spacetoday.net: Rocket Lab signs largest launch contract in its history

Posted: Sun, May 10, 2026, 7:49 AM ET (1149 GMT)
Rocket Lab Neutron (Rocket Lab)

Rocket Lab announced Thursday the largest launch contract in its history. The company signed a contract with a confidential customer for five Neutron and three Electron launches between 2026 and 2029. The company did not disclose the contract's value but said it sold the launches at average prices for those vehicles and the total contract value exceeded the $190 million award for 20 launches of its HASTE suborbital vehicle it announced in March. Rocket Lab says it is still planning a first launch of Neutron in the fourth quarter but acknowledged that is an "aggressive schedule." Rocket Lab also announced it would acquire space robotics company Motiv Space Systems, which produces components ranging from the robotic arm on the Perseverance Mars rover to solar array drive assemblies. The acquisition helps Rocket Lab vertically integrate its satellite manufacturing supply chain.