Kratos Signs Gateway Launch Platform Deal
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has agreed to use Seagate Space's first Gateway offshore launch platform for a planned 2027 mission.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in Space
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions announced on November 10, 2026, a long-term agreement with Seagate Space for use of its first Gateway offshore launch platform. The deal supports Kratos' planned first mission from the platform in 2027.
Why it matters
The companies say the collaboration lays groundwork for offshore mission operations as demand grows for hypersonic testing, ballistic-missile targets, and responsive launch capabilities. The sea-based platform is designed to complement land-based launch sites and test ranges.
The Gateway series vessels are modular, mobile offshore platforms designed for government and commercial launch, testing, and recovery missions. Kratos' products include hypersonic test vehicles, rocket systems, propulsion technologies, target vehicles, and launch services.
The players
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
Kratos is a NASDAQ-listed (KTOS) defense technology company known for hypersonic test vehicles, rocket systems, propulsion technologies, target vehicles, and launch services.
Seagate Space
Seagate Space is a St. Petersburg, Florida-based company and spARK Labs by ARK Invest member developing modular offshore launch and recovery platforms for government and commercial customers.
The details
Under the long-term agreement, Kratos plans to use the Gateway platform initially for defense-related launch and target missions, with the platform's mobility offering flexibility in launch geometry, range access, and scheduling. Seagate Space, a spARK Labs by ARK Invest member company headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, has executed its first Gateway platform construction contract.
Timeline
November 10, 2026: Kratos announces the Gateway agreement with Seagate Space.
2027: Kratos' planned first mission from the Gateway platform.
The Tech Race
The Gateway platform revives the offshore launch concept pioneered by the Sea Launch program, which used a mobile sea platform to reach equatorial launch geometry. Kratos and Seagate Space are applying that approach to defense-focused hypersonic and target missions rather than commercial satellite launches.
Offshore launch platforms could give defense and commercial customers more flexibility in where and when rockets launch, reducing reliance on fixed land-based ranges. Any near-term effect on everyday consumers is limited, as the initial work centers on government-related test and target missions.
The takeaway
Offshore launch capability is becoming a strategic option for defense testing, and watching the 2027 Gateway mission will show whether the approach works in practice. Readers following the sector can track Kratos (KTOS) and Seagate Space's construction milestones.
What happens next
Kratos plans its first mission from the Gateway platform in 2027, with multiple additional launches planned each subsequent year.
Further reading
For more on how commercial launch infrastructure is evolving, explore Space coverage on Wisevoter.
