The deal, announced overnight, expands on a previous multi-launch agreement between the two companies finalised in mid-2024. Together, the contracts will see Rocket Lab deliver 21 of Synspective’s StriX synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites into orbit by the end of the decade.
The latest agreement further cements Rocket Lab’s position as a global leader in small satellite launch services and underscores the growing international demand for reliable, flexible access to space.
Rocket Lab has served as Synspective’s exclusive launch provider since the company began deploying its StriX constellation, successfully orbiting six satellites to date. All have been launched aboard Electron rockets from Rocket Lab’s Launch Complex 1 on the Māhia Peninsula in New Zealand.
The next 21 missions will also launch from the same site, with Rocket Lab’s flexible scheduling, custom mission design and rapid turnaround cited as key factors behind Synspective’s decision to extend the partnership.
Rocket Lab founder and chief executive Sir Peter Beck said the expanded agreement highlighted the trust and consistency built between the two companies.
“Regular and reliable launch on a flexible schedule is essential to the buildout of Synspective’s constellation,” Beck said. “Electron has been integral to that from the start, as the sole launcher of all StriX satellites currently in orbit. We’re honoured to add another 10 missions to the manifest and continue our long-standing partnership.”
Synspective founder and chief executive Dr Motoyuki Arai said Rocket Lab’s precision and performance had been instrumental in meeting the company’s ambitious deployment goals.
“Rocket Lab’s proven accuracy and reliability have consistently allowed us to stay on schedule and meet our mission objectives,” Arai said. “Our continued collaboration is vital to accelerating the deployment of our SAR satellite network and expanding our global data services.”
Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket has become the vehicle of choice for many commercial satellite operators, known for its reliability, rapid launch cadence and pinpoint orbital accuracy, often within metres of target.
Most of Rocket Lab’s 2025 launch manifest consists of repeat contracts with major commercial constellation customers, with several entire constellations completed within a single year.
The company said the expanded Synspective deal underscores its growing dominance in the small lift launch market and reinforces New Zealand’s role as a global hub for commercial space operations.