LONG BEACH, Calif., Aug. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB), a globa...


LONG BEACH, Calif., Aug.  04, 2026  (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB), a global leader in launch services and space systems, today announced it has been awarded a $397 million contract by the United States Space Force under the Space-Based Airborne Moving Target Indicator (SB-AMTI) program. The initiative, led by the Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) for Space-Based Sensing and Targeting (SBST), aims to enhance global security by deploying a resilient space-based system to detect and track airborne threats in real time.  Under the contract, Rocket Lab will develop, launch, and operate multiple advanced Flatellites — a next-generation flat satellite design optimized for large constellations — with space-based sensors and low latency, high bandwidth communication links. Rocket Lab will launch the Flatellites on the Company’s upcoming Neutron rocket and operate them from secure facilities, providing data and track information to the Space Force. An option for additional Flatellites is included in the total contract value. The Flatellite spacecraft and Neutron launch service will enable vendor diversity in the SB-AMTI program and increased capabilities for deploying the SB-AMTI architecture, which integrates cutting-edge sensors, secure communications, and robust ground processing systems to provide the U.S. military with persistent, real-time battlespace awareness in contested environments.  By integrating launch, spacecraft, and mission operations, the contract award is a strong recognition of Rocket Lab’s strategic vertical integration model that delivers rare end-to-end space capabilities.  “Rocket Lab is honored to play a key role in the SB-AMTI program, which is critical to expanding the Space Force’s layered, resilient tracking architecture,” said Sir Peter Beck, Rocket Lab founder and CEO. “Our vertically integrated, constellation-class satellite capabilities, mission operations, and launch services uniquely position us to deliver innovative solutions that meet the urgent needs of the Space Force. We are proud to contribute to the deployment of a resilient space-based sensing layer that will enhance the Joint Force’s ability to operate in contested airspace.”  Rocket Lab’s selection builds on its proven track record of supporting U.S. government and defense initiatives, including successful missions for the Space Force, National Reconnaissance Office, DARPA, and NASA. With its vertically integrated approach — spanning satellite design, manufacturing, launch, and on-orbit operations — Rocket Lab ensures the rapid and reliable delivery of critical space systems.  About SB-AMTI: For decades, the military has relied heavily on terrestrial and airborne sensors to track moving targets in the air. However, deploying these traditional sensing aircraft into highly contested environments is becoming increasingly unviable, as those platforms face unprecedented risks from increasingly sophisticated anti-access/area-denial systems. Spearheaded by the Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) for Space-Based Sensing and Targeting (SBST), this ambitious initiative is designed to provide the Joint Force with persistent vigilance over the battlefield, tracking airborne threats continuously from space.  Designed as a complex "system-of-systems," SB-AMTI isn't just a single satellite. It is a highly integrated architecture encompassing advanced space-based sensors, artificial intelligence-driven resilient ground processing and secure communication links. By leveraging AI to filter clutter and identify targets hidden within massive data streams, the ultimate goal is to provide warfighters with continuous oversight and real-time tracking data, eliminating operational blind spots regardless of what is happening in the airspace below.  Rocket Lab Media ContactMatt McKinneymedia@rocketlabusa.com  About Rocket LabRocket Lab (Nasdaq: RKLB) is an end-to-end space company delivering rockets, satellites, and spacecraft components for commercial, government, and defense missions. Driven by its industry-leading small-lift rockets Electron and HASTE and its upcoming reusable Neutron medium-lift rocket, Rocket Lab delivers reliable and responsive launch for the world’s most important missions from constellation deployment to missile defense. Rocket Lab’s satellites and components have powered more than 1,700 missions in Earth orbit, as well as deep-space exploration of the Moon, Mars, and beyond. Learn more at www.rocketlabcorp.com.  Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. We intend such forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding our launch and space systems operations, launch schedule and window, safe and repeatable access to space, Neutron development, operational expansion and business strategy, the deployment and delivery of Flatellite satellites, our ability to meet contract milestones and timelines, and the SB-AMTI program deployment, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “potential,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “strategy,” “future,” “could,” “would,” “project,” “plan,” “target,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, though not all forward-looking statements use these words or expressions. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the factors, risks and uncertainties included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and the Investor Relations section of our website at https://investors.rocketlabcorp.com which could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. Any such forward-looking statements represent management’s estimates as of the date of this press release. While we may elect to update such forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we disclaim any obligation to do so, even if subsequent events cause our views to change.  A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8f603e89-a7b3-441e-91a8-63f7b1106559   
            
        
                
                        Rocket Lab Awarded $397 Million Contract to Build and Launch Flatellites for U.S. Space Force’s Spac...

                Artist impression of Rocket Lab Flatellite spacecraft inside a Neutron launch vehicle fairing.
            

        
    

RKLB

Rocket Lab Awarded $397 Million Contract to Build and Launch Flatellites for U.S. Space Force's Space-Based Airborne Moving Target Indicator Program

Rocket Lab wins $397M Space Force contract to deploy Flatellites

<section class="insight" data-version="1">
  <section data-block="information">
    <h3>Information</h3>
    <p>LONG BEACH, Calif., Aug. 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB), a globa...</p>
  </section>

  <section data-block="ai-summary-paragraph">
    <h3>AI Summary</h3>
    <p>Rocket Lab has secured a $397 million SB-AMTI contract from the Space Force to design, launch, and operate multiple Flatellite satellites on the Neutron launcher, with an option for additional units. The award underscores RKLB&#039;s vertically integrated model and could boost backlog and near-term revenue visibility, contingent on milestone progress and program timing amid defense spending dynamics.</p>
  </section>

  <section data-block="ai-summary-bullets">
    <h3>Key Points</h3>
    <ul><li>Rocket Lab wins a $397M Space Force SB-AMTI contract. It will develop, launch, and operate Flatellites on Neutron.</li><li>Contract strengthens Rocket Lab&#039;s vertical integration and backlog with option for more Flatellites.</li><li>Flatellites use AI-enabled sensors and secure links for real-time tracking and data delivery.</li><li>Award signals government validation of RKLB&#039;s defense capabilities; milestones and timing critical for revenue.</li></ul>
  </section>

  <section data-block="companies-mentioned">
    <h3>Companies Mentioned</h3>
    <ul><li><strong>Rocket Lab (RKLB)</strong>: Primary beneficiary; contract validates vertical integration and could boost backlog and revenue visibility.</li><li><strong>Space Force (N/A)</strong>: Government sponsor of SB-AMTI; program tailwinds depend on funding cycles and deployment milestones.</li><li><strong>PAE (PAE)</strong>: Program lead for SB-AMTI; potential contractor relationships and downstream opportunities.</li></ul>
  </section>

  <section data-block="category">
    <h3>Corporate Developments</h3>
    <p>Category: Corporate Developments. The contract represents a tangible government engagement that affects RKLB&#039;s revenue visibility and strategic positioning in defense space systems, aligning with its vertically integrated model.</p>
  </section>

  <section data-block="market-moving">
    <h3>Market-Moving</h3>
    <ul><li>Space Force SB-AMTI award expands RKLB defense backlog and visibility.</li><li>Option for additional Flatellites could lift total contract value beyond $397M.</li><li>Defense spending tailwinds may improve RKLB valuation and investor sentiment.</li><li>Success hinges on Neutron launch readiness and timely milestone execution.</li></ul>
  </section>

  <section data-block="key-facts">
    <h3>Key Facts</h3>
    <ul><li>Contract value: $397 million.</li><li>Program: Space-Based Airborne Moving Target Indicator (SB-AMTI) under SBST.</li><li>Deliverables: Flatellite satellites and Neutron launch service with on-orbit operations.</li><li>Date: August 4, 2026.</li><li>Includes option for additional Flatellites.</li></ul>
  </section>

  <section data-block="trading-thesis">
    <h3>Trading Thesis</h3>
    <p>Near-term upside from backlog and revenue visibility; monitor Neutron readiness and milestone cadence over the next 6–12 months.</p>
  </section>
</section>


<article>
  <section>
    <h2>Rocket Lab Wins $397 Million SB-AMTI Contract with U.S. Space Force</h2>
    <p>
      <strong>Rocket Lab Corporation</strong> (Nasdaq: <strong>RKLB</strong>) announced it has been awarded a <strong>$397 million</strong> contract by the United States Space Force under the Space-Based Airborne Moving Target Indicator (SB-AMTI) program. The award, dated Aug. 4, 2026, positions <strong>RKLB</strong> to develop, launch, and operate a constellation of Flatellites with space-based sensors and secure, high-bandwidth communications. The SB-AMTI program is led by the Portfolio Acquisition Executive (PAE) for Space-Based Sensing and Targeting (SBST) and aims to deliver real-time tracking of airborne threats from space.
    </p>
  </section>

  <section>
    <h2>Contract Details and Deliverables</h2>
    <p>
      Under the award, <strong>RKLB</strong> will deploy multiple advanced Flatellites—an upcoming flat satellite design optimized for large constellations—equipped with space-based sensors and low-latency communications links. The company will launch the Flatellites on its forthcoming Neutron rocket and operate them from secured facilities, providing data and track information to the Space Force. An option for additional Flatellites is included in the total contract value.
    </p>
    <p>
      The Flatellite spacecraft and Neutron launch service are designed to enable vendor diversity within the SB-AMTI program and to expand the capabilities of the SB-AMTI architecture. This architecture integrates cutting-edge sensors, secure communications, and robust ground processing systems to deliver persistent, real-time battlespace awareness in contested environments.
    </p>
    <ul>
      <li>Contract value: <strong>$397 million</strong></li>
      <li>Program: Space-Based Airborne Moving Target Indicator (SB-AMTI)</li>
      <li>Platform: Flatellites with space-based sensors</li>
      <li>Launch vehicle: Neutron</li>
      <li>Delivery: end-to-end, including launch, on-orbit operations, and data processing</li>
      <li>Option for additional Flatellites included</li>
    </ul>
  </section>

  <section>
    <h2>Strategic Implications for SB-AMTI and U.S. Defense Capabilities</h2>
    <p>
      The SB-AMTI program is described as a complex system-of-systems designed to provide the Joint Force with persistent, real-time oversight of the battlespace from space. By integrating advanced sensors, AI-driven ground processing, and secure communications, the architecture aims to eliminate operational blind spots in contested airspace.
    </p>
    <p>
      <em>Designed as a highly integrated architecture:</em> the SB-AMTI system leverages AI to filter clutter and identify targets hidden within massive data streams, enabling continuous tracking and real-time situational awareness for warfighters.
    </p>
  </section>

  <section>
    <h2>Leadership Perspective</h2>
    <p>
      <blockquote>
        "Rocket Lab is honored to play a key role in the SB-AMTI program, which is critical to expanding the Space Force’s layered, resilient tracking architecture. Our vertically integrated, constellation-class satellite capabilities, mission operations, and launch services uniquely position us to deliver innovative solutions that meet the urgent needs of the Space Force. We are proud to contribute to the deployment of a resilient space-based sensing layer that will enhance the Joint Force’s ability to operate in contested airspace."
      </blockquote>
    </p>
  </section>

  <section>
    <h2>About Rocket Lab and RKLB's Defense Experience</h2>
    <p>
      <strong>RKLB</strong> has a proven track record of supporting U.S. government and defense initiatives, including missions for the Space Force, National Reconnaissance Office, DARPA, and NASA. With a vertically integrated approach spanning satellite design, manufacturing, launch, and on-orbit operations, <strong>RKLB</strong> emphasizes rapid and reliable delivery of critical space systems.
    </p>
  </section>

  <section>
    <h2>About SB-AMTI and the Mission Context</h2>
    <p>
      For decades, the military has relied on terrestrial and airborne sensors to track moving targets in the air. However, deploying traditional sensing aircraft into highly contested environments faces increasing risks from advanced anti-access/area-denial systems. SB-AMTI, led by the SBST, seeks persistent vigilance from space—tracking airborne threats continuously from space through a system-of-systems approach that combines space-based sensors, AI-driven ground processing, and secure communications.
    </p>
  </section>

  <section>
    <h2>About Rocket Lab and Its Mission Profile</h2>
    <p>
      Rocket Lab (Nasdaq: <strong>RKLB</strong>) is an end-to-end space company delivering rockets, satellites, and spacecraft components for commercial, government, and defense missions. Driven by its small-lift Electron and HASTE rockets, and its upcoming reusable Neutron medium-lift vehicle, Rocket Lab provides reliable launch services for constellation deployment and missile defense missions. Its satellites and components have powered more than <strong>1,700</strong> missions in Earth orbit and deep-space exploration.
    </p>
    <p>
      Learn more at <a href="http://www.rocketlabcorp.com">www.rocketlabcorp.com</a>.
    </p>
  </section>

  <section>
    <h2>Investor and Market Context</h2>
    <ul>
      <li>Stock symbol coverage: RKLB is the primary ticker for press releases and investor communications.</li>
      <li>Business model emphasis: vertical integration across satellite design, manufacturing, launch, and on-orbit operations.</li>
      <li>Strategic impact: strengthens RKLB's role as a key provider of end-to-end space capabilities for defense programs.</li>
    </ul>
  </section>
</article>

Rocket Lab has secured a $397 million SB-AMTI contract from the Space Force to design, launch, and operate multiple Flatellite satellites on the Neutron launcher, with an option for additional units. The award underscores RKLB's vertically integrated model and could boost backlog and near-term revenue visibility, contingent on milestone progress and program timing amid defense spending dynamics.

News insight

Rocket Lab Awarded $397 Million Contract to Build and Launch Flatellites for U.S. Space Force's Space-Based Airborne Moving Target Indicator Program

AI summary

Sentiment rationale

Key facts

Corporate Developments