Rocket Lab Corporation has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Iridium Communications in a cash and stock transaction valued at US$54 per share, representing an enterprise value of approximately US$8 billion.
The acquisition aims to combine Rocket Lab’s launch and satellite manufacturing capabilities with Iridium’s global satellite communications network and spectrum to establish a vertically integrated space company.
“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,” said Matt Desch, Chief Executive Officer at Iridium.
“We’re excited about being able to accelerate the next generation of IoT, aviation, maritime, PNT, and national security capabilities, and pursue new innovative applications as part of Rocket Lab – a fully integrated, end-to-end space company.”
The low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network operated by Iridium utilises globally coordinated L-band spectrum to provide connectivity for more than 2.55 million active subscribers across maritime and other sectors.
It also offers an alternative Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) architecture for environments where the Global Positioning System (GPS) or other Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are degraded.
“Iridium has built the gold standard in secure, safety critical global satellite connectivity. It is relied upon by maritime fleets, the aviation industry, governments, and heavy industrial organisations who operate in the most remote off-the-grid locations,” said Sir Peter Beck, Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Rocket Lab.
“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. We will go far beyond maintaining a legacy; we are going to build upon it to pioneer next-generation space applications and deliver sought-after capabilities to existing and new customers.”
In 2025, Iridium reported US$871.7 million in revenue and US$495 million in Operational EBITDA (OEBITDA).
The transaction has received unanimous approval from the boards of directors of both companies and is expected to close in mid-2027, subject to approval by Iridium stockholders, regulatory clearances, and customary closing conditions.
