Rocket Lab buys Iridium in an $8 billion deal to build the most formidable rival to Musk's SpaceX — will it…
- Rocket Lab gains rocket satellite spectrum and communications under one corporate roof
- Iridium brings 2.55 million subscribers and global satellite coverage capabilities
- Starlink may finally face competition across military satellite communications markets
Rocket Lab has agreed to acquire Iridium in a transaction worth approximately $8 billion, creating one of the largest vertically integrated space companies in America.
The agreement values Iridium shares at $54 each through a combination of cash payments and Rocket Lab stock issued to shareholders.
Both boards of directors unanimously approved the transaction, which is expected to close in mid-2027 pending stockholder and regulatory approvals.
Rocket Lab now controls almost everything
The acquisition gives Rocket Lab access to Iridium's low Earth orbit network, globally coordinated L-band spectrum and more than 500 partners worldwide.
Iridium currently supports over 2.55 million subscribers using satellite communications, navigation services and emergency connectivity across commercial and government markets.
Rocket Lab already manufactures...
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