The Russian Aerospace Forces launched the Soyuz-2.1b launch vehicle from the Plesetsk cosmodrome in the Arkhangelsk region, placing a spacecraft into orbit. This information was confirmed by the press service of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation.
The ministry stated that the Soyuz-2.1b medium-lift rocket, carrying the spacecraft, was launched in the interests of the Ministry of Defense. Officials emphasized that the operation was conducted as part of ongoing strategic objectives and affirm the readiness of the space forces to support defense mission requirements.
According to the defense ministry, the launch was executed with the participation of the space force combat crews of the Aerospace Forces, showcasing the coordination and discipline typical of such critical space operations. The details of the mission were not disclosed beyond the initial confirmation of the successful liftoff and ongoing status updates.
The defense ministry noted that no further information had been released at the time, with more data to be provided as it becomes available through official channels.
At the end of October, the Aerospace Forces of the Russian Federation began launches of the Soyuz-2.1b from the Plesetsk cosmodrome, continuing a program of autonomous orbital deployments from this northern facility. The cadence of these launches reflects an ongoing effort to maintain space capabilities and demonstrate operational readiness from northern launch sites.
A launch similar to the most recent mission occurred earlier in March, indicating a consistent schedule for Soyuz-2.1b operations from Plesetsk. This pattern aligns with ongoing projects aimed at expanding and updating space infrastructure in support of national defense and scientific objectives.
Previously, MiG-31 interceptor aircraft of the Northern Fleet were reported to have been dispatched for stratospheric targeting and related operations, underscoring the broader range of activities associated with high-altitude defense and aerospace readiness in the region.