RKLB
New contract, bigger launch backlog
Rocket Lab just won a $266 million firm-fixed-price contract from the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command for suborbital launch work. Translation: the company isn’t just talking about lift-off anymore — it’s getting paid to do it, and that tends to make Wall Street sit up straighter.
What’s in the deal?
The contract covers:
- 12 suborbital launch vehicles
- 6 optional additional launches
- Work at the Pacific Spaceport Complex in Alaska
- Completion expected by December 31, 2028
The Space Force is also obligating $112 million in fiscal 2025 R&D and test funds right away, which helps make this more than just a ceremonial handshake in a hangar.
Why investors care
Rocket Lab shares popped 5.89% in after-hours trading to $73.19, because contracts like this do two big things: they add revenue visibility and they reinforce that Rocket Lab is becoming a real defense contractor, not just a space-stock daydream.
Big picture: in a market that loves anything with a launchpad and a government check, this is the kind of headline that can keep the momentum crowd very, very entertained.