Rocket Lab USA (Nasdaq: RKLB) agreed to acquire Mynaric, a leading provider of laser-based optical communications terminals for space applications. Rocket Lab has signed a non-binding term sheet with Mynaric’s lenders to acquire 100% ownership, pending completion of Mynaric’s ongoing financial restructuring under Germany’s StaRUG process. Mynaric specializes in advanced optical communication terminals that facilitate high-speed, secure, and reliable satellite-to-satellite links critical for next-generation constellations.
The proposed acquisition aligns strategically with Rocket Lab’s vision to offer end-to-end space services—from launch vehicles and satellite manufacturing to component supply and constellation management. Mynaric’s optical terminals are already integrated into Rocket Lab’s satellite contracts, including a $515 million deal with the U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) for the Tranche 2 Transport Layer-Beta, underscoring the strategic importance of this transaction. Rocket Lab expects this acquisition to significantly enhance its satellite components portfolio, strengthen its vertical integration strategy, and position the company as a major supplier in the growing optical communications market.
With an established presence in Europe and key relationships with government and commercial space entities, Mynaric brings extensive intellectual property, manufacturing capabilities, and a committed customer backlog to Rocket Lab. This acquisition will enable Rocket Lab to scale Mynaric’s laser-based terminals production, aiming to provide customers with high-quality, affordable satellite communication solutions at volume. If completed, the $100+ million deal would offer Rocket Lab a strategic European manufacturing hub in Munich, Germany, and significantly boost its international market presence.
Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Munich, Germany, Mynaric specializes in laser communication terminals, enabling secure high-bandwidth links for satellites and airborne platforms. Mynaric’s core optical intersatellite links are critical for satellite constellations seeking high-speed, secure communication without reliance on ground infrastructure. Major customers include government defense organizations, commercial constellation operators, and prime aerospace contractors.
• Rocket Lab to acquire 100% ownership of Mynaric following completion of StaRUG restructuring proceedings under German law.
• Acquisition includes Mynaric’s intellectual property, manufacturing assets, optical product inventory, and secured customer contracts.
• Transaction initial purchase price set at approximately $100 million, with potential additional performance-based earn-outs totaling another $100 million.
• Mynaric’s optical communication terminals already integrated in Rocket Lab’s $515M contract with the U.S. SDA.
• Acquisition would establish Rocket Lab’s European presence in Munich, supporting growth opportunities in Europe’s space sector.
• Mynaric technology addresses rising demand from AI-driven constellations and data-intensive communication needs.
• Rocket Lab aims to scale Mynaric’s technology production, reducing lead times and driving down costs.
Rocket Lab founder and CEO Peter Beck said, “Rocket Lab is pursuing every part of the space value chain. We launch our own rockets, we build satellites in constellation volumes, and now we’re closing in on the final step and most valuable part of the space economy—operating our own constellations to provide data and services from orbit. Acquiring Mynaric strengthens our satellite communications capability and supports this vision.”
