The company Rocket Lab has warned that the chances of making the first launch of the Neutron rocket are narrowing to the end 2026 year, despite progress in its development.
10 August 2026 year according to the results of the telephone conference, the company confirmed, that work on degrees, engines and other systems corresponds to the missile delivery plans
to the launch pad in the IV quarter 2026 year. At the same time, the launch in the specified quarter is not guaranteed, as there is provision for on-site testing, in particular, the static fire test of the first degree.
CEO Peter Beck noted, that current activities are aimed at risk management and ensuring the missile is ready for full-scale production
and high frequency of launches. The most critical stage remains integrated stage tests and static fire tests.
Neutron's first launch has already been repeatedly delayed (was originally planned for 2024 year). Despite this, demand for rocket launches from commercial and government customers remains high. The company adheres to the gradual increase of launches according to the principle of "one - three - five" in the first three years of operation. Increasing the frequency of launches will depend on the realization of the reusability of the missile.
Source: https://spacenews.com