Starfighters Space, Inc. has delivered a robust Q1 2025 performance, reinforcing its position in air-launch services, hypersonic development, and the growing small-satellite sector. In a shareholder update issued by CEO Rick Svetkoff, the company emphasized strategic milestones, capital momentum, and readiness to scale operations. One of the quarter’s most notable developments was the hiring of Michael “Smitty” Smith, a seasoned military and commercial aviator, whose expertise is expected to accelerate Starfighters’ operational effectiveness and expand its network of defense and industry partners.
In line with national priorities, Starfighters remains active in hypersonics research, collaborating with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory to support next-generation propulsion systems. The broader context is propitious: the U.S. defense budget has increased funding for hypersonic weapons research by nearly 50% since FY 2023, signaling deep institutional interest in speed and responsiveness.
StarLaunch, the company’s air-launch vehicle program, made substantial technical strides this quarter. A January partnership with Innoveering (a GE Aerospace affiliate) laid the foundation for advanced propulsion development. By March, Starfighters had completed the external skin engineering of its StarLaunch I test article, enabling critical simulations of aerodynamic behavior and control. Pending regulatory approval and continued funding, the company plans to progress to underwing flight testing in mid-2025, with a target for its first commercial launch by year-end.
To support anticipated growth, Starfighters is also working to expand its aircraft fleet beyond its current lineup of flight-ready F-104 Starfighters. Negotiations are underway to acquire additional “Platform II” aircraft to broaden launch capacity and flexibility. The timing could not be better. The global launch sector saw 259 orbital attempts in 2024, up 17% over 2023. Demand for small and nano satellites is rising sharply: 68% of spacecraft launched in 2023 weighed under 600 kg, and 27% weighed under 200 kg. Meanwhile, the U.S. Space Force is projected to deploy over 100 new satellites in 2025 alone—trends that play directly into Starfighters’ value proposition.
On the financial front, the company’s ongoing Regulation A Tier 2 offering has generated approximately $18 million in gross proceeds by Q1, with total commitments rising beyond $23 million by early June. These funds will fuel research and development, asset improvements, pilot training, and general operations. Looking ahead, Starfighters Space positions itself firmly at the intersection of aerospace innovation and defense modernization. With key partnerships, technology maturation, and capital backing in place, the company’s roadmap toward operational launches is sharper—and more compelling—than ever. For more information about Starfighter Aerospace, visit www.starfightersspace.com
