Rocket Lab, a launch firm, is acquiring satellite provider Iridium, positioning itself to evolve into a more comprehensive space services enterprise while continuing the trend of industry consolidation.

The transaction, which is still pending completion, will involve Rocket Lab purchasing Iridium’s shares at $54 apiece, attributing an $8 billion valuation to the satellite entity.

This marks one of several acquisitions for Rocket Lab within the current year. The firm previously acquired space robotics developer Motiv in May, laser communications supplier Mynaric in April, and a precision component maker in February. Last year, it also purchased optical sensor defense firm Geost.

Iridium not only manages numerous satellites that are currently orbiting but also possesses a significant portfolio of valuable spectrum. In a press release issued on Monday, Rocket Lab stated its intention to “build upon” Iridium’s existing network to “expand into uncharted markets and innovate new space-centric services for the advantage of global clients.”

The announcement from Rocket Lab follows years of consolidation within the space and satellite sector, with notable transactions including Viasat’s acquisition of Inmarsat, a private equity firm’s purchase of Maxar in 2023, and Lockheed Martin’s acquisition of satellite producer Terran Orbital in 2024. In April 2026, Amazon, which is developing a space-based internet rival to SpaceX’s Starlink, acquired satellite firm Globalstar for $11.6 billion.