LONG BEACH, Calif., Dec. 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) (“Rocket Lab” or “the Company”), a global leader in launch services and space systems, today announced its next Electron launch will deploy the STP-S30 mission for the U.S. Space Force’s (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) after accelerating the launch of the mission by several months, demonstrating Rocket Lab’s agility in meeting the Department of War’s (DoW) space access demands. The launch, named ‘Don’t Be Such A S ...

Core Insights - Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (RKLB) shares have increased by 6.3% over the past month, outperforming the Zacks Aerospace-Defense Equipment industry, which declined by 2.5% [1] - The company's recent performance is attributed to notable acquisitions, successful launches, and advancements in new programs [4][11] Performance Comparison - Other defense equipment stocks, such as Heico Corporation (HEI) and Astronics (ATRO), have also shown positive performance, with HEI gaining 0.1% and ATRO gaining 33.8% in the same period [2] - Rocket Lab's stock performance is significantly better than the Zacks Aerospace sector's decline of 0.2% and the S&P 500's rise of 2.2% [1] Growth Drivers - The opening of Launch Complex 3 for the Neutron rocket is a critical development, enhancing Rocket Lab's position in the medium-lift launch market [4][12] - The completion of the 70th Electron launch reinforces its status as the most frequently launched small orbital rocket, indicating strong demand from commercial and government sectors [5][11] - Investments in semiconductor and sensor capabilities, supported by $23.9 million in federal funding, aim to enhance supply-chain security for national security space missions [6] Strategic Acquisitions - Rocket Lab's acquisition of Geost for $275 million will strengthen its role as a prime contractor for next-generation defense initiatives and expand its portfolio in mission-ready spacecraft solutions [7] Future Outlook - The Neutron program is expected to be a major growth driver, with its first flight anticipated in the second half of 2025 [12] - The company aims for over 20 Electron launches this year, positioning it for steady revenue growth [11] Financial Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RKLB's 2025 revenues indicates a 34.7% improvement year-over-year, with earnings expected to grow by 34.2% [14] - For 2026, revenue estimates suggest a 46.7% increase, while earnings are projected to grow by 77.3% [14] Valuation Metrics - RKLB shares are trading at a premium, with a forward 12-month Price/Sales (P/S F12M) ratio of 28.44X, compared to the industry's average of 9.55X [18] - Other defense companies like HEI and ATRO are trading at lower P/S ratios of 9.34X and 1.72X, respectively [20] Conclusion - Rocket Lab's achievements in launches, facility openings, and strategic acquisitions highlight its strong execution and growing demand in both commercial and defense markets [21]

Core Insights - Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (RKLB) shares have increased by 74.4% over the past three months, outperforming the Zacks Aerospace-Defense Equipment industry growth of 9.4%, the Zacks Aerospace sector's growth of 9%, and the S&P 500's rise of 8.9% [1] - The strong performance is attributed to robust revenue growth, successful acquisitions, and contract wins [4][5][11] Revenue Performance - In Q2 2025, Rocket Lab reported revenues of $144 million, exceeding estimates by 7% and reflecting a year-over-year increase of 36% [4][10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RKLB's 2025 revenues indicates a solid improvement of 34.7% from the prior year [14] Acquisitions and Contracts - Rocket Lab completed the acquisition of GEOST, enhancing its capabilities in electro-optical and infrared sensor systems [5] - The company reached an integration milestone for the U.S. Space Force's Victus Haze mission, demonstrating its ability to deliver responsive space operations [5] Future Growth Catalysts - The upcoming launch of the Neutron rocket in the second half of 2025 is expected to be a significant growth driver, allowing Rocket Lab to compete for larger missions [12] - More than 20 planned Electron missions in 2025 are anticipated to support revenue and earnings growth [11] Market Position and Valuation - RKLB shares are trading at a premium, with a forward 12-month Price/Sales (P/S F12M) ratio of 27.92X, compared to the industry average of 2.26X [18] - Industry peers AAR Corporation (AIR) and Curtiss-Wright Corporation (CW) are trading at lower P/S ratios of 0.93X and 5.17X, respectively [19]