Rocket Lab soars on record $2.2B launch deal, defense contracts, and strong Q1 earnings.

Rocket Lab secured its largest launch contract ever, a multi-launch deal for eight missions from 2026 to 2029, boosting its backlog above $2.2 billion and 70 missions. The company also won a $30 million hypersonic test launch contract with Anduril Industries, expanding its defense market presence. Additionally, Rocket Lab announced plans to acquire Motiv Space Systems to enhance its space systems capabilities. Strong Q1 revenue of $200.35 million beat estimates, and the company forecasted Q2 revenue well above expectations, driving shares up over 6% in premarket trading.