Rocket Lab Acquires Geost to Boost Golden Dome Contractor Status

Rocket Lab has acquired the parent company of Geost, a developer of advanced electro-optical and infrared sensor systems for space. The acquisition is expected to enhance Rocket Lab's Golden Dome contractor status, enabling the company to provide more comprehensive services to the US government. Geost's expertise in sensor systems will also help Rocket Lab expand its offerings in the space industry.

Rocket Lab Corporation (Nasdaq: RKLB) has completed the acquisition of Geost, LLC, a leading developer of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) sensor systems for national security space missions. The acquisition, announced on May 27, 2025, was finalized for $275 million, comprising approximately $125 million in cash and 3,057,588 shares of Rocket Lab common stock, with an additional potential earnout of up to $50 million tied to future revenue targets [1].

The acquisition of Geost will significantly enhance Rocket Lab's capabilities in providing end-to-end mission solutions, particularly in advanced EO/IR payloads for missile warning, tracking, and space domain awareness. Geost's technologies are crucial for U.S. space assets operating in increasingly contested environments and support various national security missions [1].

Rocket Lab, known for its Electron small orbital launch vehicle and HASTE suborbital launch vehicle, will integrate Geost's EO/IR technologies into its portfolio. This move is expected to strengthen Rocket Lab's role as a prime contractor for next-generation defense initiatives like the Golden Dome for America concept and the Space Development Agency's Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture [1].

Geost's extensive product assets, manufacturing facilities, and intellectual property will be integrated into Rocket Lab's operations. This acquisition will enable Geost to leverage Rocket Lab's resources and manufacturing expertise, boosting high-volume production and making EO/IR technologies available at scale [1].

The acquisition is a strategic move for Rocket Lab to accelerate the delivery of mission-critical payloads that support U.S. national security projects. Rocket Lab's founder and CEO, Sir Peter Beck, noted that the company is accelerating the delivery of mission-critical payloads that support U.S. national security projects, thereby strengthening its role in building the resilient, responsive space architecture envisioned under Golden Dome [1].

Bill Gattle, CEO of Lightridge Solutions, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating that Geost is eager to join forces with Rocket Lab to scale production and accelerate delivery of critical space capabilities [1].

References
[1] https://rocketlabcorp.com/updates/rocket-lab-closes-acquisition-of-geost-expanding-its-national-security-capabilities-with-launch-spacecraft-and-now-payloads/