Rocket Lab Eyes Big Defense Opportunities After Acquisition

Specifically Rocket Lab is positioning itself for significant growth in the defense sector through its recent acquisition. This move strengthens their capabilities and opens doors to new contracts and partnerships within the defense industry.
Indeed the acquisition of Geost a leader in electro-optical and infrared payloads marks Rocket Lab’s formal entry into satellite payload manufacturing, empowering them to deliver end-to-end space systems for national security.

Strategic Acquisition Details

Specifically the acquisition brings advanced technologies and expertise into Rocket Lab’s portfolio making it better equipped to deliver comprehensive solutions to defense clients.
Consequently Rocket Lab is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging defense opportunities, expand its service offerings and compete for larger defense contracts.Rocket Lab recently gained access to the U.S. Space Force’s launch vendor pool under the National Security Space Launch NSSL Phase 3 program. It is now eligible to compete for multi-billion-dollar defense contracts.

Strategic Acquisitions and Enhanced Capabilities

The company acquired Geost for $275 million, enabling it to develop in-house optical systems such as electro-optical and infrared sensors. These upgrades expand its satellite payload delivery services. GeostAInvestIt also secured a $515 million contract with the Space Development Agency to build 18 tracking satellites.

Hypersonic and Global Cargo Mission Wins

Rocket Lab’s HASTE launch vehicle was selected for two major hypersonic programs: the U.S. Air Force’s $46 billion EWAAC initiative and the U.K. Ministry of Defence’s £1 billion hypersonic framework. Additionally, the company earned a contract from the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory for a Rocket Cargo demo mission using its Neutron vehicle to test reentry and payload delivery.

Driving Growth Underpinned by Strong Financials

Rocket Lab posted record Q2 2025 revenue of $144.5 million, marking a 36 % year-over-year increase, with $97.9 million from defense and space systems. These wins and its vertical integration strategy spanning launch services to payload sensors underscore its growing value to defense clients.