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Iridium Communications

Operator of a global low Earth orbit satellite network used for phones, IoT trackers, ship safety and backup positioning, now adding standard cellular chips that connect straight to its satellites. Rocket Lab agreed to buy it in 2026.

Products, by altitude

Low Earth orbit · 160–2,000 km

  • In service

    Iridium GMDSS

    Satellite distress alerts and safety calls for ships anywhere

  • In service

    Iridium PNT

    Backup position and timing signal that resists GPS jamming

Known rounds

DateRoundAmountLed by
Nov 2019Debt$1.4BDeutsche Bank Securities, Barclays, Credit Suisse, Wells Fargo Securities, Societe Generale⁠1
Oct 2010Debt$1.8BDeutsche Bank, Banco Santander, Societe Generale, Natixis, Mediobanca International⁠2

Milestones

  • Oct 2026 Iridium reported Q3 2026 revenue of $245.7 million and 2,696,000 billable subscribers. Company statement⁠3
  • Sep 2026 Iridium stockholders approved the Rocket Lab acquisition, with 99.6% of votes cast in favor. Company statement⁠3
  • Jul 2026 Iridium completed its acquisition of Aireon. Company statement⁠3
  • Jun 2026 Iridium signed a definitive agreement to be acquired by Rocket Lab for $27.00 in cash plus Rocket Lab stock per share; completion is expected by mid-2027. Company statement⁠3

Sources

  1. Iridium (SEC exhibit 99.1)Nov 4, 2019
  2. IridiumOct 4, 2010
  3. Iridium press releaseOct 20, 2026
  4. Iridium press releaseSep 24, 2026
  5. SEC EDGAR, Iridium Communications Inc. company page

Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction