Russia launches new space missiles from its base in the country

Russia will test the first new space missile since 1991 and launch from domestic territory, to limit dependence on aerospace in Kazakhstan and other regions.

The Angara-1.2PP missile research and manufacturing process lasted for more than 20 years, after the Soviet Union disintegrated. The Angara rocket generation uses clean fuel, unlike the toxic hydrazine fuel that Proton missiles use.

A rocket boosting Angara.(Photo: RIA Novosti)

The new missile will be launched from the Russian region, at Plesetsk military space airport, about 800km north of Moscow.

"This is the first launcher to be developed and built in Russia. Everything else we have is the modernization of legacy from the Soviet Union," Reuters quoted Igor Lissov, a research expert. , said.

The construction and testing of new missiles is considered to be central to Russia's national space industry reform plan. The plan was announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin starting in December last year, including the construction of a new launch base in the Far East.

"The launch of Angara missiles will allow Russia to access the low orbit of the Earth and ensure independence in the field of space research , " asserted by Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin.

According to some experts, the current tense relationship between Moscow and Kiev, after the annexation of Crimea into Russian territory and the operation of separatist forces in eastern Ukraine, has demonstrated the need to reduce dependence. into production and foreign launch.