Rocket Lab delays Neutron rocket debut to 2027

Rocket Lab has announced that the maiden launch of its Neutron rocket is being delayed until 2027. The company cited manufacturing issues involving carbon-composite propellant tank components. Specifically, engineers discovered tiny air pockets, or voids, within the layers of the material during inspections of a newly manufactured forward dome.

CEO Peter Beck stated that the company has since modified its manufacturing process, transitioning to Automated Fibre Placement (AFP) equipment to improve precision and strength. While the defects do not necessarily mean the component would fail in flight, they reduce the structural safety margin. The company expects to complete testing of the replacement components and finish first-stage assembly and cryogenic testing by the first quarter of 2027.

The announcement led to significant volatility for Rocket Lab's stock, which saw declines of over 10% in trading following the news. The Neutron rocket is a critical component of the company’s growth strategy, intended to compete with SpaceX’s Falcon 9 by providing medium-lift capabilities and reusable first-stage technology.