With a new Soyuz rocket, Russia seeks to break its Ukrainian dependency

Russia is seeking to break its dependency on Ukrainian-made Zenit rockets by developing a new Soyuz-5 rocket. The Zenit rockets, previously produced in Ukraine, have been crucial for Russia's space program. However, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has disrupted this supply chain, prompting Russia to find an alternative. The Soyuz-5, also known as the "Phoenix," is being developed to replace the Zenit and serve as the main launch vehicle for Russia's space missions. The new rocket is expected to be more cost-effective and reliable than the Zenit, reducing Russia's reliance on its neighbor. The development of the Soyuz-5 is part of Russia's broader efforts to strengthen its domestic space capabilities and reduce its vulnerability to external factors. The successful launch of the new rocket would be a significant milestone for Russia's space program and its efforts to maintain its position as a leading space-faring nation.