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Advancing Space Domain Awareness Through Strategic Contracts
The ongoing efforts to enhance space domain awareness have led to collaborations between the U.S. Space Force and various space services companies to develop missions aligned with national security priorities. Recently, Rocket Lab secured a significant $32 million contract with the Space Systems Command (SSC) of the U.S. Space Force. The Space Systems Command is tasked with spearheading the development and acquisition of cutting-edge space technologies and capabilities.
The primary objective of this contract is to facilitate the creation of a spacecraft and a command and control center for the VICTUS HAZE Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) mission. This mission aims to expedite the deployment of critical satellite launches essential for national security, enabling a swifter response to potential future threats in orbit.
The intended demonstration mission seeks to evaluate the military’s capability to rapidly position satellites in space, ensuring prompt responses to emerging threats and the investigation of suspicious objects. Peter Beck, the founder and CEO of Rocket Lab, expressed his enthusiasm for being selected by the Space Systems Command, emphasizing the importance of delivering advanced tactically responsive capabilities to support evolving national security requirements.
Rocket Lab’s involvement in the VICTUS HAZE mission is a testament to its proven track record in providing launch and spacecraft solutions that enable advanced missions to be executed within accelerated timelines. The company’s ability to design, construct, launch, and operate a spacecraft within an integrated team framework is a rare feat that promises unparalleled speed and value to the nation.
Design and Implementation of the Mission
As part of the contract, Rocket Lab will be responsible for the design and construction of a rendezvous proximity operation (RPO) capable spacecraft, scheduled for launch in 2025. The spacecraft will be deployed into a target orbit, where it will collaborate with a spacecraft developed by True Anomaly, another recipient of a $30 million contract from the Space Systems Command.
The collaborative effort between Rocket Lab and True Anomaly will involve a simulated exercise aimed at showcasing a realistic threat-response scenario, serving as a model for enhancing on-orbit space domain awareness.
In a statement, Evan Rogers, the CEO and Co-Founder of True Anomaly, expressed pride in partnering with the Space Systems Command to demonstrate Tactically Responsive Space capabilities. Emphasizing the importance of readiness in addressing potential on-orbit threats, Rogers underscored the significance of preparing the U.S., its allies, and partners for any eventuality in space.
This collaboration reflects a broader commitment to deterrence, space domain awareness, and dynamic space operations, which are crucial components of national security strategy in the space domain.
Continued Support for U.S. Space Force Programs
Rocket Lab’s involvement in the VICTUS HAZE mission is not the first instance of the company supporting U.S. Space Force initiatives. Previous collaborations include the successful launch of the Space Test Program’s Monolith satellite on Electron in 2021, a forthcoming $14.49 million contract to launch the SSC’s STP-30 mission, and a $24.35 million contract for the development of the Neutron launch vehicle’s upper stage.
These collaborative efforts underscore the critical role that private space companies play in advancing national security objectives through innovative technology development and strategic partnerships with government entities.
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