Iridium Completes Acquisition of Aireon

Global satellite services provider Iridium Communications today completed its acquisition of space-based ADS-B provider Aireon. The purchase adds the only space-based ADS-B air traffic surveillance system to Iridium’s satellite communications and positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) network.

Aireon will continue operating as a wholly owned Iridium subsidiary. Don Thoma remains Aireon CEO and will report to Iridium CEO Matt Desch.

“What began as a bold vision more than a decade ago has become a foundational capability for global air traffic management, delivering real-time surveillance and operational intelligence on a truly global scale,” Desch said. “Together, we will continue investing in the technologies and innovations that we believe will make aviation safer, more efficient, and more resilient for decades to come.”

The acquisition combines Aireon’s space-based surveillance and aviation intelligence services with Iridium’s satellite communications network and PNT capabilities. Iridium said the combined platform is intended to deliver real-time visibility and operational data to aviation stakeholders globally.

This news comes on the heels of last month’s announcement that Rocket Lab has signed an agreement to acquire Iridium Communications, with the deal expected to close by mid-2027.