The NSSL Phase 3 programme, Lane 1, is designed to support launch providers offering emerging, lower-cost launch capabilities. The five-year contract, which runs through to June 2029, has a ceiling value of $5.6 billion and may be extended to 2034. Under the contract, a minimum of 30 missions are expected to be awarded among the selected providers during the initial period.
Rocket Lab is one of only five companies chosen to participate in the programme, making it a significant step forward for the company’s expansion into the medium-lift launch market. Neutron, Rocket Lab’s new launch vehicle, is a 13-tonne class, reusable, carbon composite rocket designed to lift payloads of up to 13,000 kilograms to low Earth orbit.
Neutron will launch from Virginia, specifically from the company’s new facilities at Launch Complex 3 on Wallops Island. This site will serve as Rocket Lab’s first U.S.-based launch pad for the Neutron vehicle and is expected to support both commercial and government missions, including potential NSSL flights. Rocket Lab anticipates the first Neutron launch from this location in the second half of 2025.
As part of the onboarding process to the NSSL programme, Rocket Lab has been awarded a $5 million task order. This funding will be used to conduct a Capability Assessment, allowing the company to demonstrate how its Neutron vehicle can meet the mission assurance requirements of the U.S. Space Force. These requirements include precise launch timing, orbit accuracy, and secure payload handling—all vital for sensitive national defence missions.
Commenting on the announcement, Rocket Lab founder and CEO Sir Peter Beck said, “Supporting assured access to space for the nation’s most important missions has always been the goal with our Neutron rocket.” He added, “Neutron is a powerful new launch option that will set a new standard for performance, affordability, and reliability in medium launch.”
Rocket Lab’s Neutron rocket is being developed specifically to meet both commercial and government demands, including the evolving needs of national security customers. Its design incorporates reusable first-stage technology, a robust fairing system, and compatibility with a wide range of payload configurations. These features are intended to provide rapid response capabilities and increased resilience for defence and intelligence missions.
With the NSSL Phase 3 selection, Rocket Lab continues to transition from a small satellite launch provider into a full-spectrum aerospace company. The firm has already made a name for itself with its Electron rocket, which has completed over 40 launches to date. The Neutron vehicle represents a step up in both payload capacity and mission profile, aligning Rocket Lab with larger, more established launch providers.
The selection by the U.S. Space Force also affirms growing trust in Rocket Lab’s technical capabilities, infrastructure investments, and long-term commitment to innovation. The company has invested heavily in its Virginia-based production and launch facilities, which are expected to play a central role in its future U.S. government missions.
