Rocket Lab Fully Funds Iridium Deal

Rocket Lab announced on September 15, 2026, that it has fully funded the cash consideration for its pending acquisition of Iridium Communications. The deal is expected to close in mid-2027, subject to regulatory approvals.

The company raised approximately $1.944 billion in gross proceeds through an at-the-market equity program by issuing 29.3 million shares before commissions and offering expenses. The net proceeds will fund cash payments for the deal. If the transaction does not close or excess funds remain, Rocket Lab plans to use the money for general corporate purposes, working capital, and future growth or acquisitions.

In parallel, Iridium entered into an amendment on September 15, 2026, for its $1.775 billion term loan facility outstanding as of June 30, 2026. Lenders agreed to carve out the pending buyout from the credit agreement change of control definition. Rocket Lab USA will provide an unsecured parent guarantee for the debt upon closing.

With the term loan amendment in place and equity secured, Rocket Lab terminated a $3.6 billion senior secured bridge facility originally arranged on June 28, 2026. The company noted that the term loan, share sale proceeds, and existing unrestricted cash are sufficient to pay the cash consideration, refinance select Iridium debt, and cover transaction expenses.