June 29 (Reuters) - Rocket Lab ( RKLB ) said on Monday it

would acquire satellite communications provider Iridium

Communications ( IRDM ) in a cash-and-stock deal valued at about

$8 billion, marking one of the biggest consolidation moves in

the commercial space industry.

Iridium shareholders will receive $27 in cash and Rocket Lab ( RKLB )

shares, with a combined value of $54 per Iridium share. The deal

is expected to close in mid-2027.

The acquisition will transform Rocket Lab ( RKLB ) from a

satellite-manufacturing and launch company into a fully

integrated space business that designs, builds, launches and

operates satellite constellations.