Rocket Lab Corporation, a prominent global entity in launch services and space systems, has officially declared its upcoming dedicated mission utilizing the HASTE rocket. This initiative is commissioned by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) under the Department of War, underscoring a significant advancement in hypersonic testing capabilities.
Mission Details and Launch Schedule
The mission, designated Cassowary Vex, is poised for launch no earlier than the latter part of February. It will originate from Rocket Lab Launch Complex 2, situated within the Virginia Spaceport Authority's Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Wallops Island, Virginia. This launch, informally titled "That's Not A Knife," is set to deploy the DART AE, a scramjet-powered aircraft engineered by Hypersonix, an Australian aerospace firm.
Enhancing Hypersonic Test Capabilities
This event represents Rocket Lab's fourth hypersonic test mission within a span of less than six months, highlighting the company's substantial investment in revitalizing national hypersonic test infrastructure. By leveraging commercial speed, innovation, and execution, Rocket Lab aims to address a critical priority for the Department of War. The HASTE rocket facilitates reduced cost barriers and an accelerated test launch tempo for the United States and its allies, offering unparalleled control over flight profiles and environments reaching speeds up to Mach 20.
This commercial capability is currently unmatched on a global scale, thereby contributing to the expansion and security of U.S. space superiority.
Key Launch Information
- Mission Name: Cassowary Vex
- Launch Name: That's Not A Knife
- Launch Window Open: Late February
- Customer: Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and Hypersonix
- Launch Site: Launch Complex 2, Virginia
For additional details, interested parties can refer to Rocket Lab's official launches page. Live updates will be available through the company's social media channels on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, with the launch broadcast streamed live on YouTube.
About Rocket Lab
Rocket Lab stands as a leading space company, providing comprehensive launch services, spacecraft, payloads, and satellite components to commercial, government, and national security sectors. The Electron rocket is recognized as the world's most frequently launched orbital small rocket, while the HASTE rocket delivers hypersonic test launch capabilities. The Neutron launch vehicle, currently in development, is anticipated to enable medium launch missions for constellation deployment, national security, and exploration. Rocket Lab's contributions have supported over 1,700 missions, including GPS, constellations, and explorations to the Moon, Mars, and Venus. The company is publicly traded on the Nasdaq stock exchange under the ticker RKLB.
Forward-looking statements in this announcement are subject to risks and uncertainties as detailed in Rocket Lab's SEC filings.
