Rocket Lab Corporation (NASDAQ: RKLB) is expanding its footprint in defense space infrastructure after being onboarded to the U.S. Space Force’s NITE-STAR indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract.
The contract carries a ceiling value of $981 million and is designed to advance space test and training infrastructure for U.S. Space Force operators.
Rocket Lab’s inclusion in the program, announced on August 17, 2026, opens the door for the company to compete for task orders tied to future Space Force requirements.
NITE-STAR is centered on building a distributed test and training architecture that prepares space operators to perform effectively in contested and complex scenarios.
The program spans several capability areas, including the development and integration of space-based systems, deployment of ground infrastructure, creation of digital environments, and sustainment of operational systems.
Rocket Lab’s vertically integrated model, covering satellite design, manufacturing, launch, and on-orbit operations, positions it to pursue task orders across multiple stages of space missions.
The company’s expertise in satellite development, space software, systems engineering, and mission operations aligns closely with the technical requirements embedded in the NITE-STAR framework.
Participation in the program also deepens Rocket Lab’s involvement in U.S. government and defense activities at a time when space readiness is becoming an increasingly critical national security priority.
Other major defense contractors are also building out capabilities in this space, with L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) and Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) both developing technologies and infrastructure for U.S. government space missions.
L3Harris provides space systems, mission technologies, and related capabilities that support government and defense space operations across a range of programs.
Northrop Grumman develops space systems and mission solutions that support satellite operations, space-domain awareness, and national security objectives.
Despite the competitive landscape, Rocket Lab’s specialized focus and end-to-end space systems capability give it a differentiated position within the NITE-STAR contractor pool.
On the financial side, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for Rocket Lab’s 2026 and 2027 earnings per share points to year-over-year growth of 81.48% and 240%, respectively.
RKLB shares have surged 53.7% over the past year, significantly outpacing the broader industry’s growth of 7.7% over the same period.
The stock is currently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-sales ratio of 36.61X, a substantial premium to the industry average of 8.32X, reflecting elevated investor expectations around the company’s long-term growth trajectory.
Rocket Lab currently holds a Zacks Rank of No. 2, categorized as a Buy, suggesting analysts see continued upside potential as the company expands its defense and space infrastructure business.
