8 Aug 2018 17:39

Putin listens to reports on space rocket industry development

NOVO-OGARYOVO, Moscow region. Aug 8 (Interfax) - Russian President Vladimir Putin has listened to reports on the development of Russia's space rocket industry, particularly the development of a super-heavy launch vehicle, the manned spaceflight program, and the construction of the Vostochny Cosmodrome at a conference on Wednesday.

"Some time ago, I gave a number of assignments to the government and Roscosmos concerning the enlargement of the orbital satellite group, the development of a super-heavy class launch vehicle, the implementation of the manned spaceflight program, and the completion of the Vostochny Cosmodrome construction," Putin said.

"I expect to hear today how these assignments have been fulfilled," he said.

"Russia has all the necessary design, engineering, and technical capabilities to implement these projects," he said.

The space industry is of strategic significance to Russia, he said.

"Its steady and consistent development is essential for national security, for strengthening our scientific potential and creating innovative production facilities," he said.

"Space exploration, the use of opportunities opening up for the economy and social sector are crucial areas of Russia's technological breakthrough," he said.

Putin proposed discussing space rocket industry development programs and extra measures to make sure that the industry is stable and its functioning is balanced.

Taking part in the conference were First Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov, presidential aide Andrei Belousov, Aerospace Forces Deputy Commander and Space Forces Commander Alexander Golovko, and Roscosmos CEO Dmitry Rogozin.