SpaceX has asked the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to scrutinize Iridium Communications' conduct during the regulatory review of its pending $8 billion acquisition by Rocket Lab. While SpaceX stated it does not oppose the merger, it accused Iridium of a history of anticompetitive behavior by using regulatory filings to delay competitors.
The request stems from an ongoing dispute over potential radio spectrum interference. Iridium has raised concerns that SpaceX's proposed next-generation Starlink gateways could disrupt its satellite network operations, a claim SpaceX contests. Iridium has indicated it is in coordination talks with SpaceX and hopes for a resolution. The filing introduces a new layer of uncertainty as the deal, announced in June, heads for a shareholder vote in September.