supplierScore 55/100Watch
Rocket Lab pursuing vertical integration of RF payload systems; identified RF as remaining area of dependency for spacecraft not yet acquired in-house
Peter Beck· Rocket Lab· Space· 2026-02-27· about Rocket Lab (RKLB)
“the areas that we still don't have 100% control of are starting to get smaller and smaller. We have a great RF team, but I think that's an area that we will look to bolster. And we'll seek opportunities to add scale where possible.”
Why it matters
RF systems are a known gap in Rocket Lab's vertical integration roadmap. M&A pipeline likely includes RF payload manufacturers or RF subsystem suppliers to close this capability gap.
Investment implication
RF payload manufacturers and RF subsystem suppliers (especially those serving defense/space markets) should expect consolidation pressure from Rocket Lab and other integrators seeking vertical integration. Standalone RF suppliers face margin pressure and M&A risk.