- Rocket Lab (RKLB, Financial) partners with Bollinger Shipyards for the development of its Neutron rocket landing platform.
- The platform, named 'Return On Investment', will facilitate the reusability of the Neutron rocket, crucial for Rocket Lab’s operational expansion.
- The revamped platform is expected to be operational by early 2026, supporting launches from Wallops Island, Virginia.
Rocket Lab Corporation (RKLB), a renowned leader in launch services and space systems, has selected Bollinger Shipyards for the construction of its ocean landing platform for the Neutron reusable rocket. This strategic collaboration focuses on modifying the 400-ft-long platform named 'Return On Investment' to support Rocket Lab's ambitious goals for launch frequency and reusability.
The modifications will integrate Rocket Lab's advanced technologies, including autonomous ground support equipment, blast shielding, and station-keeping thrusters. The work is already underway at Bollinger Shipyards' facilities in Amelia, Louisiana. Delivery of the ocean landing platform to Rocket Lab is anticipated in early 2026.
The strategic importance of the 'Return On Investment' platform lies in its capability to enable Neutron's return to Earth and subsequent re-launch, enhancing the cost efficiency and reliability of Rocket Lab's missions. This platform's development aligns with Rocket Lab’s expansion plans, enhancing its capabilities on the U.S. East Coast and supporting the operational requirements of its launch site at Wallops Island, Virginia.
Rocket Lab's Vice President – Neutron, Shaun D’Mello, emphasized the critical nature of the partnership with Bollinger Shipyards, citing the shipbuilder’s extensive marine engineering experience as vital to the project’s success. Bollinger Shipyards’ President and CEO, Ben Bordelon, also expressed pride in collaborating on a project that leverages American shipbuilding ingenuity for advancing spaceflight technologies.
The 'Return On Investment' platform, integral to Rocket Lab’s Neutron strategy, is a testament to the innovation needed in modern aerospace endeavors. Once operational, it will bolster Rocket Lab's plans to double its launch capacity annually, catering to both commercial and national security missions.
