---
title: "Why Rocket Lab Is Up Today"
type: "News"
locale: "en"
url: "https://longbridge.com/en/news/299814015.md"
description: "Rocket Lab shares rose 2% driven by defense awards, satellite contracts, and financing for its Iridium acquisition. The company secured $1.94 billion via an at-the-market share sale, replacing a planned bridge facility. Recent wins include $190 million for HASTE hypersonic tests and $266 million for Space Force missions. Raymond James initiated coverage with an $80 price target, citing growth potential despite current negative cash flow."
datetime: "2026-09-22T21:11:19.000Z"
locales:
  - [zh-CN](https://longbridge.com/zh-CN/news/299814015.md)
  - [en](https://longbridge.com/en/news/299814015.md)
  - [zh-HK](https://longbridge.com/zh-HK/news/299814015.md)
generator: "portal-rs"
---

# Why Rocket Lab Is Up Today

Rocket Lab shares climbed about 2% Tuesday as investors weighed fresh defense awards, satellite work and financing progress tied to the company's planned Iridium acquisition.

Rocket Lab has secured $1.94 billion through an at-the-market share sale to fund the Iridium transaction. The financing replaces a planned $3.6 billion bridge facility, reducing the need for debt financing but increasing the company's share count.

Defense programs are also adding to Rocket Lab's order pipeline. The company has received a $190 million award for 20 HASTE hypersonic test flights, along with a separate $266 million Space Force contract covering at least 12 suborbital missions. It was also selected by Viasat to provide a satellite bus for a protected communications program.

Rocket Lab has completed 96 Electron launches, including 17 missions this year. Meanwhile, Raymond James initiated coverage with an $80 price target, citing the company's growth opportunities and potential path toward positive EBITDA and free cash flow by 2027 or 2028. The company still reports negative free cash flow and operating losses, according to the company's latest financial data.

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---
> **Disclaimer: This article is for reference only and does not constitute any investment advice.**