Globalstar Challenges Rocket Lab's Planned Takeover of Iridium
Globalstar, SpaceX and Ligado ask the FCC to scrutinize the Rocket Lab and Iridium deal, while the companies push for fast approval.
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what happened
According to Stocktwits, Globalstar told the FCC in a Friday filing that Rocket Lab, as a satellite supplier, could gain an edge over a rival once it acquires Iridium. Globalstar said Rocket Lab has access to its spacecraft designs, operating procedures and delivery schedules, and pointed to a $143 million subcontract through MDA to build 17 satellite platforms.
In a joint reply, Rocket Lab and Iridium argued that the concerns raised by SpaceX and Ligado predate the merger and belong in other regulatory proceedings. The deal is valued at $8 billion in enterprise value, and the companies are targeting a closing in mid-2027. The next FCC filing deadline is November 9.
why it matters
For investors, the key question is the timing and conditions of regulatory approval. A delay or extra requirements could push back closing and affect how the market values both companies' shares. The companies cite the FCC's clearance of Amazon's $11.5 billion Globalstar acquisition as a precedent.
market impact
Rocket Lab, Iridium: regulatory objections add uncertainty to the outlook for both stocks
tags
instruments
sources
- RKLB’s Iridium Deal Draws Heat As Globalstar Echoes SpaceX Concerns — Rocket Lab Seeks Fast FCC Approval — Stocktwits, 3 November 2026 at 06:47 UTC
prepared by the newsmetry newsroom with ai assistance from the sources listed below. not investment advice.
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