Rocket Lab to acquire Iridium for $8B to rival SpaceX
- Source
- The Verge
- Time
- 2:19 PM
- Weight
- 94/100
Rocket Lab has announced its plans to acquire Iridium Communications in an $8 billion deal intended to create a vertically integrated space powerhouse. The acquisition will merge Rocket Lab’s existing launch services and spacecraft manufacturing capabilities with Iridium’s established global satellite communications network.
By securing Iridium’s 66 low-Earth orbit satellites and valuable L-band spectrum, Rocket Lab aims to position itself as a primary competitor to SpaceX and its Starlink division. Iridium currently serves over 2.5 million subscribers, providing critical connectivity for maritime, aviation, and government users in remote locations.