Rocket Lab Advances Hypersonic Technology with Successful Suborbital Mission

Rocket Lab USA, Inc., a global leader in launch services and space systems, recently completed a milestone suborbital mission to test hypersonic technology for the U.S. Department of Defense. This mission, conducted under the Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonics Test Bed (MACH-TB) project, marks a significant step in advancing Hypersonic flight testing in the United States.

Rocket Lab’s innovative launch capabilities, optimised for large payloads, were integral to the project, which was awarded by the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Crane. Utilizing the Strategic and Spectrum Missions Advanced Resilient Trusted Systems (S2MARTS) Other Transaction Authority (OTA), the initiative aims to accelerate the maturation of hypersonic technologies. Rocket Lab also designed, manufactured, assembled and integrated the experimental hypersonic instrumentation, which was launched on this mission, but on a highly accelerated timeline.

George Rumford, Director of the Department of Defense Test Resource Management Center (TRMC), emphasised the value of commercial partnerships, noting that frequent and affordable tests are critical to advancing hypersonic development. This leap showcases the company’s commitment to innovation and ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions for national defense.

With a 55% year-on-year revenue growth and expanding partnerships, Rocket Lab is cementing its role as a strategic player in the aerospace and defence sectors, pushing the boundaries of hypersonic innovation.