US Space Force demonstrates responsive launch for VICTUS HAZE mission, begins on-orbit operations

A Rocket Lab Electron launch vehicle lifts off at 3:19 a.m. PT from the company’s Launch Complex-1 (LC-1) in Mahia, New Zealand, as part of the U.S. Space Force Tactically Responsive Space (TacRS) VICTUS HAZE mission, June 19, 2026. This launch was executed after Space Systems Command System Delta 89’s Space Safari Office issued a Notice-to-Launch (NTL) order which required Rocket Lab to posture for launch to a previously unknown orbit with only a 24-hour notice. The mission will now transition into an on-orbit focus placing operationally relevant systems through realistic rendezvous and proximity operations (RPO) threat response scenarios. VICTUS HAZE is a multi-launch, multi-vehicle mission designed to demonstrate the Nation’s capability to rapidly acquire, launch, and operate space vehicles on operationally relevant timelines in response to urgent on-orbit threats. (Photo courtesy of Rocket Lab)