iRocket to use Velo3D AM for reusable launch vehicle and defence hardware
Velo3D, Inc, Fremont, California, USA, has announced an expanded partnership with Innovative Rocket Technologies (iRocket), an aerospace company developing 100% reusable launch vehicles. This partnership includes iRocket’s acquisition of Velo3D’s Sapphire Additive Manufacturing machines and the adoption of its Rapid Production Solutions (RPS).
Using Additive Manufacturing will allow iRocket to iterate on its designs with each recoverable launch, supporting the company’s ‘Recondition, Reload, and Relaunch’ plan to enable turnaround in under twenty-four hours – similar to how aeroplanes are used today.
“Working with iRocket exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in building resilient, US-based manufacturing,” stated Dr Arun Jeldi, CEO, Velo3D. “By integrating their Sapphire printers into our Rapid Production Solutions, iRocket can seamlessly transition from prototype to production, achieving the consistency and scalability required for flight-critical and defence hardware.”
Founded in 2018, iRocket is developing the Shockwave 100% reusable launch vehicle designed for rapid turnaround and reusability between missions. The company has secured contracts and collaborations with the US Space Force and Air Force Research Laboratory to advance propulsion and defence applications. In July 2025, iRocket backer and billionaire industrialist Wilbur L Ross announced plans to go public on NASDAQ via a $400 million SPAC merger with BPGC Acquisition Corp.
“Velo3D’s Additive Manufacturing technology gives us the freedom to design and produce propulsion system components and 3D print complex geometries that couldn’t be built by traditional methods,” said Asad Malik, CEO, iRocket. “By expanding our collaboration, we gain the speed, flexibility, and control needed to achieve our mission of delivering reusable, high-frequency launch capabilities for both commercial space and national defence customers.”
The companies also anticipate that the use of Additive Manufacturing in Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) production will help expand and reindustrialise the US defence base.
