Rocket Lab Wins U.S. Space Force Launch Contract

Ibadan, 10 April 2024. – Rocket Lab USA, Inc. has announced it has won a $14.49 million task order from the U.S. Space Force (USSF) to launch an Electron mission from Launch Complex 2. The mission, called Space Test Program-30 (STP-S30), falls under the Space Systems Command (SSC) Assured Access to Space organization and is part of Orbital Services Program-4 (OSP-4).

The dedicated Electron launch will tentatively take place within 24 months from contract award and will lift off from Launch Complex 2, a dedicated pad for the Electron rocket at Virginia Spaceport Authority’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport within the NASA Wallops Flight Facility on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. STP-S30 is a complex mission that will deliver research experiments and technology demonstrations to orbit for the DoD and contribute to future space systems development. The projected primary payload, DISKSat, will demonstrate sustained very low earth orbit (VLEO) flight and test a unique, 1-meter diameter, disk-shaped satellite bus that is designed to increase on-orbit persistence.

Speaking on the award, Rocket Lab founder and CEO Peter Beck said, “Flexible, responsive, and reliable launch is critical to ensuring resilient space capabilities for the nation, and we’re proud to deliver it to the Space Force once again with Electron.” The CEO also added, “After more than 40 successful launches from pads spanning both hemispheres, we’ve delivered time and time again for DoD, national security, and commercial space users alike, cementing Electron’s position as the leading small launch solution globally. We’re excited to demonstrate this unique combination of mature proven execution, speed, and agility for STP-S30.”

Rocket Lab is also currently working closely with the USSF for the development of the Company’s new medium-lift vehicle, Neutron through a $24.35 million contract with SSC to support the development of Neutron’s upper stage.