Russia's state space corporation Roscosmos has announced ambitious plans for 2024, aiming to conduct over 40 space launches as part of a concerted effort to revitalize the country's presence in the global space industry. In an interview with local media on Monday, Yury Borisov, director general of Roscosmos, emphasized the importance of avoiding launch delays and ensuring effective coordination within the corporation.
Borisov highlighted the primary objective for the year, stating, “This year's main task is to complete the entire launch program.” He underscored Roscosmos' commitment to facilitating smooth operations to achieve this goal.
In a significant move towards innovation, Borisov revealed Russia's endeavors in developing reusable super-light launch vehicles. He expressed optimism about the potential of these vehicles to rejuvenate the country's fleet of launch vehicles and enhance its competitiveness in the global market for launch services.
“The ultra-light carrier rocket will be fully reusable, similar to the Amur LNG-powered rocket which is being developed,” Borisov explained. Both the Amur LNG rocket and the ultra-light carrier rocket are slated to be stationed at the Vostochny Cosmodrome, located in Russia's Far East.
Notably, Borisov disclosed the defense ministry's keen interest in lightweight carriers of this class to bolster the profitability of launch services. This convergence of interests underscores the multifaceted strategic implications of Russia's space program.
The announcement signals Russia's strategic intent to leverage technological innovation and strategic partnerships to assert its position in the competitive space industry landscape. With a clear focus on efficiency and innovation, Roscosmos is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration and commercial space activities.