Rocket Lab USA, a global leader in launch services and space systems, announced today it has awarded a contract to Bollinger Shipyards, the largest privately owned builder of new construction and repair vessels in the United States. The partnership will support the development of Rocket Lab’s ocean landing platform for its next-generation reusable Neutron rocket.
Work is already underway to outfit the 400-foot-long landing platform, named Return On Investment, with Rocket Lab’s advanced landing technologies. The vessel is being modified primarily at Bollinger’s shipyard in Amelia, Louisiana, with delivery expected in early 2026. Leveraging its deep marine engineering expertise, Bollinger will collaborate with Rocket Lab on implementing key platform features including autonomous ground support systems, blast shielding for onboard equipment, and station-keeping thrusters to maintain position during offshore Neutron recovery missions.
Driving Reusability for Scalable Launch Capabilities
The Neutron rocket is central to Rocket Lab’s strategy for rapid, reliable, and reusable access to space. Designed to meet growing demand for launching large satellites, constellation deployments, and high-assurance national security payloads, Neutron is engineered for repeated use-with Return On Investment playing a critical role in ensuring its quick turnaround and redeployment.
Also Read: GA Telesis Engine Services Joins with ATSG USA SPAH Launches LEAP Engine Quick Turn Services
Rocket Lab plans to scale Neutron operations quickly, doubling launch capacity annually once the vehicle is in service. The East Coast-based landing platform will operate in support of missions returning to Rocket Lab’s launch complex on Wallops Island, Virginia, aligning with the company’s broader U.S. expansion strategy.
Leadership Commentary
“Neutron’s ability to return to Earth on ‘Return On Investment’ and launch again and again will be foundational to its success. With Bollinger’s extensive experience in marine engineering and shipbuilding, they have been selected to deliver this critical project. We’re looking forward to working with Bollinger to create the conditions to modernize Louisiana’s shipyard capabilities to meet the demands of the aerospace industry’s cutting-edge capabilities,” said Shaun D’Mello, Rocket Lab Vice President – Neutron.
“Bollinger is proud to partner with Rocket Lab on a project that showcases both the ingenuity and innovation of American shipbuilding and the future of space flight. At Bollinger, we’ve spent decades building some of the most advanced vessels in the world. We’re honored to have been selected to bring our deep expertise and experience in marine engineering and fabrication to a program that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible,” said Ben Bordelon, President and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards.