Rocket Lab Corporation and Iridium Communications Inc. have entered into a definitive agreement under which Rocket Lab will acquire Iridium for $54 per share in a cash and stock transaction, representing an enterprise value of approximately $8.0 billion.
The acquisition is one of the most transformative deals in the space industry, merging Rocket Lab’s leading launch capabilities and satellite manufacturing with Iridium’s global satellite communications network, spectrum, and partner ecosystem. The combined company will design, build, launch, and operate its own constellations, delivering critical communications capability to millions of users worldwide.
The transaction gives Rocket Lab an immediate foothold in space-based applications, including satellite Internet of Things (IoT), direct-to-device (D2D) services, positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), and critical safety-of-life services. Iridium’s globally harmonised L-band spectrum and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network provide a secure, resilient foundation for reliable satellite communications and PNT services across government, defence, aviation, maritime, and commercial markets.
Sir Peter Beck, Founder and CEO of Rocket Lab, stated:
“This is a defining moment for the space industry and the start of a new era of strategic, accelerated growth for Rocket Lab and Iridium. Iridium has built the gold standard in secure, safety-critical global satellite connectivity. By marrying Iridium’s deep heritage, trusted infrastructure, and highly sought-after spectrum with Rocket Lab’s extensive and proven launch and manufacturing capabilities, we have the capability to unlock entirely new markets.”
Matt Desch, CEO of Iridium, added:
“As the worlds of space and terrestrial communications continue to converge, more critical services will depend on space-based capabilities. Success will come from those who can bring new innovations to space quickly and sustain them over time as efficiently as possible. We’re excited about being able to accelerate the next generation of IoT, aviation, maritime, PNT, and national security capabilities as part of Rocket Lab.”
Transaction Highlights:
- Creates an end-to-end space company spanning launch, spacecraft, spectrum, and on-orbit communications services
- Provides immediate access to a proven constellation of LEO satellites and an established global communications customer base
- Adds globally-coordinated L-band spectrum enabling reliable user communications
- Unifies two trusted government partners to deliver resilient next-generation capabilities
- Diversifies financial profile with recurring cash flow streams (Iridium delivered $871.7 million revenue in 2025)
The transaction is expected to be completed in mid-2027, subject to customary closing conditions, including approval of Iridium stockholders and required regulatory approvals. Rocket Lab has received commitments for a $3.6 billion senior secured bridge term loan facility from Deutsche Bank and Wells Fargo to fund the cash component.
