Rocket Lab completes $275 million acquisition of Geost to boost U.S. national security capabilities

The acquisition strengthens Rocket Lab’s position as a prime contractor for next-generation defence initiatives, including the Golden Dome for America concept and the Space Development Agency’s Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. By adding Optical Systems to its portfolio, Rocket Lab can now offer complete, mission-ready spacecraft for U.S. national security programmes.

Geost’s EO/IR technologies are used for missile warning and tracking, tactical intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, Earth observation, and space domain awareness. Founded in 2004, the company has delivered resilient payloads for both classified and unclassified missions, enhancing the protection of U.S. space assets in contested environments.

“Being able to quickly build and deploy entire satellite systems is the cornerstone of future U.S. defense strategy, and with this acquisition, we’re accelerating the delivery of mission critical payloads that support U.S. national security projects. This acquisition strengthens our role in building the resilient, responsive space architecture envisioned under Golden Dome, combining Geost’s proven sensing technologies with Rocket Lab’s ability to scale fast, secure, and integrated space solutions,” said Sir Peter Beck, founder and CEO of Rocket Lab.

Bill Gattle, CEO of Lightridge Solutions, said: “This is a pivotal next step for Geost. Becoming part of Rocket Lab enables Geost to take its sensing technologies further, faster—joining forces with a company that’s redefining space system delivery. Geost is excited to partner with a team that shares a commitment to speed, innovation, and national purpose. Together, Geost and Rocket Lab can scale production, accelerate delivery, and strengthen the critical space capabilities our nation depends on.”

Geost will continue to operate in Arizona and Virginia, expanding Rocket Lab’s presence across North America. The acquisition also transfers Geost’s product assets, manufacturing facilities, laboratories, intellectual property, and inventory to Rocket Lab.