Southern Launch and DSTG conduct Koonibba Rising Rocket launch in South Australia
Space & Defense Tech and Security News
August 6th 2026 Editorial Team
Southern Launch and the Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) have launched the Koonibba Rising Rocket (KRR) from the Koonibba Test Range in South Australia. Named after the Koonibba community, the mission was the third to take place at the range in 2026.
According to Southern Launch, the KRR vehicle flew as designed, validating the DSTG and Thales-led Advanced Rocket Motor Technology Demonstrator (ARMTD) Program-delivered K-R rocket motor in flight. The mission achieved a full-duration motor burn and captured in-flight telemetry, while also confirming the performance of Southern Launch’s flight vehicle structures and avionics systems.
The mission was the first launch collaboration between Southern Launch and DSTG. Southern Launch said the results will inform future solid rocket motor system development and demonstrate domestic capability to design, build, launch and test rocket systems.
Southern Launch said the mission underscores industry and government collaboration, and the role of domestic motor production and commercial launch infrastructure in supporting Australia’s defence and security priorities.
The launch was conducted from the Koonibba Test Range, a commercial spaceport operated by Southern Launch in partnership with the Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation. Southern Launch said the KRR mission patch was designed by a student from the Koonibba Aboriginal School, and that community members were employed during the mission campaign.
Lloyd Damp, CEO, Southern Launch said, “This launch is a defining moment for Southern Launch and a major step forward for Australia’s space and national security capability. Successfully delivering the KRR mission demonstrates the strength of our team, our infrastructure, and our capabilities as a launch service provider.”
“Working alongside DSTG highlights the importance of collaboration between industry and government to accelerate innovation, strengthen national capability, and unlock new opportunities in the aerospace sector.”
Corey Mclennan, CEO Koonibba Community Aboriginal Corporation stated, “The Koonibba Test Range is built on genuine partnership between our Koonibba community and Southern Launch. Every mission we deliver is grounded in that relationship. We’re proud to be creating long-term opportunities whilst supporting Australia’s space and defence capabilities.”
“These capabilities continuously remind us – how we started many years ago, how we have provided opportunities through ownership of what we do, how we broaden the horizon of education and where we want our kiddies to be, and how we create employment prosperity for years to come. We are collectively ensuring that the growth of the space and defence industry sector delivers tangible benefits and safety mechanisms for all Australians, and that Koonibba is at the forefront and is included.”
Comments