Acquisition Details
Rocket Lab announced on June 29, 2026, that it is acquiring satellite operator Iridium in a deal valued at $8 billion. The transaction, which has not yet closed, will see Rocket Lab purchase Iridium’s stock for $54 per share. This acquisition marks a significant step for Rocket Lab as it transitions from a launch provider into a more comprehensive space services company.
Iridium’s Assets
Iridium currently operates dozens of satellites in low Earth orbit and holds a valuable portfolio of spectrum licenses. In a press release on Monday, Rocket Lab stated that it plans to “build upon” Iridium’s existing network to “scale into untapped markets and pioneer new space-based services to the benefit of global customers.”
A Year of Strategic Acquisitions
This deal continues Rocket Lab’s aggressive buying spree in 2026. Earlier this year, the company acquired space robotics firm Motiv in May, laser communications provider Mynaric in April, and an undisclosed company in February. Rocket Lab also purchased Geost last year. These acquisitions highlight a concerted effort to vertically integrate and expand its space technology portfolio.
Industry Consolidation Trend
Rocket Lab’s announcement comes amid a wave of consolidation across the space and satellite sectors. Notable recent deals include ViaSat’s acquisition of Inmarsat, a private equity firm buying Maxar in 2023, Lockheed Martin acquiring satellite manufacturer Terran Orbital in 2024, and Amazon—which is building a space-based internet competitor to SpaceX’s Starlink—buying Globalstar for $11.6 billion in April 2026.