Space Force Selects Rocket Lab For Space Data Network Consortium, Awarded $12M in Contracts to Support Global Military Communications Network
Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB), a global leader in launch services and space systems, have announced its onboarding into the U.S. Space Force’s Space Data Network (SDN) Consortium, expanding vendor diversity for the Space Data Network Backbone (SDN-B), a key initiative to develop a secure, high-speed global satellite communications network for military operations. In addition, Rocket Lab has also been competitively awarded two delivery orders totaling a combined value of $12 million to support the SDN-B program to demonstrate interoperability of secure optical communications in space.
The SDN Consortium, managed by the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command, brings together industry leaders to design and deploy a resilient satellite communications architecture. This network will enable secure, real-time global communications to support the U.S. military’s operations across all domains, including air, land, sea, and space.
The SDN-B program is a cornerstone of the U.S. Space Force’s broader Space Data Network initiative, which aims to deliver robust, low-latency, high-capacity data transport for the Joint Force. By ensuring continuous and secure connectivity, the program will enhance mission-critical communications for warfighters worldwide.
Under the delivery orders, Rocket Lab will leverage the company’s advanced capabilities to support the development of the SDN Backbone program, including the design, testing, and demonstration of key technologies to enable seamless communication between satellites and ground systems.
Rocket Lab will also conduct an in-orbit demonstration using a Rocket Lab-built Photon spacecraft equipped with advanced optical and network capabilities to demonstrate interoperability. Rocket Lab is expected to deliver an operational demonstration for the SDN-B program in 2027.
Rocket Lab’s inclusion in the SDN Consortium highlights the company’s proven expertise in delivering end-to-end space systems, including satellite manufacturing, launch services, and on-orbit operations. The $12 million in delivery orders positions the company for potential future opportunities to support the U.S. Space Force’s critical communications infrastructure.
“Rocket Lab is honored to join the U.S. Space Force’s Space Data Network Consortium and to contribute to the development of this critical communications infrastructure,” said Sir Peter Beck, Rocket Lab founder and CEO. “This represents a significant opportunity to leverage Rocket Lab’s vertically integrated capabilities to help ensure seamless interoperability and global connectivity for the Joint Force.”