RKLB vs. AVAV: Which Stock Looks Better in the Space Race?

Core Insights - The United States is heavily investing in satellite operations and space-based systems to maintain its strategic edge, benefiting companies like Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (RKLB) and AeroVironment, Inc. (AVAV) [1] Group 1: Company Overview - Rocket Lab specializes in small satellite launches and space systems for government and commercial missions [2] - AeroVironment is known for unmanned aerial vehicles and provides space-qualified hardware for various orbits and missions [2] Group 2: Market Demand and Positioning - Rising demand for space-based services, particularly from commercial customers, positions both RKLB and AVAV for long-term growth [3] Group 3: Rocket Lab (RKLB) Developments - RKLB has seen steady launch activity, completing its 21st Electron launch in December 2025, deploying a satellite for iQPS [4] - The company secured a contract from the U.S. Space Development Agency to design and manufacture 18 satellites, enhancing its credibility in national security [5] - RKLB completed the STP-S30 mission for the U.S. Space Force ahead of schedule, supporting critical defense technologies [6] Group 4: AeroVironment (AVAV) Developments - AVAV benefits from strong demand for defense technologies, delivering mobile counter UAS systems to the U.S. Army [7] - The company won a five-year contract valued at up to $874.3 million from the U.S. Army, supporting foreign military sales and unmanned systems [8] Group 5: Financial Estimates and Performance - RKLB's 2025 loss estimate is 20 cents per share, with revenue expected to reach $600.5 million, indicating a 37.7% growth [9] - AVAV's fiscal 2026 EPS estimate is $3.48, reflecting a 6.1% growth, with revenues projected at $2 billion, implying a 143.7% growth [11] - RKLB shares have surged 191.5% over the past year, outperforming AVAV's 59.5% growth [12] Group 6: Valuation and Market Position - RKLB has a forward Price/Sales multiple of 48.84X, while AVAV's is 5.78X, making AVAV more attractive from a valuation perspective [13] - RKLB has delivered an average earnings surprise of 11.51%, contrasting with AVAV's average negative surprise of 22.65% [14] Group 7: Conclusion - Both companies are benefiting from increased investments in space and defense, but RKLB's strong execution and revenue growth make it a more appealing option for growth-focused investors [18][19]