🇺🇸 SECRocket Lab Corp.Doubao · 实盘不做把握 7/10不做原因:已被定价
北京时间·🕒 发布 18:44:20·⟳ 抓取 18:46:37 +2m17s·⚡ 决策 09-15 18:50:50 +4m13s·41.8 天前
Rocket Lab完成19.44亿美元ATM融资并终止36亿美元过桥贷款,Iridium收购资金全部落实
这是并购执行阶段的正面融资里程碑:取消高成本过桥贷款、保留Iridium定期贷款并补足现金,降低融资失败风险;但19.44亿美元ATM计划早于8月13日公布,2930万股已在过去一个月实际售出,当前公告主要确认完成,而非新增经营利好或提高报价。RKLB市值约374亿美元,盘前仅约+0.7%,且交易要到2027年中才可能完成,缺乏短线正期望。
📄 原文Rocket Lab Corp.↗ 原文
----- g085951_8k.htm ----- UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM 8-K CURRENT REP…
不做 Rocket Lab Corporation(RKLB.US)
融资落地是正面执行信号,但ATM融资计划已于8月13日披露、2930万股已完成发行,约19.44亿美元摊薄基本被市场吸收;盘前仅约+0.7%,且交易仍待监管审批、预计2027年中交割,短线新增edge不足。
不做 Iridium Communications Inc.(IRDM.US)
贷款人同意降低债务条款导致的交易失败风险,但收购报价未上调、交割窗口仍长;该消息更像并购套利中的风险小幅下降,不足以形成新的方向性交易。
展开详情(成交明细 / 研究档案 / 原文全文 / 决策记录链)
研究档案
结论摘要
Rocket Lab用已完成的19.44亿美元股权融资和Iridium债务重组替代36亿美元过桥贷款,资本结构风险下降;但融资方案和摊薄已提前披露并执行,交易仍有较长监管与交割窗口,当前不宜追多,也不构成做空催化。
消息传播链
- 公司发布新闻稿,宣布19.44亿美元ATM完成、Iridium信贷修订及36亿美元过桥贷款承诺终止。市场反应:盘前随后仅小幅走高,未出现显著跳空。
- 8-K以Item 7.01和Item 8.01正式披露信贷修订、过桥承诺终止和ATM募集金额,确认新闻稿内容具备法定披露效力。
- 2026-09-15 06:47 ET市场反应Futu盘前报价非一手RKLB盘前价62.98美元、较最近正规时段收盘约+0.69%,成交量约11.15万股,反应温和;IRDM盘前价格参考性很低。市场反应:RKLB盘前约+0.7%,未显示市场认为该融资里程碑具备重大新增惊喜。
关键理由
- 终止过桥贷款并获得Iridium债务控制权变更同意,降低了收购融资风险和潜在高息债务负担。
- 现金来源已足够覆盖交割对价,是并购从签约走向监管审批阶段的正面执行信号。
主要风险
- 约2930万股、约19.44亿美元股票发行对应约5%的股本扩张,摊薄虽已知晓但仍可能压制每股价值重估。
- 交易预计2027年中才完成,监管审批、股东投票、第三方提案或整合风险均未因融资完成而消失。
反向证据
- 做多前查反向 · 来源 filing · 日期 2026-09-15 · 影响 weakens
8-K前瞻性陈述明确提示监管批准、股东批准、第三方提案、整合、债务融资和股价波动风险,且预计2027年中才完成;融资到位不能消除交割风险。
检索:Rocket Lab Iridium regulatory approval close mid-2027 ATM dilution downside risks 原文 ↗ - 做多前查反向 · 来源 futu · 日期 2026-09-15 · 影响 weakens
RKLB近20个交易日累计下跌约22.1%、距52周高点约58.6%,13周轨迹总体下行;ATM发行期内弱势提示摊薄和并购风险已被反复交易。
检索:RKLB recent share performance ATM dilution Iridium deal August September 2026 - 做空前查反向 · 来源 kb_search · 日期 2026-07-09 · 影响 weakens
内部库中Cantor等观点仍认可Rocket Lab执行记录和并购后的垂直整合逻辑,本次融资落地也降低了资金链风险,没有形成强做空催化。
检索:Rocket Lab Iridium acquisition analyst Cantor Overweight vertical integration free cash flow 原文 ↗
先例如何影响了这次决策
对本次决策的影响:先例不足使交易置信度和期望收益下降,叠加公告本身温和的盘前反应,最终选择AVOID而非小仓试探。
方向:未获得可用于统计的、同市场同相位的并购融资完成/过桥贷款终止先例;仅有同一交易6月签约公告,但事件相位是首次并购公告,不能用来校准本次融资确认的幅度。
涨幅量级:缺少高相似、首发锚干净且相位一致的先例,不能据此设定止盈区间;盘前实际反应也仅约+0.7%。
形态:本次扫描未见同类融资确认反复大涨的可靠模式;同一交易6月公告时RKLB和航天股曾有明显情绪反应,但那是并购首次公布,不代表执行阶段里程碑仍有同等弹性。
工具执行结果 · 成功 9 · 降级 0 · 失败 0 · 取消 0
- search_processed_events 成功 stock_tools HTTP · 18 ms
{"result": "search_processed_events:agent query=`iridium credit agreement amendment change of control consent rocket lab | rocket lab atm equity offering $1.944 billion iridium merger | rocket lab iridium acquisition financing br`;结构化索引覆盖完整 72 小时;旧记录兼容扫描近 0.0/72 小时、0 条本臂决策(完整),返回 0 条候选。未命中只表示这些 agen - read_local_file 成功 本地只读文件 · 1 ms
<DOCUMENT> - web_search 成功 doubao_search · 1,876 ms
豆包搜索结果(原始查询:Rocket Lab Iridium acquisition $1.944 billion ATM bridge loan terminated September 2026;API SearchType:web) - stock_quote 成功 stock_tools HTTP · 623 ms
{ - stock_quote 成功 stock_tools HTTP · 113 ms
{ - search_case_library 成功 stock_tools HTTP · 155 ms
{"result": "search_case_library「IRDM.US,RKLB.US」—— 与这些标的相关、事件类型=并购重组的自家决策案例(本页 1 条,该标的全历史相关记录共 90 条;ENTER 只按该标的自己的腿统计):\n◆ IRDM.US:相关历史决策 22 条 · 其中该标的 ENTER 0 条(0.0%) · 我们从没在这只票上 ENTER 过\n◆ RKLB.US:相关历史决策 68 条 · 其中该标的 ENTER 7 条(10.3%) · 已结算 7 笔 · 胜率 29% · 中位 -0.49% · 均值 +0.80% ⚠️只有 7 笔,样本太薄,只能当线索不能当 - web_search 成功 doubao_search · 2,071 ms
豆包搜索结果(原始查询:Rocket Lab Iridium merger announcement June 28 2026 stock reaction bridge financing ATM August 13 2026;API SearchType:web) - kb_search 成功 stock_tools HTTP · 3,428 ms
{ - web_search 成功 doubao_search · 2,215 ms
豆包搜索结果(原始查询:space acquisition fully funded bridge facility terminated equity offering stock reaction merger financing milestone acquirer;API SearchType:web)
原文全文
展开原文 · 31,637 字
----- g085951_8k.htm -----
UNITED
STATES
SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON,
D.C. 20549
FORM
8-K
CURRENT
REPORT
Pursuant
to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date
of Report (Date of earliest event reported):
September 15, 2026
ROCKET
LAB CORPORATION
(Exact
name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Delaware
001-39560
39-2182599
(State or Other Jurisdiction
of
Incorporation)
(Commission File Number)
(IRS Employer
Identification
No.)
3881
McGowen Street
Long
Beach
,
California
90808
(Address of Principal Executive
Offices)
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s
Telephone Number, Including Area Code:
714
465-5737
Not
Applicable
(Former
Name or Former Address, if Changed Since Last Report)
Check
the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under
any of the following provisions:
☒
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities
Act (17 CFR 230.425)
☐
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange
Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
☐
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under
the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
☐
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under
the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))
Securities
registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading
Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which
registered
Common
Stock, par value $0.0001 per share
RKLB
Nasdaq Global Select Market
Indicate
by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§ 230.405
of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§ 240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging
growth company
☐
If
an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying
with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Item
7.01. Regulation FD Disclosure.
On September 15, 2026, Rocket Lab Corporation (the “Company” or “Rocket Lab”) issued a press release announcing
certain updates related to the financing of its previously announced pending acquisition of Iridium Communications Inc. (“Iridium”).
A copy of the press release is attached hereto and furnished herewith as Exhibit 99.1.
The
information set forth under this Item 7.01 and Exhibit 99.1 is not being filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), and is not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, whether made before or after the date hereof, regardless of any general
incorporation language in any such filing, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.
Item
8.01 Other Events.
As
previously disclosed in its Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2026, Rocket Lab
entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”), dated as of June 28, 2026, with Iridium, Ion Merger
Sub I, Inc., a Delaware corporation and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Rocket Lab (“Merger Sub I”), and Ion Merger
Sub II, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Rocket Lab (“Merger Sub II”).
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, subject to the terms and conditions thereof, Merger Sub I will merge with and into Iridium (the “First
Merger”), with Iridium continuing as the surviving corporation and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Rocket Lab, and following
the First Merger, the surviving corporation in the First Merger will merge with and into Merger Sub II (together with the First Merger,
the “Transaction”), with Merger Sub II continuing as the surviving entity.
Iridium
Credit Agreement Amendment
Iridium
is a party to that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 20, 2023 (as amended, supplemented or otherwise
modified, the “Existing Iridium Credit Agreement”), among Iridium Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Holdings”),
solely with respect to Section 10.12 thereof, Iridium, Iridium Satellite LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Borrower”),
the Lenders party thereto from time to time and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as the Administrative Agent (the “Administrative
Agent”) and the Collateral Agent.
On
September 15, 2026, Holdings, Iridium, the Borrower, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and the
Lenders on the signature pages thereto (constituting at least the Required Lenders as defined in the Existing Iridium Credit Agreement,
the “Consenting Lenders”) entered into a Consent and Amendment No. 4 (“Consent and Amendment No. 4”) to the Existing
Iridium Credit Agreement (as so amended, the “Amended Iridium Credit Agreement”) to, among other things, (i) provide that
the Transaction will not constitute a Change of Control (as defined in the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement) under the Amended Iridium
Credit Agreement, (ii) provide that the requisite lenders under the Existing Iridium Credit Agreement expressly consent to the Transaction,
(iii) provide for a downstream guarantee of the obligations under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement by Rocket Lab USA, Inc., the Company’s
primary operating subsidiary, upon the closing of the Transaction, and (iv) make certain other amendments to account for the Transaction,
which other amendments shall only take effect upon the consummation of the Transaction (and subject to the occurrence thereof). The other
amendments, solely from and after the closing of the Transaction (and subject to the occurrence thereof): (i) increase the interest rate
applicable to the term loans outstanding under the Existing Iridium Credit Agreement to a per annum rate of (a) SOFR plus an interest
rate margin that ranges from 2.50% to 3.00% or (b) base rate plus an interest rate margin that ranges from 1.50% to 2.00%, in each case,
based on the Company’s credit ratings, (ii) provide for an exit fee, which applies after the first anniversary of the closing of
the Transaction, in an amount equal to 1.00% of term loans prepaid and (iii) provide for a prepayment premium, applicable only in the
case of a repricing transaction (and in any event, not in the case of a change of control or transformative transaction), in an amount
equal to 1.00% of term loans subject to such repricing transaction.
As
a result of Consent and Amendment No. 4, the Transaction will not constitute a change of control under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement
and the term loans outstanding under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement will be permitted to remain outstanding after closing of the
Transaction.
Termination
of Bridge Debt Commitment
In
connection with the Merger Agreement and as previously disclosed, on June 28, 2026, Rocket Lab entered into a commitment letter, as well
as related fee letters, with Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch,
and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, pursuant to which Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association have committed
to provide, subject to the terms and conditions thereof, a 364-day senior secured bridge term loan facility in an aggregate principal
amount of $3.6 billion (the “Bridge Debt Commitment”).
Pursuant
to the terms of the commitment letter, the Bridge Debt Commitment was reduced automatically by a combination of net proceeds received
by Rocket Lab from equity offered under Rocket Lab’s previously announced replacement equity distribution agreement, dated August
13, 2026, with Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch and Wells Fargo Bank, National
Association under which it may offer and sell shares of Rocket Lab’s common stock (the “Shares”) having an aggregate
offering price of up to approximately $1.944 billion from time to time pursuant to an “at the market” program (the “ATM
Program”) and the $1.775 billion of term loans available under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement upon the consummation of the
Transaction. The Bridge Debt Commitment was formally terminated in full on September 15, 2026 prior to the effectiveness of the Consent
and Amendment No. 4. As of September 15, 2026, Rocket Lab had raised approximately $1.944 billion in gross proceeds, before commissions
and expenses, through the sale of approximately 29.3 million Shares under the ATM Program.
The
net proceeds raised to date under the ATM Program, together with the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement and other available cash and sources
of funding available to Rocket Lab, will be sufficient to pay the anticipated cash payments required in connection with the completion
of the Iridium Acquisition.
Additional
Information and Where to Find It
This
communication is being made in respect of a proposed transaction involving Rocket Lab Corporation (“Rocket Lab”) and Iridium
Communications Inc. (“Iridium”). In connection with the proposed transaction, Rocket Lab has filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that includes the proxy statement of Iridium that also
constitutes a prospectus of Rocket Lab. On August 26, 2026, the Registration Statement was declared effective, Iridium filed the definitive
proxy statement, and Rocket Lab filed the final prospectus. The definitive proxy statement/final prospectus was sent to the stockholders
of Iridium beginning on or about August 26, 2026, seeking their approval of certain transaction-related proposals. This communication
is not a substitute for the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus or any other documents which Rocket Lab or Iridium may file with
the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction.
The
definitive proxy statement/final prospectus and this communication are not offers to sell any securities, are not soliciting an offer
to buy any securities in any state where the offer and sale is not permitted and are not a solicitation of any vote or approval.
ROCKET
LAB AND IRIDIUM URGE INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, THE RELATED DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT/FINAL
PROSPECTUS INCLUDED THEREIN AND OTHER DOCUMENTS ROCKET LAB AND IRIDIUM FILE WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY
CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.
Investors
and security holders can obtain these materials free of charge (when they become available) at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.
Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Rocket Lab (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge on Rocket Lab’s
website at https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Rocket Lab’s Investor Relations
Department at investors@rocketlabusa.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Iridium (when they become available) may be obtained
free of charge on Iridium’s website at https://investor.iridium.com/sec-filings or by contacting Iridium’s Investor Relations
Department at investor.relations@iridium.com.
Participants
in the Solicitation
Robert
H. Niehaus, Louis M. Alterman, Thomas C. Canfield, Matthew J. Desch, Thomas J. Fitzpatrick, L. Anthony Frazier, Suzanne E. McBride, Eric
T. Olson, Kay N. Sears, Monique S. Shivanandan and Jacqueline E. Yeaney, all of whom are members of Iridium’s board of directors,
and Vincent J. O’Neill, Iridium’s chief financial officer, may be considered participants in Iridium’s solicitation.
Information regarding such participants, including their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is included
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Rocket Lab may also be deemed to be a participant
in Iridium’s solicitation; information regarding Rocket Lab is included in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed
with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Copies of these documents may be obtained, free of charge, from the SEC or Iridium as described in the
preceding paragraph.
Cautionary
Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This
communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking
statements are based on Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s current expectations, estimates and projections about the proposed transaction
and the potential benefits thereof, their respective businesses and industries, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made
by Rocket Lab and Iridium, all of which are subject to change. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future
events, including future business and financial performance and financial condition. All forward-looking statements by their nature address
matters that involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and are not guarantees of future results, such as
statements about the consummation of the proposed transaction and the anticipated benefits thereof, expectations regarding regulatory
approvals, and intentions with respect to financing the transaction. These and other forward-looking statements are not guarantees of
future results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from those indicated in such statements and, therefore, you should not place undue reliance on any such statements
and caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that may cause such a difference include,
but are not limited to: (i) the completion of the proposed transaction on anticipated terms and timing, or at all, including obtaining
stockholder and regulatory approvals and satisfying other conditions to the completion of the transaction; (ii) the occurrence of any
event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, including the receipt by Iridium
of an unsolicited proposal from a third party; (iii) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction on a timely
basis or at all, including anticipated tax treatment, unforeseen liabilities, future capital expenditures, revenues, expenses, earnings,
the integration of the businesses of Rocket Lab and Iridium, synergies, economic performance, indebtedness, financial condition, losses,
future prospects, business and management strategies for the management, expansion and growth of Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s
businesses; (iv) Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s ability to implement their business strategies; (v) potential litigation relating
to the proposed transaction that could be instituted against Rocket Lab, Iridium or their respective directors, managers, or officers,
including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; (vi) the risk that disruptions from the proposed transaction will harm Rocket
Lab’s or Iridium’s businesses, including current plans and operations, or will otherwise divert management time from ongoing
business operations on transaction-related issues; (vii) the ability of Rocket Lab or Iridium to retain and hire key personnel; (viii)
potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction;
(ix) fluctuations in, and uncertainty as to the long-term value of, Rocket Lab or Iridium common stock (including as relating to the
risk that any announcements related to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of such stock); (x) legislative,
regulatory and economic developments affecting Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s businesses, including actions by government agencies
and third parties; (xi) general economic and market developments and conditions, potential changes to international trade relations,
geopolitical conflicts and effects from global pandemics, epidemics, or other public health crises; (xii) the evolving legal, regulatory
and tax regimes under which Rocket Lab and Iridium operate; (xiii) restrictions during the pendency of the proposed transaction that
may impact Rocket Lab’s or Iridium’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; (xiv) unexpected
costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; (xv) risks that any debt or other financing anticipated in connection
with the proposed transaction is not obtained or that such financing cannot be obtained on the anticipated timing or terms or unexpected
costs or expenses in connection therewith; and (xvi) the other risks and uncertainties, as described in the periodic reports that Rocket
Lab and Iridium file with the SEC. These risks, as well as other risks associated with the proposed transaction, are more fully discussed
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026 in connection with the proposed transaction.
Neither Rocket Lab nor Iridium assumes any obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether
as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities
and other applicable laws. Forward-looking statements included in this communication are made as of the date of this communication.
Item
9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.
(d)
Exhibits
Exhibit No.
Description
99.1
Press Release of Rocket
Lab Corporation dated September 15, 2026
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the
Inline XBRL document).
SIGNATURES
Pursuant
to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
ROCKET
LAB CORPORATION
Date:
September
15, 2026
By:
/s/
Adam Spice
Adam
Spice
Chief Financial Officer
----- g085951_ex99-1.htm -----
EX-99.1
2
g085951_ex99-1.htm
EXHIBIT 99.1
Exhibit
99.1
Rocket
Lab Fully Funds Iridium Acquisition, Including Completion of $1.94 Billion ATM
•
Iridium
Acquisition Now Fully Financed:
Rocket Lab completes the $1.944 billion At-The-Market
(ATM) equity offering, securing the required cash consideration (alongside available liquidity)
to fully fund its pending acquisition of Iridium Communications - expected to close in mid-2027,
pending regulatory approvals.
•
Cost-Effective
Debt Structure Secured:
Iridium amends its existing $1.775 billion credit
facility to permit the change of control, establishing long-term, cost-effective permanent
financing backed by Iridium’s strong free cash flow and a parent guarantee from Rocket
Lab USA.
•
Bridge
Facility Terminated:
Rocket Lab successfully cancels the initial $3.6B senior
secured bridge facility, de-risking the capital structure ahead of the targeted close of
the acquisition in mid-2027.
Long
Beach, California. September 15, 2026 –
Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or the “Company”),
a global leader in launch services and space systems, today announced it has successfully completed several critical milestones to fully
finance its pending acquisition of Iridium Communications Inc. (“Iridium” and such pending transaction, the “Iridium
Acquisition”).
ATM
Program Update
Rocket
Lab has completed its previously announced At-The-Market share sale (the “ATM Program”), raising approximately $1.944 billion
in gross proceeds through the issuance of 29.3 million shares (before commissions and offering expenses).
Rocket
Lab intends to use the net proceeds from the ATM Program to fund cash payments under the Iridium Acquisition. If the Company does not
consummate the Iridium Acquisition or if it has excess proceeds from the offering of shares under the ATM Program, the Company intends
to use the net proceeds to fund future growth, including potential future acquisitions, and for general corporate and working capital
purposes.
Change
of Control Consent and Amendment for Iridium Existing Credit Agreement
On
September 15, 2026, Iridium entered into an amendment (the “Change of Control Amendment”) to its existing term loan
facility for its outstanding $1.775 billion term loans (as of June 30, 2026) (the “Iridium Term Loan”) to obtain consent
from the requisite lenders to, among other things, amend the definition of “Change of Control” under the credit
agreement to carve out Rocket Lab’s pending acquisition of Iridium. As part of the Change of Control Amendment, Rocket Lab
USA, Inc., the Company’s primary operating subsidiary and anticipated parent company of Iridium, will provide an unsecured
guarantee of the Iridium Term Loan upon the closing of the Iridium Acquisition.
The
completion of the Change of Control Amendment will provide Rocket Lab with cost-effective, permanent financing upon the closing of the
Iridium Acquisition, supported by Iridium substantial free cash flow.
Termination
of Debt Commitment Letter
The
Iridium Term Loan, together with the proceeds raised to date under the ATM Program and other unrestricted cash and cash equivalents available
to the Company, represent an amount sufficient to pay the required cash consideration, repay certain Iridium indebtedness (other than
the Iridium Term Loan) and pay related fees and expenses at the closing of the Iridium Acquisition. In connection with the consummation
of the Change of Control Amendment the Company also terminated its $3.6 billion debt commitment for a senior secured debt bridge facility
it had entered into in connection with the Iridium Acquisition merger agreement on June 28, 2026.
The
completion of the Change of Control Amendment and the proceeds raised under the ATM Program is another significant milestone in the Company’s
pending acquisition of Iridium, which is expected to be completed in mid-2027.
Rocket
Lab Investor Relations
investors@rocketlabusa.com
About
Rocket Lab
Rocket
Lab (Nasdaq: RKLB) is an end-to-end space company delivering rockets, satellites, and spacecraft components for commercial, government,
and defense missions. Driven by its industry-leading small-lift rockets Electron and HASTE and its upcoming reusable Neutron medium-lift
rocket, Rocket Lab delivers reliable and responsive launch for the world’s most important missions from constellation deployment
to missile defense. Rocket Lab’s satellites and components have powered more than 1,700 missions in Earth orbit, as well as deep-space
exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Learn more at www.rocketlabcorp.com.
Additional
Information and Where to Find It
This
communication is being made in respect of a proposed transaction involving Rocket Lab Corporation (“Rocket Lab”) and
Iridium Communications Inc. (“Iridium”). In connection with the proposed transaction, Rocket Lab has filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that includes the proxy statement of
Iridium that also constitutes a prospectus of Rocket Lab. On August 26, 2026, the Registration Statement was declared effective,
Iridium filed the definitive proxy statement, and Rocket Lab filed the final prospectus. The definitive proxy statement/final
prospectus was sent to the stockholders of Iridium beginning on or about August 26, 2026, seeking their approval of certain
transaction-related proposals. This communication is not a substitute for the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus or any
other documents which Rocket Lab or Iridium may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction.
The
definitive proxy statement/final prospectus and this communication are not offers to sell any securities, are not soliciting an offer
to buy any securities in any state where the offer and sale is not permitted and are not a solicitation of any vote or approval.
ROCKET
LAB AND IRIDIUM URGE INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, THE RELATED DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT/FINAL
PROSPECTUS INCLUDED THEREIN AND OTHER DOCUMENTS ROCKET LAB AND IRIDIUM FILE WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY
CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.
Investors
and security holders can obtain these materials free of charge (when they become available) at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.
Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Rocket Lab (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge on Rocket Lab’s
website at https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Rocket Lab’s Investor Relations
Department at investors@rocketlabusa.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Iridium (when they become available) may be obtained
free of charge on Iridium’s website at https://investor.iridium.com/sec-filings or by contacting Iridium’s Investor Relations
Department at investor.relations@iridium.com.
Participants
in the Solicitation
Robert
H. Niehaus, Louis M. Alterman, Thomas C. Canfield, Matthew J. Desch, Thomas J. Fitzpatrick, L. Anthony Frazier, Suzanne E. McBride, Eric
T. Olson, Kay N. Sears, Monique S. Shivanandan and Jacqueline E. Yeaney, all of whom are members of Iridium’s board of directors,
and Vincent J. O’Neill, Iridium’s chief financial officer, may be considered participants in Iridium’s solicitation.
Information regarding such participants, including their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is included
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Rocket Lab may also be deemed to be a participant
in Iridium’s solicitation; information regarding Rocket Lab is included in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed
with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Copies of these documents may be obtained, free of charge, from the SEC or Iridium as described in the
preceding paragraph.
Cautionary
Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This
communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking
statements are based on Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s current expectations, estimates and projections about the proposed transaction
and the potential benefits thereof, their respective businesses and industries, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made
by Rocket Lab and Iridium, all of which are subject to change. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future
events, including future business and financial performance and financial condition. All forward-looking statements by their nature address
matters that involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and are not guarantees of future results, such as
statements about the consummation of the proposed transaction and the anticipated benefits thereof, expectations regarding regulatory
approvals, and intentions with respect to financing the transaction. These and other forward-looking statements are not guarantees of
future results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from those indicated in such statements and, therefore, you should not place undue reliance on any such statements
and caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that may cause such a difference include,
but are not limited to: (i) the completion of the proposed transaction on anticipated terms and timing, or at all, including obtaining
stockholder and regulatory approvals and satisfying other conditions to the completion of the transaction; (ii) the occurrence of any
event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, including the receipt by Iridium
of an unsolicited proposal from a third party; (iii) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction on a timely
basis or at all, including anticipated tax treatment, unforeseen liabilities, future capital expenditures, revenues, expenses, earnings,
the integration of the businesses of Rocket Lab and Iridium, synergies, economic performance, indebtedness, financial condition, losses,
future prospects, business and management strategies for the management, expansion and growth of Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s
businesses; (iv) Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s ability to implement their business strategies; (v) potential litigation relating
to the proposed transaction that could be instituted against Rocket Lab, Iridium or their respective directors, managers, or officers,
including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; (vi) the risk that disruptions from the proposed transaction will harm Rocket
Lab’s or Iridium’s businesses, including current plans and operations, or will otherwise divert management time from ongoing
business operations on transaction-related issues; (vii) the ability of Rocket Lab or Iridium to retain and hire key personnel; (viii)
potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction;
(ix) fluctuations in, and uncertainty as to the long-term value of, Rocket Lab or Iridium common stock (including as relating to the
risk that any announcements related to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of such stock); (x) legislative,
regulatory and economic developments affecting Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s businesses, including actions by government agencies
and third parties; (xi) general economic and market developments and conditions, potential changes to international trade relations,
geopolitical conflicts and effects from global pandemics, epidemics, or other public health crises; (xii) the evolving legal, regulatory
and tax regimes under which Rocket Lab and Iridium operate; (xiii) restrictions during the pendency of the proposed transaction that
may impact Rocket Lab’s or Iridium’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; (xiv) unexpected
costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; (xv) risks that any debt or other financing anticipated in connection
with the proposed transaction is not obtained or that such financing cannot be obtained on the anticipated timing or terms or unexpected
costs or expenses in connection therewith; and (xvi) the other risks and uncertainties, as described in the periodic reports that Rocket
Lab and Iridium file with the SEC. These risks, as well as other risks associated with the proposed transaction, are more fully discussed
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026 in connection with the proposed transaction.
Neither Rocket Lab nor Iridium assumes any obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether
as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities
and other applicable laws. Forward-looking statements included in this communication are made as of the date of this communication.
UNITED
STATES
SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON,
D.C. 20549
FORM
8-K
CURRENT
REPORT
Pursuant
to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Date
of Report (Date of earliest event reported):
September 15, 2026
ROCKET
LAB CORPORATION
(Exact
name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)
Delaware
001-39560
39-2182599
(State or Other Jurisdiction
of
Incorporation)
(Commission File Number)
(IRS Employer
Identification
No.)
3881
McGowen Street
Long
Beach
,
California
90808
(Address of Principal Executive
Offices)
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s
Telephone Number, Including Area Code:
714
465-5737
Not
Applicable
(Former
Name or Former Address, if Changed Since Last Report)
Check
the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under
any of the following provisions:
☒
Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities
Act (17 CFR 230.425)
☐
Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange
Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)
☐
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under
the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))
☐
Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under
the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))
Securities
registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Trading
Symbol(s)
Name of each exchange on which
registered
Common
Stock, par value $0.0001 per share
RKLB
Nasdaq Global Select Market
Indicate
by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (§ 230.405
of this chapter) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (§ 240.12b-2 of this chapter).
Emerging
growth company
☐
If
an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying
with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Item
7.01. Regulation FD Disclosure.
On September 15, 2026, Rocket Lab Corporation (the “Company” or “Rocket Lab”) issued a press release announcing
certain updates related to the financing of its previously announced pending acquisition of Iridium Communications Inc. (“Iridium”).
A copy of the press release is attached hereto and furnished herewith as Exhibit 99.1.
The
information set forth under this Item 7.01 and Exhibit 99.1 is not being filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, as amended (“Exchange Act”), and is not to be incorporated by reference into any filing of the Company under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Exchange Act, whether made before or after the date hereof, regardless of any general
incorporation language in any such filing, except as shall be expressly set forth by specific reference in such a filing.
Item
8.01 Other Events.
As
previously disclosed in its Current Report on Form 8-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 29, 2026, Rocket Lab
entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger (the “Merger Agreement”), dated as of June 28, 2026, with Iridium, Ion Merger
Sub I, Inc., a Delaware corporation and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Rocket Lab (“Merger Sub I”), and Ion Merger
Sub II, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Rocket Lab (“Merger Sub II”).
Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, subject to the terms and conditions thereof, Merger Sub I will merge with and into Iridium (the “First
Merger”), with Iridium continuing as the surviving corporation and an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Rocket Lab, and following
the First Merger, the surviving corporation in the First Merger will merge with and into Merger Sub II (together with the First Merger,
the “Transaction”), with Merger Sub II continuing as the surviving entity.
Iridium
Credit Agreement Amendment
Iridium
is a party to that certain Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of September 20, 2023 (as amended, supplemented or otherwise
modified, the “Existing Iridium Credit Agreement”), among Iridium Holdings LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Holdings”),
solely with respect to Section 10.12 thereof, Iridium, Iridium Satellite LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Borrower”),
the Lenders party thereto from time to time and Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch, as the Administrative Agent (the “Administrative
Agent”) and the Collateral Agent.
On
September 15, 2026, Holdings, Iridium, the Borrower, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and the
Lenders on the signature pages thereto (constituting at least the Required Lenders as defined in the Existing Iridium Credit Agreement,
the “Consenting Lenders”) entered into a Consent and Amendment No. 4 (“Consent and Amendment No. 4”) to the Existing
Iridium Credit Agreement (as so amended, the “Amended Iridium Credit Agreement”) to, among other things, (i) provide that
the Transaction will not constitute a Change of Control (as defined in the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement) under the Amended Iridium
Credit Agreement, (ii) provide that the requisite lenders under the Existing Iridium Credit Agreement expressly consent to the Transaction,
(iii) provide for a downstream guarantee of the obligations under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement by Rocket Lab USA, Inc., the Company’s
primary operating subsidiary, upon the closing of the Transaction, and (iv) make certain other amendments to account for the Transaction,
which other amendments shall only take effect upon the consummation of the Transaction (and subject to the occurrence thereof). The other
amendments, solely from and after the closing of the Transaction (and subject to the occurrence thereof): (i) increase the interest rate
applicable to the term loans outstanding under the Existing Iridium Credit Agreement to a per annum rate of (a) SOFR plus an interest
rate margin that ranges from 2.50% to 3.00% or (b) base rate plus an interest rate margin that ranges from 1.50% to 2.00%, in each case,
based on the Company’s credit ratings, (ii) provide for an exit fee, which applies after the first anniversary of the closing of
the Transaction, in an amount equal to 1.00% of term loans prepaid and (iii) provide for a prepayment premium, applicable only in the
case of a repricing transaction (and in any event, not in the case of a change of control or transformative transaction), in an amount
equal to 1.00% of term loans subject to such repricing transaction.
As
a result of Consent and Amendment No. 4, the Transaction will not constitute a change of control under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement
and the term loans outstanding under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement will be permitted to remain outstanding after closing of the
Transaction.
Termination
of Bridge Debt Commitment
In
connection with the Merger Agreement and as previously disclosed, on June 28, 2026, Rocket Lab entered into a commitment letter, as well
as related fee letters, with Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch,
and Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, pursuant to which Deutsche Bank AG New York Branch and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association have committed
to provide, subject to the terms and conditions thereof, a 364-day senior secured bridge term loan facility in an aggregate principal
amount of $3.6 billion (the “Bridge Debt Commitment”).
Pursuant
to the terms of the commitment letter, the Bridge Debt Commitment was reduced automatically by a combination of net proceeds received
by Rocket Lab from equity offered under Rocket Lab’s previously announced replacement equity distribution agreement, dated August
13, 2026, with Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Deutsche Bank AG, London Branch and Wells Fargo Bank, National
Association under which it may offer and sell shares of Rocket Lab’s common stock (the “Shares”) having an aggregate
offering price of up to approximately $1.944 billion from time to time pursuant to an “at the market” program (the “ATM
Program”) and the $1.775 billion of term loans available under the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement upon the consummation of the
Transaction. The Bridge Debt Commitment was formally terminated in full on September 15, 2026 prior to the effectiveness of the Consent
and Amendment No. 4. As of September 15, 2026, Rocket Lab had raised approximately $1.944 billion in gross proceeds, before commissions
and expenses, through the sale of approximately 29.3 million Shares under the ATM Program.
The
net proceeds raised to date under the ATM Program, together with the Amended Iridium Credit Agreement and other available cash and sources
of funding available to Rocket Lab, will be sufficient to pay the anticipated cash payments required in connection with the completion
of the Iridium Acquisition.
Additional
Information and Where to Find It
This
communication is being made in respect of a proposed transaction involving Rocket Lab Corporation (“Rocket Lab”) and Iridium
Communications Inc. (“Iridium”). In connection with the proposed transaction, Rocket Lab has filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that includes the proxy statement of Iridium that also
constitutes a prospectus of Rocket Lab. On August 26, 2026, the Registration Statement was declared effective, Iridium filed the definitive
proxy statement, and Rocket Lab filed the final prospectus. The definitive proxy statement/final prospectus was sent to the stockholders
of Iridium beginning on or about August 26, 2026, seeking their approval of certain transaction-related proposals. This communication
is not a substitute for the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus or any other documents which Rocket Lab or Iridium may file with
the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction.
The
definitive proxy statement/final prospectus and this communication are not offers to sell any securities, are not soliciting an offer
to buy any securities in any state where the offer and sale is not permitted and are not a solicitation of any vote or approval.
ROCKET
LAB AND IRIDIUM URGE INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, THE RELATED DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT/FINAL
PROSPECTUS INCLUDED THEREIN AND OTHER DOCUMENTS ROCKET LAB AND IRIDIUM FILE WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY
CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.
Investors
and security holders can obtain these materials free of charge (when they become available) at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.
Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Rocket Lab (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge on Rocket Lab’s
website at https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Rocket Lab’s Investor Relations
Department at investors@rocketlabusa.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Iridium (when they become available) may be obtained
free of charge on Iridium’s website at https://investor.iridium.com/sec-filings or by contacting Iridium’s Investor Relations
Department at investor.relations@iridium.com.
Participants
in the Solicitation
Robert
H. Niehaus, Louis M. Alterman, Thomas C. Canfield, Matthew J. Desch, Thomas J. Fitzpatrick, L. Anthony Frazier, Suzanne E. McBride, Eric
T. Olson, Kay N. Sears, Monique S. Shivanandan and Jacqueline E. Yeaney, all of whom are members of Iridium’s board of directors,
and Vincent J. O’Neill, Iridium’s chief financial officer, may be considered participants in Iridium’s solicitation.
Information regarding such participants, including their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is included
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Rocket Lab may also be deemed to be a participant
in Iridium’s solicitation; information regarding Rocket Lab is included in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed
with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Copies of these documents may be obtained, free of charge, from the SEC or Iridium as described in the
preceding paragraph.
Cautionary
Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This
communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking
statements are based on Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s current expectations, estimates and projections about the proposed transaction
and the potential benefits thereof, their respective businesses and industries, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made
by Rocket Lab and Iridium, all of which are subject to change. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future
events, including future business and financial performance and financial condition. All forward-looking statements by their nature address
matters that involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and are not guarantees of future results, such as
statements about the consummation of the proposed transaction and the anticipated benefits thereof, expectations regarding regulatory
approvals, and intentions with respect to financing the transaction. These and other forward-looking statements are not guarantees of
future results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from those indicated in such statements and, therefore, you should not place undue reliance on any such statements
and caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that may cause such a difference include,
but are not limited to: (i) the completion of the proposed transaction on anticipated terms and timing, or at all, including obtaining
stockholder and regulatory approvals and satisfying other conditions to the completion of the transaction; (ii) the occurrence of any
event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, including the receipt by Iridium
of an unsolicited proposal from a third party; (iii) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction on a timely
basis or at all, including anticipated tax treatment, unforeseen liabilities, future capital expenditures, revenues, expenses, earnings,
the integration of the businesses of Rocket Lab and Iridium, synergies, economic performance, indebtedness, financial condition, losses,
future prospects, business and management strategies for the management, expansion and growth of Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s
businesses; (iv) Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s ability to implement their business strategies; (v) potential litigation relating
to the proposed transaction that could be instituted against Rocket Lab, Iridium or their respective directors, managers, or officers,
including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; (vi) the risk that disruptions from the proposed transaction will harm Rocket
Lab’s or Iridium’s businesses, including current plans and operations, or will otherwise divert management time from ongoing
business operations on transaction-related issues; (vii) the ability of Rocket Lab or Iridium to retain and hire key personnel; (viii)
potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction;
(ix) fluctuations in, and uncertainty as to the long-term value of, Rocket Lab or Iridium common stock (including as relating to the
risk that any announcements related to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of such stock); (x) legislative,
regulatory and economic developments affecting Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s businesses, including actions by government agencies
and third parties; (xi) general economic and market developments and conditions, potential changes to international trade relations,
geopolitical conflicts and effects from global pandemics, epidemics, or other public health crises; (xii) the evolving legal, regulatory
and tax regimes under which Rocket Lab and Iridium operate; (xiii) restrictions during the pendency of the proposed transaction that
may impact Rocket Lab’s or Iridium’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; (xiv) unexpected
costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; (xv) risks that any debt or other financing anticipated in connection
with the proposed transaction is not obtained or that such financing cannot be obtained on the anticipated timing or terms or unexpected
costs or expenses in connection therewith; and (xvi) the other risks and uncertainties, as described in the periodic reports that Rocket
Lab and Iridium file with the SEC. These risks, as well as other risks associated with the proposed transaction, are more fully discussed
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026 in connection with the proposed transaction.
Neither Rocket Lab nor Iridium assumes any obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether
as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities
and other applicable laws. Forward-looking statements included in this communication are made as of the date of this communication.
Item
9.01 Financial Statements and Exhibits.
(d)
Exhibits
Exhibit No.
Description
99.1
Press Release of Rocket
Lab Corporation dated September 15, 2026
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (embedded within the
Inline XBRL document).
SIGNATURES
Pursuant
to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by
the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.
ROCKET
LAB CORPORATION
Date:
September
15, 2026
By:
/s/
Adam Spice
Adam
Spice
Chief Financial Officer
----- g085951_ex99-1.htm -----
EX-99.1
2
g085951_ex99-1.htm
EXHIBIT 99.1
Exhibit
99.1
Rocket
Lab Fully Funds Iridium Acquisition, Including Completion of $1.94 Billion ATM
•
Iridium
Acquisition Now Fully Financed:
Rocket Lab completes the $1.944 billion At-The-Market
(ATM) equity offering, securing the required cash consideration (alongside available liquidity)
to fully fund its pending acquisition of Iridium Communications - expected to close in mid-2027,
pending regulatory approvals.
•
Cost-Effective
Debt Structure Secured:
Iridium amends its existing $1.775 billion credit
facility to permit the change of control, establishing long-term, cost-effective permanent
financing backed by Iridium’s strong free cash flow and a parent guarantee from Rocket
Lab USA.
•
Bridge
Facility Terminated:
Rocket Lab successfully cancels the initial $3.6B senior
secured bridge facility, de-risking the capital structure ahead of the targeted close of
the acquisition in mid-2027.
Long
Beach, California. September 15, 2026 –
Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or the “Company”),
a global leader in launch services and space systems, today announced it has successfully completed several critical milestones to fully
finance its pending acquisition of Iridium Communications Inc. (“Iridium” and such pending transaction, the “Iridium
Acquisition”).
ATM
Program Update
Rocket
Lab has completed its previously announced At-The-Market share sale (the “ATM Program”), raising approximately $1.944 billion
in gross proceeds through the issuance of 29.3 million shares (before commissions and offering expenses).
Rocket
Lab intends to use the net proceeds from the ATM Program to fund cash payments under the Iridium Acquisition. If the Company does not
consummate the Iridium Acquisition or if it has excess proceeds from the offering of shares under the ATM Program, the Company intends
to use the net proceeds to fund future growth, including potential future acquisitions, and for general corporate and working capital
purposes.
Change
of Control Consent and Amendment for Iridium Existing Credit Agreement
On
September 15, 2026, Iridium entered into an amendment (the “Change of Control Amendment”) to its existing term loan
facility for its outstanding $1.775 billion term loans (as of June 30, 2026) (the “Iridium Term Loan”) to obtain consent
from the requisite lenders to, among other things, amend the definition of “Change of Control” under the credit
agreement to carve out Rocket Lab’s pending acquisition of Iridium. As part of the Change of Control Amendment, Rocket Lab
USA, Inc., the Company’s primary operating subsidiary and anticipated parent company of Iridium, will provide an unsecured
guarantee of the Iridium Term Loan upon the closing of the Iridium Acquisition.
The
completion of the Change of Control Amendment will provide Rocket Lab with cost-effective, permanent financing upon the closing of the
Iridium Acquisition, supported by Iridium substantial free cash flow.
Termination
of Debt Commitment Letter
The
Iridium Term Loan, together with the proceeds raised to date under the ATM Program and other unrestricted cash and cash equivalents available
to the Company, represent an amount sufficient to pay the required cash consideration, repay certain Iridium indebtedness (other than
the Iridium Term Loan) and pay related fees and expenses at the closing of the Iridium Acquisition. In connection with the consummation
of the Change of Control Amendment the Company also terminated its $3.6 billion debt commitment for a senior secured debt bridge facility
it had entered into in connection with the Iridium Acquisition merger agreement on June 28, 2026.
The
completion of the Change of Control Amendment and the proceeds raised under the ATM Program is another significant milestone in the Company’s
pending acquisition of Iridium, which is expected to be completed in mid-2027.
Rocket
Lab Investor Relations
investors@rocketlabusa.com
About
Rocket Lab
Rocket
Lab (Nasdaq: RKLB) is an end-to-end space company delivering rockets, satellites, and spacecraft components for commercial, government,
and defense missions. Driven by its industry-leading small-lift rockets Electron and HASTE and its upcoming reusable Neutron medium-lift
rocket, Rocket Lab delivers reliable and responsive launch for the world’s most important missions from constellation deployment
to missile defense. Rocket Lab’s satellites and components have powered more than 1,700 missions in Earth orbit, as well as deep-space
exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Learn more at www.rocketlabcorp.com.
Additional
Information and Where to Find It
This
communication is being made in respect of a proposed transaction involving Rocket Lab Corporation (“Rocket Lab”) and
Iridium Communications Inc. (“Iridium”). In connection with the proposed transaction, Rocket Lab has filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a Registration Statement on Form S-4 that includes the proxy statement of
Iridium that also constitutes a prospectus of Rocket Lab. On August 26, 2026, the Registration Statement was declared effective,
Iridium filed the definitive proxy statement, and Rocket Lab filed the final prospectus. The definitive proxy statement/final
prospectus was sent to the stockholders of Iridium beginning on or about August 26, 2026, seeking their approval of certain
transaction-related proposals. This communication is not a substitute for the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus or any
other documents which Rocket Lab or Iridium may file with the SEC in connection with the proposed transaction.
The
definitive proxy statement/final prospectus and this communication are not offers to sell any securities, are not soliciting an offer
to buy any securities in any state where the offer and sale is not permitted and are not a solicitation of any vote or approval.
ROCKET
LAB AND IRIDIUM URGE INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM S-4, THE RELATED DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT/FINAL
PROSPECTUS INCLUDED THEREIN AND OTHER DOCUMENTS ROCKET LAB AND IRIDIUM FILE WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY BECAUSE THEY
CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.
Investors
and security holders can obtain these materials free of charge (when they become available) at the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.
Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Rocket Lab (when they become available) may be obtained free of charge on Rocket Lab’s
website at https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com/financial-information/sec-filings or by contacting Rocket Lab’s Investor Relations
Department at investors@rocketlabusa.com. Copies of documents filed with the SEC by Iridium (when they become available) may be obtained
free of charge on Iridium’s website at https://investor.iridium.com/sec-filings or by contacting Iridium’s Investor Relations
Department at investor.relations@iridium.com.
Participants
in the Solicitation
Robert
H. Niehaus, Louis M. Alterman, Thomas C. Canfield, Matthew J. Desch, Thomas J. Fitzpatrick, L. Anthony Frazier, Suzanne E. McBride, Eric
T. Olson, Kay N. Sears, Monique S. Shivanandan and Jacqueline E. Yeaney, all of whom are members of Iridium’s board of directors,
and Vincent J. O’Neill, Iridium’s chief financial officer, may be considered participants in Iridium’s solicitation.
Information regarding such participants, including their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is included
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Rocket Lab may also be deemed to be a participant
in Iridium’s solicitation; information regarding Rocket Lab is included in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed
with the SEC on August 26, 2026. Copies of these documents may be obtained, free of charge, from the SEC or Iridium as described in the
preceding paragraph.
Cautionary
Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This
communication contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These forward-looking
statements are based on Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s current expectations, estimates and projections about the proposed transaction
and the potential benefits thereof, their respective businesses and industries, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made
by Rocket Lab and Iridium, all of which are subject to change. In this context, forward-looking statements often address expected future
events, including future business and financial performance and financial condition. All forward-looking statements by their nature address
matters that involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control, and are not guarantees of future results, such as
statements about the consummation of the proposed transaction and the anticipated benefits thereof, expectations regarding regulatory
approvals, and intentions with respect to financing the transaction. These and other forward-looking statements are not guarantees of
future results and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those
expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual results
to differ materially from those indicated in such statements and, therefore, you should not place undue reliance on any such statements
and caution must be exercised in relying on forward-looking statements. Important risk factors that may cause such a difference include,
but are not limited to: (i) the completion of the proposed transaction on anticipated terms and timing, or at all, including obtaining
stockholder and regulatory approvals and satisfying other conditions to the completion of the transaction; (ii) the occurrence of any
event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, including the receipt by Iridium
of an unsolicited proposal from a third party; (iii) failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction on a timely
basis or at all, including anticipated tax treatment, unforeseen liabilities, future capital expenditures, revenues, expenses, earnings,
the integration of the businesses of Rocket Lab and Iridium, synergies, economic performance, indebtedness, financial condition, losses,
future prospects, business and management strategies for the management, expansion and growth of Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s
businesses; (iv) Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s ability to implement their business strategies; (v) potential litigation relating
to the proposed transaction that could be instituted against Rocket Lab, Iridium or their respective directors, managers, or officers,
including the effects of any outcomes related thereto; (vi) the risk that disruptions from the proposed transaction will harm Rocket
Lab’s or Iridium’s businesses, including current plans and operations, or will otherwise divert management time from ongoing
business operations on transaction-related issues; (vii) the ability of Rocket Lab or Iridium to retain and hire key personnel; (viii)
potential adverse reactions or changes to business relationships resulting from the announcement or completion of the proposed transaction;
(ix) fluctuations in, and uncertainty as to the long-term value of, Rocket Lab or Iridium common stock (including as relating to the
risk that any announcements related to the proposed transaction could have adverse effects on the market price of such stock); (x) legislative,
regulatory and economic developments affecting Rocket Lab’s and Iridium’s businesses, including actions by government agencies
and third parties; (xi) general economic and market developments and conditions, potential changes to international trade relations,
geopolitical conflicts and effects from global pandemics, epidemics, or other public health crises; (xii) the evolving legal, regulatory
and tax regimes under which Rocket Lab and Iridium operate; (xiii) restrictions during the pendency of the proposed transaction that
may impact Rocket Lab’s or Iridium’s ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; (xiv) unexpected
costs, charges or expenses resulting from the proposed transaction; (xv) risks that any debt or other financing anticipated in connection
with the proposed transaction is not obtained or that such financing cannot be obtained on the anticipated timing or terms or unexpected
costs or expenses in connection therewith; and (xvi) the other risks and uncertainties, as described in the periodic reports that Rocket
Lab and Iridium file with the SEC. These risks, as well as other risks associated with the proposed transaction, are more fully discussed
in the definitive proxy statement/final prospectus filed with the SEC on August 26, 2026 in connection with the proposed transaction.
Neither Rocket Lab nor Iridium assumes any obligation to publicly provide revisions or updates to any forward-looking statements, whether
as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, should circumstances change, except as otherwise required by securities
and other applicable laws. Forward-looking statements included in this communication are made as of the date of this communication.
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