According to The National Interest, Russia`s Amur-LNG space rocket has the potential to secure Russia`s leading position in space exploration.
The publication notes that Moscow and Beijing aim to negate the U.S. advantage in reusable rocket technology. Russia, in particular, has already partially succeeded in this endeavor by developing its own reusable Amur-LNG rocket through the state corporation Roscosmos.
The Amur-LNG was developed with the goal of transforming Russia into a competitive player in the global space industry.
The design of the Amur-LNG rocket commenced in 2020. It is intended to feature a reusable first stage (designed for up to 50 launches) powered by RD-0169 engines, which run on oxygen and liquefied natural gas (methane). The maiden launch is anticipated before the end of the current decade from a new launch complex at the Vostochny Cosmodrome in the Amur region. The Amur-LNG will be capable of delivering over 10 tons of payload to low Earth orbit.
Dmitry Bakanov, the Director-General of Roscosmos, announced on June 17 that the National Space Project had been approved by the Council under the President of Russia for Strategic Development and National Projects. This National Project includes the creation of satellite constellations for Earth remote sensing, communications (including broadband internet access), drone management, the development of the methane-fueled Amur-LNG rocket with a returnable stage, and efforts to enhance GLONASS accuracy. All existing federal projects related to cosmonautics are now aligned with this National Project. The Ministry of Finance has approved funding for the National Project totaling approximately 4.4 trillion rubles until 2036.
President Vladimir Putin previously stated that Russia is proud of its unique achievements in space and will formulate long-term plans in this domain.
