Wire · technology
Rocket Lab Joins US Space Force Consortium and Secures $12M Satellite Contracts
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Fusion42 · 19 August 2026 · Fusion42 review
Rocket Lab joined the U.S. Space Force's Space Data Network Consortium and secured $12 million in contracts to develop and test advanced optical and orbital communications technology for defense. The company plans a live space demonstration with its Photon spacecraft in 2027, enhancing the military's resilient and high-speed orbital network.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Government & Space, and 17 sources have reported it between 27 Jul 2026 and 20 Aug 2026.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
Rocket Lab now builds core US military satellite networking infrastructure and plans a 2027 in-orbit test. If you provide satellite hardware or secure space links, this contract is a clear door to winning new defence business.
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17 sources · first reported 27 Jul 2026 · latest 20 Aug 2026
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