Rocket Lab Hypersonic Test Mission

Rocket Lab Launches Hypersonic Test Mission

Rocket Lab has successfully launched its latest hypersonic test mission, deploying a scramjet-powered aircraft for the US Department of Defense’s Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). The mission, named “That’s Not A Knife”, marks the second DIU hypersonic test flight by Rocket Lab in three months.

Hypersonic Flight

The DART AE aircraft, developed by Australian aerospace engineering company Hypersonix, entered a suborbital environment, travelling at speeds several times faster than sound. This launch is another proud moment for the HASTE team and a great showcase of the important commercial platform it has become for the Department of War.

Regular and reliable HASTE launches are helping to accelerate hypersonic readiness for the nation, and Rocket Lab takes pride in providing the foundation to a new era of testing of this critical technology to protect the United States space security.

Launch Details

The flight took place on 27 February at 7:00 p.m. Eastern (28 February, 00:00 UTC) from Launch Complex 2 at the Virginia Spaceport Authority’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on Wallops Island, Virginia. The company reports a record of full mission completion across all HASTE launches to date.

Rocket Lab has completed three launches in 2026, all meeting stated objectives. The company has now carried out a total of 82 launches for government and commercial clients.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Rocket Lab’s successful launch of its latest hypersonic test mission marks a significant milestone in the development of hypersonic technology. With its HASTE platform, Rocket Lab is providing a critical testing platform for the US Department of Defense and other clients.