Rocket Lab USA(US:RKLB) Globenewswire·2026-02-12 21:30Core Viewpoint - Rocket Lab Corporation is set to launch a dedicated mission named Cassowary Vex for the Department of War's Defense Innovation Unit, utilizing its HASTE rocket to deploy a scramjet-powered aircraft developed by Hypersonix, marking a significant advancement in hypersonic test capabilities for the U.S. and its allies [1][2][3]. Group 1: Mission Details - The Cassowary Vex mission is scheduled for launch no earlier than late February from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 2 at the Virginia Spaceport Authority's Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport [2][9]. - The HASTE launch, titled "That's Not A Knife," represents Rocket Lab's fourth hypersonic test mission in under six months, emphasizing the company's commitment to enhancing the U.S. hypersonic test capabilities [3][9]. Group 2: Strategic Importance - The HASTE program aims to lower cost barriers and increase the test launch tempo, providing unprecedented control over flight profiles and environments up to Mach 20, which is a unique commercial capability that enhances U.S. space superiority [3]. - Rocket Lab's efforts in hypersonic testing align with the critical priorities of the Department of War, showcasing the company's role in national security and defense innovation [3]. Group 3: Company Overview - Rocket Lab is recognized as a leading space company providing launch services, spacecraft, payloads, and satellite components for commercial, government, and national security markets [5]. - The company's Electron rocket is noted as the world's most frequently launched orbital small rocket, while the HASTE rocket offers hypersonic test launch capabilities for the U.S. government and allied nations [5].