Rocket Lab contracts Bollinger Shipyards for rocket landing platform

Space company Rocket Lab has awarded a contract to Bollinger Shipyards to support the build-out of its ocean landing platform for its new reusable rocket. The 400-foot (121.9-metre) long platform has been named Return On Investment.

Modification and fit-out of the platform has begun, primarily at Bollinger’s shipyard in Amelia, Louisiana, with delivery expected in early 2026. Bollinger will complete the Rocket Lab-led design of the platform, which includes installing autonomous ground support equipment, blast shielding, and station-keeping thrusters for missions at sea.

Rocket Lab said the reusable landing platform is integral to its plan to scale the launch capacity of its new rocket. The Return On Investment will be operated out of the US East Coast to support launches from Wallops Island, Virginia.

Shaun D’Mello, Rocket Lab Vice President, said the rocket's ability to return to Earth on the Return On Investment and launch "again and again" will be foundational to its success.