Rocket Lab Clears Major Milestone for Space Force's Rapid-Response Mission
Company Completes Integration Review for VICTUS HAZE Spacecraft
A critical systems integration review has been completed by Rocket Lab National Security for the U.S. Space Force's VICTUS HAZE mission, marking a major step forward in the military's effort to rapidly deploy satellites for national security purposes. The milestone was achieved in May, just 15 months after the contract was awarded.
"VICTUS HAZE is about more than responsive launch, it's about ensuring the U.S. can act at the speed of need in a contested space domain."
Brad Clevenger, Rocket Lab National Security
The systems integration review confirmed that all spacecraft components, systems and software were ready for final integration and testing. Following the completion of this review, Rocket Lab finished spacecraft integration and the vehicle is now entering final testing phases.
VICTUS HAZE is the second iteration of the Space Force's Tactically Responsive Space-3 mission designed to launch a prototype satellite within 24 hours of a "go" order and perform up-close on-orbit inspection of a simulated threatening spacecraft. The mission is part of Space Systems Command's Tactically Responsive Space program, led by Space Safari in partnership with the Defense Innovation Unit.
"VICTUS HAZE is about more than responsive launch, it's about ensuring the U.S. can act at the speed of need in a contested space domain," said Brad Clevenger, president of Rocket Lab National Security. "With Rocket Lab's flight-proven systems and fully integrated mission capability, we're uniquely positioned to deliver the agility, speed and reliability that national security demands."
Rocket Lab is providing a complete end-to-end mission solution for Space Safari, including satellite design, component manufacturing, satellite integration and testing, flight and ground software, mission and launch licensing, launch, commissioning and on-orbit operations. This comprehensive approach allows the company to control the entire mission lifecycle, potentially reducing cost and schedule risks while enabling rapid delivery.
The $32 million contract targets a launch in 2025. Once spacecraft construction is complete, Rocket Lab will enter a "hot standby" phase while awaiting further direction. When the exercise begins, the company will receive notice to launch the spacecraft into a target orbit.
The mission will serve as a proving ground for how commercial companies can rapidly build, deploy and operate spacecraft in response to emerging U.S. national security needs. It will demonstrate the ability to launch and conduct rendezvous and proximity operations on tactically relevant timelines.
By leveraging commercial partners like Rocket Lab, the program supports broader Space Force goals of transitioning from demonstration of responsive space concepts to fully operational national security capabilities.
Rocket Lab will complete final environmental testing and readiness milestones in the coming months.