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Rocket Lab Buys Iridium

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Today, 10:36 AM by Rich Brome @rbrome.bsky.social

Space launch provider Rocket Lab has reached a deal to acquire Iridium, one of the larger established providers of global satellite connectivity for mobile devices. This better positions Rocket Lab to compete with SpaceX and its Starlink network. It also follows Amazon's purchase of GlobalStar, one of Iridium's major competitors. Starlink, GlobalStar, and Iridium have all recently introduced new D2D (direct to device) services that let smaller devices such as cell phones connect directly to their satellite networks, providing coverage in cellular "dead zones". Iridium holds licenses for valuable L-band radio spectrum. "Rather than simply continuing the Iridium network, Rocket Lab will build upon it to scale into untapped markets and pioneer new space-based services to the benefit of global customers." The $8 billion deal is expected to be completed in mid-2027.

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