Yep, it's pretty clear that Section 31 will probably go into production after Star Trek Picard S3 (assuming we get to that point and I only say that because by that time, Patrick Stewart will be 83-85 in the best of circumstances) wraps.
Even before COVID, they were saying they were at least looking in to filming seasons two and three back to back, and I swear I read somewhere that Picard was anticipated to only run for those three seasons, at least at one point.
That in mind, and in light of other precautions, I can definitely see why giving 31 the breathing room of a couple more years of development until they wrap Picard would make sense. Like, I can absolutely see ways that a 31 series can or could develop, and I definitely got the impression that Michelle Yeoh fully intends to return as Georgiou in some fashion, which, honestly, I feel like that’s at least half the motivation to keep the wheels turning on this, even if it’s not in active production.
So if, functionally, the current slate of live action Trek is Discovery Season Four, SNW Season One, and what is in practice a double sized Picard Season Two, that’s definitely enough plates spinning to not put a fourth series (sixth if you count Lower Decks and Prodigy) into production - This gives them enough time not just to work out the kinks in advance, but also help establish a distinct tone for all the shows, make sure they get their own identity. Because that strikes me as the key thing for keeping the brand going.
I wouldn’t write any epitaphs yet. Just because plans change, that doesn’t mean the end of this idea.
