Rocket Lab announced a $190 million contract with the U.S. Department of War to conduct 20 hypersonic test flights using its HASTE launch vehicle under the MACH‑TB 2.0 program. The deal is the company’s largest single launch contract to date and adds 20 missions to its launch backlog.
The contract’s 20 flights will be flown on HASTE, a modified Electron rocket that has achieved a 100 % mission‑success rate. The program is part of the Department of War’s MACH‑TB 2.0 initiative, which seeks to accelerate hypersonic testing and development for national‑security purposes.
The agreement pushes Rocket Lab’s total backlog beyond $2 billion, up from $1.85 billion at the end of 2025. The company’s record 2025 revenue of $602 million and record quarterly revenue of $180 million—an increase of 38 % year‑over‑year—underscore the financial strength that underpins the new contract.
The revenue stream from the contract will help fund the development of Rocket Lab’s Neutron launch vehicle, whose maiden flight is targeted for Q4 2026 after a Stage 1 tank rupture delayed earlier plans. The company’s strategy to support national‑security programs through hypersonic testing aligns with its broader goal of delivering responsive, mass‑produced launch services.
"Our advanced technology, responsive launch schedules, and mass production of our HASTE hypersonic rockets are enabling faster progress across a range of hypersonic experiments by our government and industry partners, and this latest contract is another proud moment for the team that builds the strength and resiliency of the United States' aerospace efforts," said Sir Peter Beck, Rocket Lab founder and CEO. "Our expanded partnership with MACH‑TB and the Department of War strengthens America's national security and delivers reliable, modern hypersonic capabilities with speed and affordability."
revised_sentiment_rating":3} }
The content on EveryTicker is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.