Rocket Lab pushes Neutron maiden to Q4 2026 after propellant‑tank test failure

Neutron’s maiden flight is now targeted for Q4 2026 after a Stage‑1 propellant‑tank rupture during qualification testing, triggering a schedule re‑baseline and a renewed emphasis on structural repeatability and production‑process maturity. See recent Neutron progress and milestones (fairing qualification) (source:b4fa47f9-c135-49c8-b418-27517299663a).

The slip comes even as Rocket Lab posted record 2025 revenue and launch cadence, highlighting that near‑term commercial performance remains strong but medium‑lift reusable capability will be delayed (source:28500bdf-4ed4-40cd-9190-958cc3ac14be).

The delay affects timelines for Neutron‑dependent plans — including Rocket Lab’s decision to hold off on a proprietary constellation until Neutron demonstrates reusability — and will push customers awaiting medium‑lift, reusable launches further into 2026 (source:267a052c-798c-4098-82f4-f5e05d92d81a).