Viasat to acquire Inmarsat in $7.3B transaction

Viasat Inc. announced today it will acquire Inmarsat, and the two global satellite communications companies have reached a definitive agreement for the deal, valued at $7.3 billion.

"The combination will create a leading global communications innovator with enhanced scale and scope to affordably, securely and reliably connect the world," Viasat said in a press release. "The complementary assets and resources of the new organization will enable the availability of advanced new services in mobile and fixed segments, driving greater customer choice in broadband communications and narrowband services."

The integrated company will create an "advanced architecture" that features the satellite, spectrum and ground-based assets from both companies, the release states, noting that Viasat's experience providing residential and aerospace connectivity as well as defense communications services will be enhanced by Inmarsat's "exceptional presence in the growing global mobility segment."

The companies expect to finalize the transaction late next year following approval from Viasat stockholders.