The mission, part of the USSF’s Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) program under Space Systems Command’s Space Safari and run in partnership with the US Defence Innovation Unit (DIU), aims to showcase how spacecraft can be rapidly built, launched, and operated to meet urgent national security needs.
The SIR confirmed all spacecraft components, systems, and software were ready for final integration and testing. It followed Rocket Lab’s successful Critical Design Review earlier this year, which locked in the mission design and paved the way for production. Since completing the review, Rocket Lab has integrated the spacecraft and moved into final testing – just 15 months after winning the contract.
Rocket Lab is the only company delivering an end-to-end solution for Space Safari on VICTUS HAZE. This includes satellite design, component manufacturing, integration and testing, flight and ground software, mission and launch licensing, launch services, commissioning, and on-orbit operations. By controlling the entire mission life cycle, the company said it can simplify execution, cut costs, reduce schedule risks, and enable faster delivery.
“VICTUS HAZE is about more than responsive launch – it’s about ensuring the US can act at the speed of need in a contested space domain,” said Rocket Lab National Security president Brad Clevenger. “With Rocket Lab’s flight-proven systems and fully integrated mission capability, we’re uniquely positioned to deliver the agility, speed, and reliability that national security demands.”
The mission will test the ability to launch and conduct rendezvous and proximity operations on tactically relevant timelines, highlighting the potential of commercial innovation in strengthening defence capabilities.
By using commercial partners such as Rocket Lab, the USSF aims to fast-track the move from concept demonstrations to fully operational responsive space capabilities. Final environmental testing and readiness checks for VICTUS HAZE are expected in the coming months.