$RKLB's backlog soared 52% over the quarter to a record $3.57B, while revenue reached $268M (+73% YoY). Let's run through my report based on the 4 checkpoints from my preview: Neutron and R&D: The first launch won’t happen until at least 2027, but customers are voting with their wallets—in Q3, contracts worth $515+M were signed (with 16 missions in the pipeline), and the base launch price was raised from $55M to $70M amid a capacity shortage. The second stage and Thrust Module are already at LC-3, but peak expenses have not yet been reached: Non-GAAP R&D expenses rose from $75.5M to $92.7M. Space Systems Margin: Segment revenue reached $214.8M due to the conversion of SDA Tranche II/III defense contracts, and the backlog grew to $1.7B. The gross margin easily exceeded the 30% target: 33.5% on a GAAP basis (38.4% on a non-GAAP basis), with a Q4 forecast of 34–36% on a GAAP basis (39–41% on a non-GAAP basis). Electron Pace: Assembly accelerated to 1 rocket every 8 days (+37.5% YoY), with the 100th launch scheduled for November 14. Cash Flow and EBITDA: Operating cash flow (GAAP OCF) turned positive at $7.2M (up $91.2M QoQ) and reduced the FCF outflow from $110.1M to $23.9M. Adjusted loss EBITDA loss widened to $18M (Q4 guidance: -$14M…-$20M) due to Neutron-related expenses. The increase in Neutron’s price to $70M even before the first flight fully offsets the launch delay to 2027. The balance sheet shows $4.71B in liquidity; the Iridium acquisition is fully funded and awaits only final regulatory approval. With Q4 revenue guidance of $270–290M, short sellers (7.57% of short interest) remain under intense pressure.
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