Russia has successfully conducted the first test launch of its new Soyuz-5 rocket from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, marking a key milestone in the country’s space programme, according to its space agency Roscosmos.The launch took place late on April 30 at 2100 Moscow time, with the rocket lifting off without any reported issues. Roscosmos described Soyuz-5 as a next-generation launch vehicle equipped with one of the world’s most powerful liquid-fuelled engines, signalling a major upgrade in Russia’s launch capabilities.According to the agency, the Soyuz-5 rocket is capable of carrying payloads of up to 17 metric tonnes and is designed to significantly reduce launch costs. It is also expected to improve efficiency in placing satellites and other payloads into near-Earth orbit compared to earlier systems.The development is seen as part of Russia’s effort to modernise its space infrastructure and remain competitive in the global space sector, where cost efficiency and payload capability are increasingly critical.‘New step in space exploration’Roscosmos chief Dmitry Bakanov described the launch as a major advancement. He said the rocket represents a “new step in space exploration” and is expected to generate employment opportunities in both Russia and Kazakhstan.Bakanov had earlier told President Vladimir Putin that Soyuz-5 is the first new launch vehicle developed by Russia since 2014, underlining its importance in the country’s long-term space ambitions.
