Kymeta & iRocket partner on missile interceptor connectivity
Kymeta and iRocket have entered into a strategic partnership to integrate Kymeta's conformal multi-orbit satellite technology into iRocket's missile interceptors.
The collaboration will bring Kymeta's flat-panel metamaterial antenna technology to missile interceptor platforms produced by iRocket. Multi-orbit, real-time satellite connectivity is expected to provide interception systems with mid-course updates, increasing accuracy and resilience in contested environments. The integration also aims to support the US's broader vision of persistent continental defence infrastructure, sometimes referred to as the "Golden Dome"
Design advantages
The conformal antenna system, manufactured using metamaterial components, is engineered directly into the missile interceptor's surface. This approach enables the removal of gimbaled or phased array hardware, which traditionally protrudes from the platform. According to both companies, embedding the antennas reduces drag and detectability, potentially improving interceptor speed and manoeuvrability.
The lightweight, low-profile antenna solution also contributes to a reduction in the overall size, weight, and power requirements of the interceptor system. That supports the development of smaller, faster, and more power-efficient missile technologies, which are considered critical for operational range and rapid response capabilities.
Performance features
Kymeta's technology brings several technical enhancements for missile interceptors. Key features include agile beam steering, which can improve accuracy and communication reliability.
The system's dynamic beamforming is designed to optimise tracking while minimising electromagnetic and thermal signatures, attributes essential for operating in contested environments.
Multi-orbit and multi-band connectivity are intended to support a complete PACE (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) communications framework, enhancing resilience against signal disruptions. The companies state that the satellite communications solution can provide secure, real-time communications even as missiles operate in complex operational conditions.
Joint development
The partnership reflects the US government's recent push to accelerate the adoption of commercial satellite and aerospace technologies within the defence sector. In August 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order to streamline regulations and add competition to America's commercial space industry.
"With the U.S. government pushing to integrate cutting-edge commercial technology into military capabilities faster, and more flexibly, than traditional rigid procurement strategies allow, our work with iRocket meets this need and demonstrates how our metamaterial technology and their advanced rockets can jointly deliver critical new defense capabilities," said Manny Mora, President and CEO of Kymeta.
Both firms believe the blending of Kymeta's satellite technology with iRocket's interceptor and rocket propulsion capabilities will enhance mission success rates and system resilience.
Initial development and integration activities are set to begin immediately, with testing planned for 2026. The work focuses on establishing a technical baseline for the application of conformal antenna technologies in missile defence contexts, including structural integration and live performance validation.
"Integrating Kymeta's metamaterial technology is a game-changer for our missile and space platforms," said Asad Malik, Founder, Chairman and CEO of iRocket. "This collaboration will enable us to build smarter, faster, and more efficient systems that can outperform existing technologies. It is a critical step toward advancing our mission of delivering rapid, responsive, and reusable capabilities to the defense and space sectors."
