Rocket Lab advances US defense with major milestone in spacecraft constellation development

Rocket Lab advances US defense with major milestone in spacecraft constellation development
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jan 10, 2025

Rocket Lab National Security LLC ("Rocket Lab" or "the Company"), a global leader in launch services and space systems, has successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for the Space Development Agency's (SDA) Tranche 2 Transport Layer-Beta (T2TL-Beta) program. This key achievement propels Rocket Lab closer to delivering 18 advanced data transport satellites as part of the U.S. Department of Defense's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA).

The PDR milestone clears the way for Rocket Lab to advance into the detailed design phase of its $515 million firm-fixed-price contract awarded in early 2024. Under the agreement, Rocket Lab will oversee the design, integration, testing, and commissioning of the T2TL-Beta satellites. Collaborating with a strong team of payload providers, the Company will deliver essential capabilities to the PWSA, a state-of-the-art low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network supporting secure, low-latency communications and missile tracking for defense operations.

The multi-day PDR process thoroughly evaluated the satellite design to confirm it meets stringent mission criteria. The review encompassed mission architecture, the space vehicle, launch logistics, operations, and ground systems. Additional assessments included integration and testing plans, technology readiness strategies, and operational concepts.

"This milestone underscores Rocket Lab's commitment to delivering world-class satellite solutions for national defense," said President and CEO of Rocket Lab National Security, Brad Clevenger. "Our vertically integrated approach and innovative technologies enable us to meet demanding requirements with precision and efficiency. With this achievement, we are one step closer to deploying advanced satellite systems that will strengthen U.S. defense capabilities in space."

The 18 satellites will feature Rocket Lab's vertically integrated components, including solar panels, composite structures, star trackers, reaction wheels, radios, flight and ground software, avionics, and launch dispensers. This extensive vertical integration ensures Rocket Lab maintains control over its supply chain, optimizing cost, schedule, and quality.