Iridium shareholders approve Rocket Lab acquisition agreement

Iridium shareholders approved the merger agreement for Rocket Lab’s proposed acquisition on 24 September 2026, according to the satellite operator’s filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The vote satisfies the shareholder-approval condition for a transaction that would put Iridium’s worldwide communications network under Rocket Lab.

The filing records 85,862,105 shares voting in favour, 318,415 against and 67,862 abstaining. In their joint announcement, the companies put support at approximately 99.6% of votes cast, representing about 81% of Iridium’s outstanding shares entitled to vote.

Under the announced terms, each Iridium share would receive $27 in cash plus Rocket Lab shares calculated using an exchange ratio subject to a collar. The companies describe a notional value of $54 per Iridium share; the consideration is not an all-cash payment.

Iridium describes its network as providing voice, data and aircraft-surveillance services worldwide. Its maritime safety role is independently documented: the International Maritime Organization’s May 2018 committee record recognises Iridium satellite services for use in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System.

Iridium’s filing continues to target completion in mid-2027, subject to required regulatory approvals and other remaining closing conditions. The shareholder vote therefore advances the proposed ownership change without completing the acquisition.