Rocket Lab Corp. (NASDAQ: RKLB) on Wednesday pushed back the first launch of its Neutron rocket to 2027, confirming a schedule delay after previously warning that a debut this year was becoming less likely.
The announcement leaves investors waiting longer for a rocket critical to the company’s expansion into larger launch missions.
“Today we shared an update on Neutron development, including adjusting the first flight schedule to 2027,” Rocket Lab wrote on X.
Warning becomes delay
The update follows a change in August, when Rocket Lab aimed to bring Neutron to the launch pad in the fourth quarter rather than committing to launching it during that time. The company had previously targeted a maiden flight in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Reaching the launch pad and making a maiden flight are distinct stages in the development process.
“The window for a year-end launch is narrowing,” CEO Peter Beck said in August, according to Reuters. Management was increasingly focused on preparing Neutron to support a faster mission cadence after its debut.
Bigger missions in game
Neutron is a reusable, medium-range rocket designed to help Rocket Lab compete for larger commercial satellite, civil space and U.S. national security missions. He also plays a role in the company’s satellite projects.
Rocket Lab spent a lot of money on Neutron’s development, launch infrastructure and production preparations, while signing customers before its debut. The revised schedule pushes this first flight milestone to next year, extending the wait for a demonstration of the new vehicle’s capabilities.
RKLB stock price activity: Shares of Rocket Lab were down 8.52% at $54.60 in after-hours trading Wednesday, according to Benzinga Pro. The stock had already fallen 7.85% during the ordinary session to close at $59.18.
This content was partially produced using AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
News and market data powered by Benzinga APIs
© 2026 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
To add Benzinga News as preferred source on Google, Click here.
Gn bussni
