Rocket Lab will manufacture 18 satellites equipped with advanced sensors to track and detect missile threats. "Demand for resilient, scalable and affordable space systems continues to grow, and this award demonstrates that Rocket Lab is uniquely positioned to lead the charge in delivering solutions that meet the needs of national security," Rocket Lab founder and chief executive Peter Beck said. "This contract underscores that Rocket Lab's vertically integrated approach isn't just a competitive advantage - we're enabling a fundamental shift in how national security space programs are executed." Rocket Lab already had a US$515m (NZ$869m) satellite contract. The client is Q-shu Pioneers of Space, a Japan-based Earth-imaging company, and the launch will be streamed live on Rocket Lab's YouTube channel.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 20, 2025 03:41 UTC