On October 30, 2023, Rocket Lab USA, Inc. increased its Board size from eight to nine per its bylaws and appointed Lt. Gen. Nina M. Armagno (Ret.) to fill the new vacancy as a Class III director, serving until the 2024 annual stockholder meeting. Determined independent under Nasdaq standards, she is expected to serve on the Government Security Committee. Armagno brings extensive experience as Director of Staff for U.S. Space Force since 2020, prior Director of Plans and Policy at U.S. Strategic Command, and leadership in Air Force space programs involving procurement, strategy, and interactions with DoD, Congress, and White House. She holds degrees from U.S. Air Force Academy, Chapman University, and National War College.

Compensation follows the standard Non-Employee Director Policy: prorated 2023 cash retainer, initial $360,000 RSU grant vesting over three years, and $180,000 annual RSUs vesting within one year, with pro-rata first annual grant and full acceleration upon company sale. Standard indemnification agreement; no related party transactions over $120,000 or arrangements influencing appointment.

Near-term: Bolsters board expertise in government/space sectors, aiding defense pursuits; minimal dilution from RSUs. Strategically significant for Rocket Lab's national security launches and DoD ties. Investors should view positively as governance enhancement; monitor 2024 AGM.