Rocket Lab NASDAQ:RKLB said on Monday it would acquire satellite communications provider Iridium Communications NASDAQ:IRDM in a cash-and-stock deal valued at about $8 billion, marking one of the biggest consolidation moves in the commercial space industry.
Iridium shareholders will receive $27 in cash and Rocket Lab shares, with a combined value of $54 per Iridium share. The deal is expected to close in mid-2027.
The acquisition will transform Rocket Lab from a satellite-manufacturing and launch company into a fully integrated space business that designs, builds, launches and operates satellite constellations.