Rocket Lab faces SpaceX opposition over Iridium merger

SpaceX has formally requested that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) scrutinize Rocket Lab’s $8 billion acquisition of Iridium. The move follows a dispute regarding radio spectrum usage. Iridium has previously challenged SpaceX’s plans for Starlink “gateway” facilities, arguing that the proposed use of specific frequency bands would cause interference with its own systems.

In a letter to the FCC, SpaceX accused Iridium of engaging in anticompetitive behavior, claiming the company has filed over 50 petitions in eight months to block competitors from deploying next-generation satellite services. SpaceX alleges these actions are intended to delay service improvements for consumers rather than address legitimate technical risks.

Separately, Rocket Lab Chief Operations Officer Frank Klein reported a non-discretionary sale of 45,692 shares, valued at approximately $3.2 million, to satisfy tax withholding obligations related to restricted stock units. Following the sale, Klein maintains a direct ownership of 961,295 shares.