Customer Profile

UK Ministry of Defence

Ministry of Defence (United Kingdom)

gov.uk Cited Sources 7Related Companies 5

The **UK Ministry of Defence** (MOD) is the government body responsible for managing military space activities through **UK Space Command** 1+12. The MOD oversees critical space infrastructure including the **Skynet** satellite constellation and manages the **Hypersonic Technologies & Capability Development Framework** (HTCDF) 4+15.

For Rocket Lab investors, the MOD represents a high-value customer segment for both launch and technology services. The UK is investing approximately **£1 billion ($1.3 billion)** into the HTCDF to support the development of sovereign hypersonic technology 4+15.

Last Updated: 2 months ago

Website

Investment Thesis

Key Differentiators

• Hypersonic Framework: Manages the **£1 billion ($1.3 billion)** Hypersonic Technologies & Capability Development Framework (HTCDF) 4+15.
• Space Command: Leads military space activities through the specialized **UK Space Command** 1+12.
• Satellite Management: Responsible for the management of the **Skynet** satellite constellation .

Risk Factors

• Procurement Dependency: Satellite procurement involves specific contract awards, such as the **£22 million** contract for Tyche awarded to Surrey Satellites Technology Limited 3.
• Programmatic Timing: The **ISTARI** programme aims for a constellation of satellites and supporting ground systems by **2031** (projection) .

Rocket Lab Relationship

Rocket Lab is eligible to bid for services and technologies via its **HASTE** (Hypersonic Accelerator Suborbital Test Electron) launch vehicle 4+15. This vehicle supports the UK's development of sovereign hypersonic technology 4+15. This relationship spans the **launch services** segment, specifically targeting defense-related hypersonic testing requirements 4+15.