Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Rocket Lab sets responsive-space record with VICTUS HAZE
Rocket Lab launched the U.S. Space Force's VICTUS HAZE tactically responsive mission on an Electron from Launch Complex 1 in New Zealand on June 19, lifting off just 16 hours and 42 minutes after receiving the notice to launch - more than 10 hours faster than the previous record. The Rocket Lab-built Pioneer-class spacecraft was fully commissioned and began orbital maneuvers, beating a 72-hour deadline by over 34 hours, and is now conducting rendezvous and proximity operations with another satellite. It was the first time a single prime contractor delivered an entire all-in-one tactically responsive space mission.
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