# Delta IV Grade 2 (5 m)
**Wikidata**: [Q16354303](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q16354303)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/delta-iv-grade-2-5-m

## Summary
Delta IV Grade 2 (5 m) is a subclass variant of the Delta IV expendable launch system, which is part of the broader Delta rocket family. It falls under the classification of a medium-lift launch vehicle designed to orbit payloads, utilizing the modular Common Booster Core technology developed by Boeing and later manufactured by United Launch Alliance.

## Key Facts
- **Classification**: Subclass of the Delta IV expendable launch system.
- **Family**: Part of the Delta rocket family.
- **System Origin**: United States.
- **Primary Manufacturer**: United Launch Alliance (2006–present); initially Boeing Defense, Space & Security (2002–2006).
- **System Debut**: The parent Delta IV system first flew on November 20, 2002.
- **Digital Footprint**: Has 1 sitelink, specifically in the Latvian (lv) language.
- **Technical Lineage**: Inherits the Common Booster Core design characteristic of the Delta IV family.

## FAQs
### What is Delta IV Grade 2 (5 m)?
Delta IV Grade 2 (5 m) is identified as a specific subclass of the Delta IV launch vehicle family. It is associated with the United States' medium-lift capabilities for space access.

### Who manufactured the Delta IV system?
While the specific subclass is part of the wider family, the Delta IV system itself was originally manufactured by Boeing Defense, Space & Security. Production was transitioned to United Launch Alliance in 2006, which continues to manage the rocket family.

### What distinguishes the Delta IV family technically?
The Delta IV family is distinguished by its use of the Common Booster Core, a modular design that allows for various configurations to meet different mission requirements. This flexibility supports a range of payloads from medium to heavy lift.

## Why It Matters
Delta IV Grade 2 (5 m) matters as a specific configuration within the Delta IV family, which serves as a critical infrastructure component for United States space operations. The parent system, Delta IV, represents a significant evolution in expendable launch technology, offering the modularity needed to support a wide array of national security, scientific, and commercial missions. By providing reliable and versatile access to orbit, this classification of launch vehicle helps maintain essential space capabilities and supports the competitiveness of the aerospace industry.

## Notable For
- Being a distinct subclass within the Delta IV medium-lift launch vehicle family.
- Belonging to a system that utilizes the Common Booster Core modular design.
- Being part of a launch family that transitioned manufacturing from Boeing to United Launch Alliance.
- Existing as a specific entry in the knowledge base with a Latvian language sitelink.

## Body
### Parent System Context
Delta IV Grade 2 (5 m) is a subclass of the **Delta IV** rocket family. Delta IV is an expendable launch system developed to carry payloads into orbit. The system is classified as a medium-lift launch vehicle and originated in the United States. As part of the Delta rocket family, it represents a generation of rockets designed for versatility and reliability in delivering assets to space.

### Development and Manufacturing History
The Delta IV program was initially managed and manufactured by **Boeing Defense, Space & Security**. The system's first flight took place on **November 20, 2002**. In 2006, production and manufacturing responsibilities were transferred to **United Launch Alliance** (ULA), which became the sole manufacturer for the remainder of the program's operational life.

### Variants and Configurations
The Delta IV family was designed with modular flexibility, centered around the **Common Booster Core**. This allowed for several distinct variants to meet specific payload requirements. Known variants of the Delta IV family include:
- Delta IV Medium
- Delta IV Medium+(4,2)
- Delta IV Medium+(5,2)
- Delta IV Medium+(5,4)
- Delta IV Small (cancelled prior to production)
- Delta IV Heavy

Delta IV Grade 2 (5 m) exists within this taxonomy as a specific subclass, related to the system's 5-meter payload fairing capabilities and two-strap-on configuration implied by its grade designation.

### Applications and Significance
The Delta IV system has been utilized for a broad spectrum of missions, including national security launches, scientific exploration, and commercial satellite deployment. Its development marked a significant advancement in modular rocket design, ensuring that the United States maintained dependable access to space for critical missions. The official website for the rocket family is hosted by United Launch Alliance at https://www.ulalaunch.com/rockets/delta-iv.