Rocket Lab USA 'A'

Rocket Lab shares rose about 6% after the FCC accepted the license-transfer applications for its planned acquisition of Iridium, opening a public-comment window but not approving the deal. SpaceX filed comments asking the FCC to review Iridium's conduct toward rival operators, adding a competitor’s scrutiny to the docket. Rocket Lab said it raised $1.94 billion in equity, resolving financing concerns; Iridium shares were largely unchanged because the deal’s fixed terms anchor the target price. The transaction still requires a shareholder vote and regulatory clearance, with the public-comment period the near-term focus. » More on finance.yahoo.com

Rocket Lab has filed a protest with the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) against NASA’s award of a $700 million contract for a Mars communications satellite to Blue Origin. The company argues the decision violates federal procurement standards and that Rocket Lab’s technical evaluation was inconsistent and flawed. Rocket Lab is seeking a review to ensure compliance with standards for critical Mars infrastructure. » More on heise.de

Rocket Lab has completed a capital raise by placing 29.3 million shares for $1.944 billion. The proceeds, together with existing cash and an Iridium term loan, will be used to finance the cash purchase price for the proposed acquisition of Iridium. Iridium amended its credit agreement (about $1.775 billion outstanding) to enable the change of control; Rocket Lab USA will provide an unsecured guarantee for the term loan upon closing. Rocket Lab also cites a committed senior secured bridge financing of $3.6 billion and expects the deal to close in mid‑2027, subject to regulatory approvals. » More on de.investing.com