# Briz-KM

> Russian liquid-propellant orbit-insertion upper stage

**Wikidata**: [Q35479](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q35479)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/briz-km

## Summary
The Briz-KM is a Russian liquid-propellant orbit-insertion upper stage manufactured by the Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center. Functioning as a specialized "space tug," it is designed to move payloads from a reference orbit to a target orbit or direct them toward an interplanetary trajectory. It first flew in May 2000 and is identified by the GRAU index 14S45.

## Key Facts
- **Classification:** It is a rocket model and a subclass of space tug (spacecraft vehicle).
- **Manufacturer:** Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center.
- **Country of Origin:** Russia.
- **Function:** Orbit-insertion upper stage used to move payloads between orbits or to interplanetary trajectories.
- **First Flight:** May 2000.
- **GRAU Index:** 14S45.
- **Propulsion:** Powered by a single S5.98M engine, four 11D458 engines, and twelve 17D58E engines.
- **Mass Specifications:**
  - Launch Weight: 6,475 kilograms.
  - Dry Weight: 920 kilograms.
- **Propellant Type:** Liquid-propellant.

## FAQs
**What is the primary function of the Briz-KM?**
The Briz-KM serves as an upper stage and orbital transfer vehicle designed to move payloads from a reference orbit to a specific target orbit or to direct them onto an interplanetary trajectory.

**What propulsion systems does the Briz-KM utilize?**
The stage is powered by one S5.98M engine, supported by four 11D458 engines and twelve 17D58E engines, using liquid propellant.

**When did the Briz-KM first operate and who builds it?**
The vehicle first flew in May 2000 and is manufactured by the Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center in Russia.

**What are the mass specifications of the Briz-KM?**
The vehicle has a documented launch weight of 6,475 kilograms and a dry weight of 920 kilograms.

## Why It Matters
The Briz-KM represents a critical component in modern spaceflight logistics, specifically within the Russian space program. As a "space tug," it solves the fundamental limitation of launch vehicles by providing the necessary thrust to modify orbits after the initial launch phase has ended. This capability allows payloads to reach precise geostationary orbits or interplanetary trajectories that the launch vehicle alone could not achieve. By performing these precise orbital maneuvers, the Briz-KM extends the mission capabilities of rockets, reduces the overall cost of reaching specialized orbits, and enables complex mission architectures involving satellite deployment and deep space exploration.

## Notable For
- **Specialized Orbital Maneuvering:** Distinguished by its ability to perform multiple burns and precise orbital adjustments rather than just initial ascent.
- **Complex Propulsion Array:** Unique configuration utilizing one main engine (S5.98M) supplemented by multiple attitude control engines (11D458 and 17D58E).
- **Liquid Propellant Efficiency:** Noted as a liquid-propellant upper stage, offering specific advantages in thrust control compared to solid rocket upper stages.
- **Mission Flexibility:** Capable of serving as an upper stage for Earth orbits or directing payloads to interplanetary destinations.

## Body
### Definition and Classification
The Briz-KM is a Russian rocket model classified as a subclass of "space tug." It is defined as a liquid-propellant orbit-insertion upper stage. In the broader context of space technology, it acts as a spacecraft vehicle designed to move payloads from a reference orbit to a target orbit or to direct them to an interplanetary trajectory.

### Technical Specifications
The technical architecture of the Briz-KM is defined by its distinct mass and propulsion properties.
- **Mass:** The stage has a total launch weight of 6,475 kilograms. Without propellant, the dry weight is 920 kilograms.
- **Propulsion:** The vehicle employs a complex arrangement of liquid-propellant engines:
  - **Main Engine:** 1 × S5.98M.
  - **Secondary Engines:** 4 × 11D458.
  - **Additional Thrusters:** 12 × 17D58E.
- **Identification:** It carries the GRAU index 14S45.

### Operational History and Manufacturing
The Briz-KM is produced by the Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Center. Its operational history began with its first flight in May 2000. As a product of the Russian space industry, it serves as a key element in the country's launch capabilities, facilitating the delivery of payloads to orbits that require propulsion assistance beyond the initial launch vehicle ascent.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.khrunichev.ru/main.php?id=50)