Rocket Lab is buying Iridium’s satellite network for $8 billion to take on SpaceX

Rocket Lab has announced plans to acquire Iridium Communications for $8 billion. This strategic move combines Rocket Lab's spacecraft manufacturing and launch services, specifically its Electron launcher, with Iridium's established satellite-based communications network. By utilizing this acquisition as a shortcut to expand its capabilities, Rocket Lab intends to better position itself to challenge SpaceX and its Starlink service. Iridium currently provides essential communications services to over 2.5 million users globally.