal information of our customers, business partners and employees), cause interruption in our operations, corrupt our data or computers, or otherwise damage our reputation and business. In such circumstances, we could be held liable to our customers or other parties, or be subject to regulatory or other actions for breaching privacy rules. Any compromise of our security could result in a loss of confidence in our security measures, and subject us to litigation, civil or criminal penalties, and negative publicity that could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

We could also suffer other negative consequences, including significant remediation costs, significant increased cybersecurity protection costs, loss of material revenues resulting from attacks on our satellites or technology, and the unauthorized use of proprietary information or the failure to retain or attract customers following an attack. Further, if we are unable to comply with the security standards established by banks and the payment card industry, we may be subject to fines, restrictions, and expulsion from card acceptance programs, which could adversely affect our operations.

One customer accounted for 100% of our total revenues in fiscal year 2023.

The failure of this customer, or our inability to secure additional orders for any reason, including any downturn in their business or financial condition or our inability to renew this contract with this customer or obtain new contracts when they expire, could materially harm our business and impair the value of our common stock.

Our Development Contracts May Be Difficult for Us to Comply with and May Expose Us to Third-Party Claims for Damages, and We May Experience Losses from Fixed-Price Contracts.

We may be party to government and commercial contracts involving the development of new products. We derived 100% of our total revenues for fiscal year 2023 from one such development contract. These contracts typically contain strict performance obligations and project milestones. We cannot assure you we will comply with these performance obligations or meet these project milestones in the future. If we are unable to comply with these performance obligations or meet these milestones, our current and future customers may terminate these contracts and, under some circumstances, recover damages or other penalties from us. We cannot assure you that the other parties to any such contract will not terminate the contract or seek damages from us. If other parties elect to terminate their contracts or seek damages from us, it could materially harm our business and impair the value of our common stock.

A substantial majority of revenues in our peer’s government systems and commercial networks segments are derived from contracts with fixed prices. These types of contracts carry the risk of potential cost overruns because we could assume all of the cost burden. We could assume greater financial risk on fixed-price contracts than on other types of contracts because if we do not anticipate technical problems, estimate costs accurately or control costs during performance of a fixed-price contract, it would significantly reduce our net profit or cause a loss on the contract.

In the past, our peers have experienced significant cost overruns and losses on fixed-price contracts. Because these kinds of contracts typically involve new technologies and applications and can last for years, unforeseen events, such as technological difficulties, fluctuations in the price of raw materials, a significant increase in or a sustained period of increased inflation, problems with suppliers and cost overruns, can result in the contractual price becoming less favorable or even unprofitable to our peers over time (which, especially in the case of sharp increases in or significant sustained inflation, could happen quickly and have long-lasting impacts).

Furthermore, if we do not meet contract deadlines or specifications, we may need to renegotiate contracts on less favorable terms, be forced to pay penalties or liquidated damages or suffer major losses if the customer exercises its right to terminate. Although we will attempt to accurately estimate costs for any fixed-price contracts, we cannot assure you our estimates will be adequate or that substantial losses on fixed-price contracts will not occur in the future. If we are unable to address any of the risks described above, it could materially harm our business, financial condition and results of operations, and impair the value of our common stock.

Our Reliance on a Limited Number of Third Parties to Manufacture and Supply Our Products and the Components Contained therein Exposes Us to Various Risks.

We expect our internal manufacturing capacity to be limited to supporting new product development activities, building customized products that need to be manufactured in strict accordance with a customer’s specifications or delivery schedules, and building proprietary, highly sensitive AERKOMM-designed products and components for use in our proprietary technology platform. Therefore, our internal manufacturing capacity has been, and is expected to continue to be, very limited and we intend to continue to rely on contract manufacturers to produce the majority of our products. In addition, some components, subassemblies and services necessary for the manufacture of our products are obtained from a sole source supplier or a limited group of suppliers.

Our reliance on contract manufacturers and on sole source suppliers or a limited group of suppliers involves several risks. We may not be able to obtain an adequate supply of required components, and our control over the price, timely delivery, reliability and quality of finished products may be reduced. The process of manufacturing our products and some of our components and subassemblies is extremely complex. We have in the past experienced and may in the future experience delays in the delivery of and quality problems with products and components and subassemblies from vendors. Some of the suppliers we rely upon have relatively limited financial and other resources. Significant events such as an outbreak of a pandemic such as the COVID-19 pandemic and its lingering effects, natural disasters or extreme weather events (including as a result of climate change), acts of terrorism or civil unrest, cyberattacks, labor market instability or global shortages of components or materials may cause temporary or long-term disruptions in our supply chain and distribution systems and/or delays in the delivery of inventory.

If we are not able to obtain timely deliveries of components and subassemblies of acceptable quality or if we are otherwise required to seek alternative sources of supply or to substitute alternative technology, or to manufacture our finished products or components and subassemblies internally, our ability to satisfactorily and timely complete our customer obligations could be negatively impacted which could result in reduced sales, termination of contracts and damage to our reputation and relationships with our customers. This failure could also result in a customer terminating our contract for default. A default termination could expose us to liability and have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete for future contracts and orders. In addition, a delay in our ability to obtain components and equipment parts from our suppliers may affect our ability to meet our customers’ needs and may have an adverse effect upon our profitability.

We depend upon third parties to manufacture equipment components and to provide services for our network.

We rely on third-party suppliers for equipment components that we use to provide our planned services. The supply of third-party components could be interrupted or halted by a termination of our relationships, a failure to make timely contracted payments to such suppliers, a failure of quality control or other operational problems at such suppliers or a significant decline in their financial condition. If we are not able to continue to engage suppliers with the capabilities or capacities required by our business, or if such suppliers fail to deliver quality products, parts, equipment and services on a timely basis consistent with our schedule, our business prospects, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected.

We Depend on a Limited Number of Key Employees Who Would Be Difficult to Replace.

We depend on a limited number of key technical, marketing and management personnel to manage and operate our business. In particular, we believe our success depends to a significant degree on our ability to attract and retain highly skilled personnel, including our Executive Director of the Board (Jeff Hsu), our Chief Executive Officer (Louis Giordimaina), our Chief Operating Officer (Georges Caldironi) and our Chief Technology Officer (Jeffrey Wun), and those highly skilled design, process and test engineers involved in the development of existing products and the development of new products and processes. The competition for these types of personnel is intense, and the loss of key employees could materially harm our business and impair the value of our common stock. To the extent that the demand for qualified personnel exceeds supply, we could experience higher labor, recruiting or training costs to attract and retain such employees, or experience difficulties in performing under our contracts if our needs for such employees were unmet.

Because We Conduct Business Internationally, We Face Additional Risks, including Risks Related to Global Political and Economic Conditions, Changes in Regulation and Currency Fluctuations.

100% of our total revenues in fiscal year 2023 were derived from a single international sale, and we expect that a significantly percentage of our business and sales will continue to be conducted internationally. Conducting business internationally involves additional risks, including unexpected changes in laws, policies and regulatory requirements (including regulations related to import-export control); increased cost of localizing systems in foreign countries; increased sales and marketing and R&D expenses; availability of suitable export financing; timing and availability of export licenses; imposition of taxes, tariffs, embargoes, sanctions and other trade barriers; political and economic instability, wars, insurrections and other conflicts, such as the ongoing conflict involving Ukraine; issues related to the political relationship between the United States and other countries; fluctuations in currency exchange rates (including their effect on sales denominated in foreign currencies), foreign exchange controls and restrictions on cash repatriation; compliance with international laws and U.S. laws affecting the activities of U.S. companies abroad, including existing and future privacy and cyber-related laws; challenges in staffing and managing foreign operations; difficulties in managing distributors; requirements for additional liquidity to fund our international operations; ineffective legal protection of our intellectual property rights in certain countries; potentially adverse tax consequences; potential difficulty in making adequate payment arrangements; and potential difficulty in collecting accounts receivable. In addition, some of our component purchase agreements are governed by foreign laws, which may differ significantly from U.S. laws and we may be limited in our ability to enforce our rights under these agreements and to collect damages, if awarded. As a result of these and other risks, we may be unsuccessful in implementing our business plan for our business internationally, or we may not be able to achieve the revenues that we expect. If we are unable to address any of the risks described above, it could materially harm our business and impair the value of our common stock. Due to the global nature of our operations, we are subject to the complex and varying tax laws and rules of many countries and have material tax-related contingent liabilities that are difficult to predict or quantify. We are also subject to tax audits, including with respect to transfer pricing, in the United States and other jurisdictions and our tax positions may be challenged by tax authorities. There can be no assurance that our current tax provisions will be settled for the amounts accrued, that additional tax exposures will not be identified in the future or that additional tax reserves will not be necessary for any such exposures. Any increase in the amount of taxation incurred as a result of challenges to our tax filing positions could result in a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our Investment in Ejectt Inc. (formerly Yuanjiu Inc.) could result in losses to us.

On December 3, 2020, we made a prepayment to three individuals to purchase from them an aggregate of 6,000,000 restricted shares of Ejectt Inc. for approximately $5 million, for business purposes in Taiwan relating to the AirCinema Cube. Ejectt Inc. is a listed company on the Taiwan Stock Exchange and a local business partner of ours. Although we are purchasing these shares as a long-term investment, the shares are currently restricted. If we determine that we need to sell these shares to raise funds for other business purposes, there may not be an immediate buyer and we may have to sell the shares at a loss. This could have a negative effect on our income statement and our ability to raise funds when needed.

We may fail to recruit, train and retain the highly skilled employees that are necessary to remain competitive and execute our growth strategy. The loss of one or more of our key personnel could harm our business.

Competition for key technical personnel in high-technology industries such as ours is intense. We believe that our future success depends in large part on our continued ability to hire, train, retain and leverage the skills of qualified engineers and other highly skilled personnel needed to maintain and grow our business and technology. We may not be as successful as our competitors at recruiting, training, retaining and utilizing these highly skilled personnel. In particular, we may have more difficulty attracting or retaining highly skilled personnel during periods of poor operating performance. Any failure to recruit, train and retain highly skilled employees could negatively impact our business and results of operations.

We depend on the continued service and performance of our key personnel, including Louis Giordimaina, our Chief Executive Officer, Jeffrey Wun, our President and Chief Technology Officer, and Georges Caldironi, our Chief Operating Officer. Such individuals have acquired specialized knowledge and skills with respect to our operations. As a result, if any of these individuals were to leave us, we could face substantial difficulty in hiring qualified successors and could experience a loss of productivity while any such successor obtains the necessary training and expertise. We do not maintain key man insurance on any of our officers or key employees. The loss of key personnel, including key members of our management team, as well as certain of our key marketing or technology personnel, could disrupt our operations and have an adverse effect on our ability to grow our business.

We have identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. If we fail to develop or maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results and prevent fraud. As a result, current and potential stockholders could lose confidence in our financial statements, which would harm the trading price of our common stock.

Companies that file reports with the SEC, including us, are subject to the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or SOX 404. SOX 404 requires management to establish and maintain a system of internal control over financial reporting and annual reports on Form 10-K filed under the Exchange Act to contain a report from management assessing the effectiveness of a company’s internal control over financial reporting. Separately, under SOX 404, as amended by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, public companies that are large accelerated filers or accelerated filers must include in their annual reports on Form 10-K an attestation report of their regular auditors attesting to and reporting on management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting. Non-accelerated filers and smaller reporting companies, like us, are not required to include an attestation report of their auditors in annual reports.

A report of our management is included under the section titled “Controls and Procedures.” We are a smaller reporting company and, consequently, are not required to include an attestation report of our auditor in our annual transition report. However, if and when we become subject to the auditor attestation requirements under SOX 404, we can provide no assurance that we will receive a positive attestation from our independent auditors.   

During its evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2023, management identified a material weakness. The material weakness was associated with our lack of sufficient and skilled accounting personnel with an appropriate level of technical accounting knowledge and experience in the application of accounting principles generally accepted in the United States commensurate with our financial reporting requirements and our need to rely heavily on the use of external legal and accounting professionals to mitigate these deficiencies. We are undertaking remedial measures, which measures will take time to implement and test, to address this material weakness. There can be no assurance that such measures will be sufficient to remedy the material weakness identified or that additional material weaknesses or other control or significant deficiencies will not be identified in the future. If we continue to experience material weaknesses in our internal controls or fail to maintain or implement required new or improved controls, such circumstances could cause us to fail to meet our periodic reporting obligations or result in material misstatements in our financial statements, or adversely affect the results of periodic management evaluations and, if required, annual auditor attestation reports. Each of the foregoing results could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information and lead to a decline in our stock price.

Expenses or liabilities resulting from litigation could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

From time to time, we may be subject to claims or litigation in the ordinary course of our business, including for example, claims related to employment matters and class action lawsuits. Our operations are characterized by the use of new technologies and services across multiple jurisdictions that implicate a number of statutory schemes and a range of rules and regulations that may be subject to broad or creative interpretation, which may subject to us to litigation, including class action lawsuits, the outcome of which may be difficult to assess or quantify due to the potential ambiguity inherent in these regulatory schemes and/or the nascence of our technologies and services. Plaintiffs in these types of litigation may seek recovery of very large or indeterminate amounts, and the magnitude of the potential loss relating to such lawsuits may remain unknown for substantial periods of time. Any such claims or litigation may be time-consuming and costly, divert management resources, require us to change our products and services, or have other adverse effects on our business. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and could require us to pay significant monetary damages. In addition, costly and time-consuming litigation could be necessary to enforce our existing contracts and, even if successful, could have an adverse effect on us. In addition, prolonged litigation against any airline partner, customer or supplier could have the effect of negatively impacting our reputation and goodwill with existing and potential airline partners, customers and suppliers.

Technological advances may harm our business.

Due to the widening use of state-of-the-art, personal electronic devices such as Apple’s iPad, ever-increasing numbers of passengers have their own mobile devices, which they might use to bring their own content such as movies, music or games with them on a flight. This could decrease demand for our in-flight offerings. Carriers now also have greater technical means at their disposal to offer passengers in-flight access to the Internet, including through our offerings and those of our competitors. At present, these offerings do not allow passengers to fully stream content on their mobile devices.

If, however, in-flight Internet access in the future allows passengers to fully stream content on their mobile devices, this could decrease demand for our in-flight offerings. While both trends will give rise to risks as well as opportunities for us, it is impossible to foresee at present whether and, if so, to what extent these trends will have lasting effects. Note, too, that the in-flight entertainment connectivity systems currently in place are unable to support these developments. Given average useful lives of 15 to 20 years, the conventional systems will continue to dominate the in-flight entertainment industry for the foreseeable future. As a result, possible changes will happen slowly, giving all market players sufficient time to adapt.

We may have exposure to foreign currency risks in the future and our future hedging activities could create losses.

Currency risks essentially arise from the fact that sales to customers and purchasing are affected in one currency while fixed costs are incurred in other currencies. If necessary, we will engage in hedging transactions to counteract direct currency risks. However, we cannot always guarantee that all currency risks will have been hedged in full. Severe currency fluctuations could also cause the hedging transactions to fail if agreed thresholds (triggers) are not met or exceeded. We therefore cannot fully preclude negative foreign currency effects in the future – some of which might be substantial – due to unforeseen exchange rate fluctuations and/or inaccurate assessments of market developments.

We will source our content from studios, distributors and other content providers, and any reduction in the volume of content produced by such content providers could hurt our business by providing us with less quality content to choose from and resulting in potentially less attractive offerings for customers.

We will receive content from studios, distributors and other content providers, and in some circumstances, we will depend on the volume and quality of the content that these content providers produce. If studios, distributors or other content providers were to reduce the volume or quality of content they make available to us over any given time period, whether because of their own financial limitations or other factors influencing their businesses, we would have less quality content to choose from and our programmers would have more difficulty finding relevant and appropriate content to provide to our customers. This could negatively impact the passenger experience, which could in turn reduce the demand for our offerings, which would have a negative impact on our revenue and results of operations.

One of our CDN services is intended to be the pre-loaded OTT (over-the-top) service, which requires negotiating alliances with multiple OTT players. Several risk factors may impact subscriber and revenue growth and projections:

We are a holding company with no operations of our own, and we depend on our subsidiaries for cash.

Currently, we are a holding company and do not have any material assets or operations other than ownership of equity interests of our subsidiaries. Our operations are conducted almost entirely through our subsidiaries, and our ability to generate cash to meet our obligations or to pay dividends is highly dependent on the earnings of, and receipt of funds from, our subsidiaries through dividends or intercompany loans. The ability of our subsidiaries to generate sufficient cash flow from future operations to allow us and them to make scheduled payments on our obligations will depend on their future financial performance, which will be affected by a range of economic, competitive and business factors, many of which are outside of our control. We cannot assure you that the cash flow and future earnings of our operating subsidiaries will be adequate for our subsidiaries to service their debt obligations.

If our subsidiaries do not generate sufficient cash flow from future operations to satisfy corporate obligations, we may have to: undertake alternative financing plans (such as refinancing), restructure debt, sell assets, reduce or delay capital investments, or seek to raise additional capital. We cannot assure you that any such alternative refinancing would be possible, that any assets could be sold, or, if sold, of the timing of the sales and the amount of proceeds realized from those sales, that additional financing could be obtained on acceptable terms, if at all, or that additional financing would be permitted under the terms of our various debt instruments then in effect. Our inability to generate sufficient cash flow to satisfy our obligations, or to refinance our obligations on commercially reasonable terms, would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Furthermore, we and our subsidiaries may incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future that may severely restrict or prohibit our subsidiaries from making distributions, paying dividends or making loans to us.

Risks Related to Our Indebtedness.

Our Level of Indebtedness May Adversely Affect Our Ability to Operate Our Business, Remain in Compliance with Debt Covenants, React to Changes in Our Business or the Industry in which We Operate, or Prevent Us from Making Payments on Our Indebtedness

We have a significant amount of indebtedness. As of December 31, 2023, the aggregate principal amount of our total outstanding indebtedness was approximately $33 million, which was comprised of approximately $10 million in principal amount of our Convertible Bond (as defined below) and approximately $23 million in principal amount of our Convertible Note (as defined below). As of December 31, 2023, we had undrawn availability of $7 million under our Convertible Note. Our high level of indebtedness could have important consequences. For example, it could:

Any of these risks could materially impact our ability to fund our operations or limit our ability to expand our business, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. We may also incur significant additional indebtedness in the future, which may include financing relating to future satellites, potential acquisitions, joint ventures and strategic alliances, working capital, capital expenditures or general corporate purposes.

We May Not Be Able to Generate Sufficient Cash to Service All of Our Indebtedness and Fund Our Working Capital and Capital Expenditures or Refinance Our Indebtedness, and May Be Forced to Take Other Actions to Satisfy Our Obligations under Our Indebtedness, which May Not Be Successful

Our ability to make scheduled payments on or to refinance our indebtedness will depend upon our future operating performance and on our ability to generate cash flow in the future, which is subject to economic, financial, business, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control. We cannot assure you that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations, or that future borrowings will be sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness, or to fund our other liquidity needs. Moreover, there can be no assurance that we will be able to refinance our debt obligations on commercially reasonable terms, or at all.

If our cash flows and capital resources are insufficient to fund our debt service obligations, we could face substantial liquidity problems and could be forced to reduce or delay investment and capital expenditures or to dispose of material assets or operations, seek additional debt or equity capital or restructure or refinance our indebtedness. We may not be able to effect any such alternative measures, if necessary, on commercially reasonable terms or at all and, even if successful, such alternative actions may not allow us to meet our scheduled debt service obligations. If we cannot make scheduled payments on our debt, we will be in default and, as a result, the lenders under our Convertible Bond and the holders of the Convertible Note and our Bonds (as defined below) could declare all outstanding principal and interest to be due and payable, and could foreclose against the assets securing the borrowings under our Bonds and Notes, and we could be forced into bankruptcy or liquidation, which could result in you losing your investment in our company.

Risks Relating to our Industries.

The satellites that we currently rely on or may rely on in the future have minimum design lives but could fail or suffer reduced capacity before then.

The usefulness of the satellites upon which we currently rely and may rely on in the future is limited by each satellite’s minimum design life. For example, the satellites through which we provide will our services have minimum design lives ranging from 10 to 15 years. Our ability to offer in-flight connectivity and alleviate capacity constraints throughout our network will depend on the continued operation of the satellites or any replacement satellites, each of which will have a limited useful life. We can provide no assurance, however, as to the actual operational lives of those or future satellites, which may be shorter than their design lives, nor can we provide assurance that replacement satellites will be developed, authorized or successfully deployed.

In the event of a failure or loss of any of these satellites, our satellite service providers may relocate another satellite and use it as a replacement for the failed or lost satellite, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Such a relocation may require regulatory approval, including through, among other things, a showing that the replacement satellite would not cause additional interference compared to the failed or lost satellite. We cannot be certain that our satellite service provider could obtain such regulatory approval. In addition, we cannot guarantee that another satellite will be available for use as a replacement for a failed or lost satellite, or that such relocation can be accomplished without disrupting or otherwise adversely impacting our business.

Satellites that are not yet in service are subject to construction and launch related risks.

Satellite construction and launch are subject to significant risks, including delays, launch failure and incorrect orbital placement. Launch failures result in significant delays in the deployment of satellites because of the need both to construct replacement satellites and to obtain other launch opportunities. Construction and launch delays could materially and adversely affect our ability to generate revenues.

Satellite Failures or Degradations in Satellite Performance for our Partners Could Affect Our Business, Financial Condition and Results of Operations

While we do not own and operate our own satellites, because we are a value-added reseller of bandwidth on our partners’ satellites, it is critical to note the general risks related to satellites, which are faced by our partners. Satellites utilize highly complex technology, operate in the harsh environment of space and are subject to significant operational risks while in orbit. These risks include malfunctions (commonly referred to as anomalies), such as malfunctions in the deployment of subsystems and/or components, interference from electrostatic storms, and collisions with meteoroids, decommissioned spacecraft or other space debris. Anomalies can occur as a result of various factors, including satellite manufacturer error, problems with the power or control sub-system of a satellite or general failures caused by the harsh space environment.

Our partners’ satellites have experienced various anomalies in the past and we will likely experience anomalies in the future. Any single anomaly or other operational failure or degradation on the satellites we use could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Anomalies may also reduce the expected useful life of a satellite, thereby creating additional expense due to the need to provide replacement or backup capacity, which may not be available on reasonable economic terms, a reasonable schedule or at all. In addition, anomalies may cause a reduction of the revenues generated by the applicable satellite or the recognition of an impairment loss, and could lead to claims from third parties for damages. Finally, anomalies may adversely affect our ability to insure our satellites at commercially reasonable premiums or terms, if at all. While some anomalies are covered by insurance policies, others may not be covered or may be subject to large deductibles. Although our partners’ satellites typically have redundant or backup systems and components that operate in the event of an anomaly, operational failure or degradation of primary critical components, these redundant or backup systems and components are subject to risk of failure similar to those experienced by the primary systems and components. The occurrence of a failure of any of these redundant or backup systems and components could materially impair the useful life, capacity, coverage or operational capabilities of the satellite.

Our Partners’ Satellites Have a Finite Useful Life, and Their Actual Operational Life May Be Shorter than Their Design Life

Our ability to earn revenues from integrating and reselling our partners’ satellite services depends on the continued operation of the satellites they own and operate or use. Each satellite has a limited useful life, referred to as its design life. There can be no assurance as to the actual operational life of a satellite, which may be shorter than its design life. A number of factors affect the useful lives of the satellites, including the quality of design and construction, durability of component parts and back-up units, the ability to continue to maintain proper orbit and control over the satellite’s functions, the efficiency of the launch vehicle used, consumption of on-board fuel, degradation and durability of solar panels, the actual space environment experienced and the occurrence of anomalies or other in-orbit risks affecting the satellite. In addition, continued improvements in satellite technology may make satellites obsolete prior to the end of their operational life.

Our Partners’ New or Proposed Satellites Are Subject to Significant Risks Related to Construction and Launch that Could Limit Our Ability to Utilize these Satellites

Satellite construction and launch are subject to significant risks, including construction delays, manufacturer error, cost overruns, regulatory conditions or delays, unavailability of launch opportunities, launch failure, damage or destruction during launch and improper orbital placement, any of which could result in significant additional cost or materially impair the useful life, capacity, coverage or operational capabilities of the satellite. The technologies in our partners’ satellite designs are also very complex, and there can be no assurance that the technologies will work as our partners expect or that our partners will realize any or all of their anticipated benefits. The identification of construction-related issues in our partners satellites is not uncommon. For example, our partner Viasat’s ViaSat-2 satellite experienced an antenna deployment issue which reduced its output capabilities. Our satellite partners have also experienced delays in satellite construction and launch, such as the delay experienced, also by Viasat, in launching their ViaSat-2 satellite caused by civil unrest in French Guiana (the location of the satellite launch), construction delays in ViaSat’s ViaSat-3 satellites caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and delays in the launch of the ViaSat-3 Americas satellite due to high priority launch missions and adverse weather conditions at the launch site. If satellite construction schedules are not met or other events prevent satellite launch on schedule, a launch opportunity may not be available at the time the satellite is ready to be launched.

In addition, delays in construction or launch could impact our partners’ ability to meet milestone conditions in their satellite authorizations and/or to maintain the rights they may enjoy under various ITU or FCC filings, which in turn could impact our own business, to the extent that we are reliant on certain satellites being in operation to deliver and resell services to our customers. A launch failure may result in significant delays because of the need both to construct a replacement satellite and to obtain other launch opportunities. The overall historical loss rate in the satellite industry for all launches of commercial satellites in fixed orbits in the last five years is estimated by some industry participants to be close to 0% but could at any time be higher. Launch vehicles may also underperform, in which case the satellite may still be able to be placed into service by using its onboard propulsion systems to reach the desired orbital location, but this would cause a reduction in its useful life. Moreover, even if launch is successful, there can be no assurance that the satellite will successfully reach its geostationary orbital slot and pass in-orbit testing prior to transfer of control of the satellite to its operator. The failure to implement a satellite deployment plan on schedule could have a material adverse effect on our partners’—and by extension our own—business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our Partners’ Potential Satellite Losses May Not Be Fully Covered By Insurance, or at All

Our partners may not be able to obtain or renew pre-launch, launch or in-orbit insurance for their satellites on reasonable economic terms or at all. A failure by our partners to obtain or renew their satellite insurance may also result in a default under their debt instruments. In addition, the occurrence of anomalies on other satellites, or failures of a satellite using similar components or failures of a similar launch vehicle to any launch vehicle our partners intend to use, may materially adversely affect our partners’ ability to insure their satellites at commercially reasonable premiums or terms, if at all. The policies covering our partners insured satellites will not cover the full cost of constructing and launching or replacing a satellite nor fully cover our losses in the event of a satellite failure or significant degradation. Moreover, such policies do not cover lost profits, business interruptions, fixed operating expenses, loss of business or similar losses, including contractual payments that our partners may be required to make under their agreements with their customers, including ourselves, for interruptions or degradations in service. Our partners’ insurance typically contains customary exclusions, material change and other conditions that could limit recovery under those policies, and may contain exclusions for past satellite anomalies. Further, any insurance proceeds may not be received on a timely basis in order to launch a replacement satellite or take other remedial measures. In addition, the policies are subject to limitations involving uninsured losses, large satellite performance deductibles and policy limits. To the extent that these risks weaken our satellite partners and negatively impact their business and financial position, our own business and financial position may similarly be impacted by extension.

Our future airline industry business may be affected by factors beyond the airlines’ control. The airline industry is highly competitive and sensitive to changing economic conditions.

Our planned commercial aviation connectivity business is directly affected by the number of passengers flying on commercial aircraft, the financial condition of the airlines and other economic factors. If consumer demand for air travel declines, including due to increased use of technology such as videoconferencing for business travelers, or the number of aircraft and flights shrinks due to, among other reasons, another pandemic, reductions in capacity by airlines, the number of passengers available to use our service will be reduced, which would have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Unfavorable general economic conditions and other events that are beyond the airlines’ control, including higher unemployment rates, higher interest rates, reduced stock prices, reduced consumer and business spending, terrorist attacks or threats and pandemics could have a material adverse effect on the airline industry. A general reduction or shift in discretionary spending can result in decreased demand for leisure and business travel and lead to a reduction in airline flights offered and the number of passengers flying. Further, unfavorable economic conditions could also limit airlines’ ability to counteract increased fuel, labor or other costs though raised prices. Our airline partners operate in a highly competitive business market and, as a result, continue to face pressure on offerings and pricing. These unfavorable conditions and the competitiveness of the air travel industry could cause one or more of our airline partners to reduce expenditures on passenger services including deployment of our service or file for bankruptcy. Any of these events would have a material adverse effect on our business prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

Limited satellite availability may delay or curtail our ability to develop our satellite backhaul business.

If the number of satellite launches is delayed or falls short of the current planned quantity, it will directly impact the adoption rate of satellite communication for mobile backhaul, which, in turn, will directly affect our planned backhaul business. The availability of an adequate number of satellites is crucial for establishing a robust satellite communication infrastructure to support mobile backhaul services. However, if the planned number of satellite launches is not met, it can limit the capacity and coverage capabilities of the satellite communication system. Insufficient satellite coverage may result in reduced availability of mobile backhaul services via satellite, impacting our ability to offer comprehensive solutions to customers.

Furthermore, a lower adoption rate of satellite communication for mobile backhaul due to limited satellite availability may also affect our competitiveness in the market. Customers may turn to competitors offering alternative solutions or may delay their adoption of mobile backhaul services altogether.

Our planned CDN business will be subject to certain industry-specific risks that may affect our operations and financial performance. 

These risks include:

Monitoring these risks and implementing proactive measures is essential. Adapting to market dynamics, investing in technology, and prioritizing customer satisfaction will help us maintain a strong position in the competitive content delivery landscape.

Air traffic congestion at airports, air traffic control inefficiencies, weather conditions, such as hurricanes or blizzards, increased security measures, new travel-related taxes, the outbreak of disease or any other similar event could harm the airline industry.

Airlines are subject to cancellations or delays caused by factors beyond their control. Cancellations or delays due to weather conditions or natural disasters, air traffic control problems, breaches in security or other factors could reduce the number of passengers on commercial flights and thereby reduce demand for the services provided by us and our products and services and harm our businesses, results of operations and financial condition.

Our Defense Business Requires Compliance with Myriad Regulations and Introduces Requirements on our Operations

For certain potential classified programs which we aim to support in the future, we may need special security clearances to work on and advance certain of our potential programs and potential contracts with U.S. and foreign governments.

Classified programs generally will require that we comply with various Executive Orders, federal laws and regulations, as well as customer security requirements, that may include restrictions on how we develop, store, protect and share information, and may require our employees to obtain government clearances.

In addition, we are subject to industry-specific regulations due to the nature of the products and services we provide. For example, certain aspects of our business are subject to further regulation by additional U.S. government authorities, or their foreign government counterparts abroad, including (i) the Federal Aviation Administration, which regulates airspace for all air vehicles in the U.S. National Airspace System, (ii) the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Federal Communications Commission, which regulate the wireless communications upon which our potential customers manned and unmanned platforms depend in the United States and (iii) the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) at the U.S. Department of State that administers the International Traffic in Arms Regulations, which regulate manufacturing, exporting or temporarily importing defense articles, or furnishing defense services.

In addition, the export, reexport and transfer of certain of our potential products and technology may require the issuance of a license by the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) at the U.S. Department of Commerce under the Export Control Reform Act, and its implementing regulations, the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Some of our potential products may require the issuance of a license by DDTC, which licenses can be more difficult to obtain than BIS licenses. As our research and development and customer base continue to evolve, the requirements on our business and on our employees to comply with these regulations may increase.

Our Technologies may Be Subject to Export Control Regulations, which May Limit or Restrict the Universe of Potential Investors and Acquirers of our Common Stock, which May Impact the Performance of our Share Price.

The nature of the work we do for the federal government may also limit the parties who may invest in or acquire us. For instance, export control laws may keep us from providing potential foreign acquirers with a review of the technical data they would be acquiring. 

In addition, there are special requirements for foreign parties who wish to buy or acquire certain rights with respect to companies that undertake activities that present potential national security concerns, including those related to controlled technology and/or U.S. government contracts. There may need to be a review of foreign investment by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) under the Defense Production Act and the Foreign Investment Risk Review Modernization Act, which could result in mitigation measures imposed on the company or prohibitions against certain investments in the company by foreign parties. 

Finally, the government may require a prospective foreign owner to agree to certain limitations on its ownership, control and/or influence over the company, including by establishing intermediaries to manage and control that part of the company that does classified work. These limitations may make such an acquisition less appealing to such potential acquirers.