Rocket Lab has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Iridium Communications for approximately $8 billion enterprise value, marking one of the largest consolidation moves in the commercial space sector. The cash-and-stock transaction, valued at $54 per Iridium share ($27 cash plus Rocket Lab stock), combines Rocket Lab’s launch vehicles and satellite manufacturing with Iridium’s global L-band satellite network, licensed spectrum, and 2.5 million subscribers across government, defense, aviation, maritime, and commercial markets. The deal, unanimously approved by both boards, is expected to close in mid-2027 pending regulatory approvals and shareholder consent, transforming Rocket Lab into a fully vertically integrated space superpower spanning launch, spacecraft production, and satellite-based communications services.