Viasat acquisition of Inmarsat gets final green light

Viasat can finally complete its acquisition of Inmarsat, following the announcement that the European Commission (EC) has unconditionally approved Viasat’s acquisition of Inmarsat.

Regulatory approval has already been forthcoming from the UK and the US. The U.K. Competition & Markets Authority gave clearance on 9 May 2023 and the U.S. Federal Communications Commission on 19 May 2023.

The two companies say they will now “work to expedite completion of the transaction, which is expected to close by the end of this month”.

Inmarsat’s CEO, Rajeev Suri (right), will stand down on completion of the sale when he will become a Board Director. Inmarsat Chair, Andrew Sukawaty will also stand down from his position on completion and will join the Viasat Board of Directors.

“On behalf of our entire board, I want to thank Rajeev for significantly improving our business performance and enhancing our leadership in global mobility,” said Sukawaty.

“In a fragmented industry needing consolidation, he delivered a first-mover advantage for Inmarsat through its combination with Viasat, took a strong position on the critical issue of space sustainability, and supported the development of the sector through his role as Chair of the Global Satellite Operators Association.”

See also: Inmarsat trials Orchestra maritime mesh for ship-to-ship connectivity