Rocket Lab Targets 12 Hypersonic Test Launches as US Pushes Missile Testing
Rocket Lab Corporation (RKLB) climbed nearly 1% in overnight trading following plans to conduct 12 hypersonic test launches this year. The stock had dropped 2.27% during regular trading on Tuesday to close at $64.22, marking its fifth consecutive session in the red. Shares remain down approximately 8% year to date.
The test campaign utilizes the company's Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron, known as HASTE. Derived from the Electron rocket, HASTE provides frequent suborbital launch capabilities for experimental defense payloads weighing up to 700 kilograms at speeds above 7.5 kilometers per second. Defense agencies are seeking faster and lower-cost testing methods as traditional hypersonic missile developments carry costs of $40 million to $70 million per unit.
Rocket Lab continues to expand its hypersonic testing footprint through major military and defense awards. Key contracts include a $190 million deal for 20 HASTE launches over four years, a $30 million contract with Anduril for three flights, and a $266 million U.S. Space Force agreement for up to 18 missions scheduled to begin no earlier than late 2026.
Key points
- Rocket Lab Corporation (RKLB) stock climbed nearly 1% overnight after announcing 12 planned hypersonic tests this year.
- The stock dropped 2.27% during regular Tuesday trading to $64.22 and is down 8% year-to-date.
- The HASTE suborbital vehicle carries payloads up to 700 kilograms at speeds exceeding 7.5 kilometers per second.
- Recent deals include a $190 million contract for 20 HASTE flights and a $266 million Space Force contract.
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Why did Rocket Lab stock rise in overnight trading?
Rocket Lab stock rose nearly 1% overnight after executives announced plans to conduct 12 hypersonic test launches this year to accelerate defense technology development.
What is Rocket Lab HASTE vehicle?
HASTE is a suborbital test-launch vehicle derived from the Electron rocket that carries experimental payloads up to 700 kilograms at speeds over 7.5 kilometers per second for hypersonic testing.
What major defense contracts has Rocket Lab won for HASTE?
Rocket Lab signed a $190 million deal for 20 HASTE flights, a $30 million agreement with Anduril, and a $266 million contract with the U.S. Space Force for up to 18 suborbital launches.