Rocket Lab to Acquire Iridium for $8 Billion

Rocket Lab has entered a definitive agreement to acquire satellite communications provider Iridium in a cash and stock transaction valued at $8 billion. The deal integrates Rocket Lab’s launch and manufacturing capabilities with Iridium’s global L-band network and 2.55 million subscribers.

This move positions Rocket Lab to compete directly with SpaceX by creating a vertically integrated space company. The acquisition is expected to close in mid-2027, pending regulatory and shareholder approval.