Rocket Lab successfully launched its HASTE rocket on a hypersonic test mission for the Department of Defense’s Innovation Unit (DIU). The mission, titled That’s Not A Knife, lifted off from Virginia on February 27, 2026 (Feb 28 UTC). This flight represents the company’s third launch of 2026.
The mission deployed the DART AE, a scramjet-powered aircraft developed by Hypersonix. This launch marks the second successful hypersonic mission for the DIU within a three-month period. It also represents the seventh HASTE launch to date.
Rocket Lab has maintained a 100% success record for the HASTE program. Hypersonic technology development remains a critical national priority for the United States. This mission establishes HASTE as a key commercial platform for testing hypersonic systems.