RKLB Boosts Neutron Plan With Ship Deal: How to Play the Stock

Core Insights - Rocket Lab USA, Inc. is advancing in the space services sector with a contract to build an ocean landing platform for its Neutron reusable rocket, expected to be delivered in early 2026 [1][10] - The company has successfully completed 68 Electron missions and is establishing a strong presence in the small satellite launch market, with plans to expand into larger payload missions with the Neutron project [2][10] - Increasing global demand for satellite services and national security solutions is driving investor interest in the space technology sector, potentially leading to increased investment in Rocket Lab [3] Company Performance - Rocket Lab's shares have increased by 582.4% over the past year, significantly outperforming the Zacks Aerospace-Defense-Equipment industry's growth of 46.2% and the broader Zacks Aerospace sector's return of 27.1% [4] - The stock has also surpassed the S&P 500's return of 11% during the same period [4] - Other defense stocks in the space industry, such as Intuitive Machines and Boeing, have also shown strong performance, with shares of Intuitive Machines rising by 150.8% and Boeing by 26.7% [5] Growth Drivers - Rocket Lab is building growth momentum through successful missions, strong partnerships, and new product development, aiming to complete over 20 Electron missions in 2025 [6][7] - The company has achieved a 100% mission success rate for its Electron launches this year, which is expected to enhance its reputation and attract more customers [7] - The upcoming launch of the Neutron rocket in the second half of 2025 is anticipated to be a major catalyst for the company's expansion beyond small satellite launches [10] Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Rocket Lab's sales in 2025 and 2026 suggests year-over-year improvements of 32.8% and 47.7%, respectively [11] - Current estimates for the next quarter (June 2025) are projected at $135.07 million, with a year-over-year growth estimate of 27.13% [12] - Earnings estimates for 2025 and 2026 also indicate significant year-over-year growth, with improvements of 28.95% and 74.07%, respectively [13] Valuation Metrics - Rocket Lab's forward price-to-sales (P/S) ratio is 24.36X, which is significantly higher than the peer group's average of 9.88X, indicating a premium valuation [16] - Other space stocks, such as Intuitive Machines and Boeing, are trading at lower forward P/S ratios of 5.79X and 1.87X, respectively [17]