Rocket Lab USA to expand with new space structures complex in Maryland

Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (Nasdaq: RKLB), a key player in the launch and space systems sector, recently announced the significant expansion of its space systems business. The development includes a dedicated production and development complex in Middle River, Maryland, designed to deliver an extensive range of advanced composite products for the space industry and enhance the company’s internal supply chain across its launch and space systems.

Introducing the Space Structures Complex

The new Space Structures Complex, set to be located in the historic 113,000 square foot former Lockheed Martin Vertical Launch Building, will focus on manufacturing various vital components for the space industry. These include carbon composite spacecraft buses, satellite dispensers, aerostructures, heat shields, and more. This site will also contribute to the development of Rocket Lab’s new medium lift launch vehicle, Neutron.

Rocket Lab to establish a space structures complex in Middle River, Maryland. Photo courtesy of Business Wire.

Building on a Legacy of Advanced Composite Manufacturing

Rocket Lab’s latest venture builds upon its established expertise in advanced composite manufacturing. Notable achievements include the Electron orbital launch vehicle and Photon Lunar spacecraft, which delivered NASA’s CAPSTONE satellite to the Moon. The new complex will expand Rocket Lab’s capabilities, offering design, engineering, tooling, manufacturing, assembly, and testing services for space applications.

Leadership Remarks on Expansion

Rocket Lab founder and CEO, Peter Beck, expressed excitement about this natural progression, emphasizing the company’s ability to deliver reliable, competitively priced composite products at scale. Maryland Governor Wes Moore also expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to create jobs and stimulate regional growth.

Supporting the Maryland Aerospace Sector

The project has garnered substantial support, including a $1.56 million repayable loan from the Maryland Department of Commerce and additional incentives from Baltimore County. The new complex will not only enhance Rocket Lab’s operational capacity but also complement its existing facilities in the United States and New Zealand.

Strategic Location for Enhanced Operations

The Middle River facility will enable Rocket Lab to expand its operations in proximity to its assembly, integration, and test complex in Virginia. This strategic location will support the production and launch facilities for Electron and Neutron rockets, further consolidating Rocket Lab’s presence in the Maryland aerospace sector.