Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (RKLB, Financials) announced that NASA has selected its Neutron rocket to provide launch services under the Venture-Class Acquisition of Dedicated and Rideshare (VADR) contract.

The Neutron rocket, designed to carry payloads of up to 13,000 kilograms to low Earth orbit, will support NASA missions, including CubeSats, Class D missions, and other orbital deployments. Rocket Lab stated that the selection expands its existing VADR contract, which already includes its Electron rocket.

According to Rocket Lab, the Neutron rocket is part of its strategy to address medium-lift launch needs for both commercial and government missions. The company emphasized that this contract builds on its previous collaboration with NASA using the Electron rocket for time-sensitive launches under the VADR program.

The company further stated that Neutron is also included in other government contracts, such as the United States Space Forces Orbital Services Program-4 and is positioned for the National Security Space Launch Lane 1 program, which is valued at $5.6 billion over five years.

Rocket Lab reported significant progress on the Neutron rockets development, including the completion of its Wallops Island, Virginia, launch site, which is expected to be ready in the coming months. The company said Neutrons first launch is scheduled for mid-2025.

Rocket Lab, headquartered in Long Beach, California, has launched over 200 satellites since 2018, according to the company.