The U.S Space Force and Rocket Lab set a new record for responsive launch with the Victus Haze mission on Friday. In the Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) mission, Rocket Lab received notice from the Space Force and launched the mission within 16 hours and 42 minutes — breaking the previous record set by Firefly Aerospace. 

These tactically responsive missions are meant to demonstrate the ability to respond to on-orbit threats under tight timelines. The launch was undisclosed until after it took place, with Space Force and Rocket Lab announcing on Monday afternoon. 

Also in this edition, Canadian manufacturer MDA Space gains a “strategic foothold” in the U.S. defense market with its acquisition of Colorado-based Blue Canyon Technologies. 

Cybersecurity experts warn cyber activity targeting the space sector is running “about 400% above” pre-war levels. Access this free CyberSat webinar on demand for insight into evolving Iranian threats, emerging attack vectors, and cyber resilience across space operations.