KSLV-I Booster Delivered by Antonov An124

The prototype first stage booster manufactured by Khrunichev for the new KSLV-I (Korean Space Launch Vehicle-1) is on its way from Moscow to Korea on board an Antonov An-124.

Destined for the Naro Space Center located in Goheung, southwestern Korea, the prototype will be used to test the ground equipment and simulate the launch procedure required before liftoff.

The booster was manufactured by Khrunichev near to Moscow. As per standard Russian practice it was transported initially by rail to the departure airport and then by a Polet Antonov An-124-100 'Ruslan' aircraft to South Korea.

South Korea’s space agency, the Korea Aero Space Research Institute (KARI), is responsible for development of the solid rocket motor kick stage making the complete assembly capable of placing a 100kg satellite into orbit.

The second stage has already been delivered in April of this year and delivery and checkout of the Russian first stage booster will enable to first flight ready launcher to be assembled later this year.