Russian space officials have outlined a new timeline for developing a reusable rocket designed to compete with SpaceX's Falcon 9. The updates come from a recent interview with a senior Roscosmos executive. The program now focuses on early testing rather than an immediate orbital debut.
Dmitry Baranov, Roscosmos’ Deputy Director General for Rocket Programs, told the RBC business publication this week that work centers on a first-stage demonstrator vehicle. Two tests are set to begin in 2028. The first will reach under 1 km altitude with the engine running throughout, while the second will climb to 10 km before restarting the engine for a landing on deployable legs.
The Amur-LNG rocket was announced in 2020 with an original target debut in 2026. Plans call for a reusable first stage powered by methane engines and capable of carrying 10.5 metric tons to low-Earth orbit. The RD-0169A engine remains in preliminary test firings.
Officials aim for the vehicle to replace the Soyuz 2 rocket, which currently handles Russian crew and cargo missions to the International Space Station. A May 2026 display indicated flight tests could start in 2031.
