# EKS Kupol

> Russian early warning satellites

**Wikidata**: [Q5323248](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q5323248)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EKS_(satellite_system))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/eks-kupol

## Summary
EKS Kupol is a Russian early warning satellite system designed for ballistic missile detection, part of the broader Edinaya Kosmicheskaya Systema (EKS-3). It succeeded the Oko system and was developed by Kometa (payload) and S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia (spacecraft bus). The first flight occurred on November 17, 2015.

## Key Facts
- **Class**: Early warning satellite for ballistic missile detection
- **Operator**: Russian Aerospace Defence Forces
- **Developer**: Kometa (payload), S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia (spacecraft bus)
- **First flight**: November 17, 2015
- **Orbit**: Tundra orbit
- **Replaces**: Oko system
- **Aliases**: Edinaya Kosmicheskaya Systema (EKS-3)
- **GRaU Index**: 14Ф142
- **Manufacturer**: S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia
- **Country of origin**: Russia

## FAQs
### Q: What is the purpose of EKS Kupol?
A: EKS Kupol is a Russian early warning satellite system designed to detect ballistic missiles, serving as part of the country's missile defense infrastructure.

### Q: Who operates EKS Kupol?
A: The system is operated by the Russian Aerospace Defence Forces.

### Q: What system did EKS Kupol replace?
A: EKS Kupol succeeded the Oko system, which was previously used for early warning purposes.

### Q: What is the orbit of EKS Kupol satellites?
A: The satellites operate in a Tundra orbit, a type of highly elliptical orbit used for communication and early warning systems.

### Q: Who developed EKS Kupol?
A: The payload was developed by Kometa, while the spacecraft bus was developed by S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia.

## Why It Matters
EKS Kupol is a critical component of Russia's missile defense and early warning capabilities. By replacing the older Oko system, it enhances Russia's ability to detect and track ballistic missiles, contributing to national security. The system's deployment in a Tundra orbit ensures continuous coverage, making it a vital asset for Russia's defense infrastructure. Its development reflects advancements in Russian space technology and underscores the country's commitment to maintaining a robust early warning network.

## Notable For
- **Successor to Oko**: EKS Kupol represents an upgrade over the Oko system, providing improved early warning capabilities.
- **Tundra Orbit**: The use of a Tundra orbit allows for continuous coverage, a key advantage for early warning satellites.
- **Russian Aerospace Defense**: The system is operated by the Russian Aerospace Defence Forces, reinforcing Russia's missile defense strategy.
- **GRaU Index**: The system is designated with the GRaU index 14Ф142, indicating its classification and role in military space operations.
- **Collaborative Development**: The system was developed in collaboration between Kometa and S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia, showcasing integrated efforts in space technology.

## Body
### Overview
EKS Kupol is a Russian early warning satellite system designed for ballistic missile detection. It is part of the broader Edinaya Kosmicheskaya Systema (EKS-3) and succeeded the Oko system. The system was developed by Kometa for the payload and S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia for the spacecraft bus.

### Development and Deployment
- **First Flight**: The first flight of EKS Kupol occurred on November 17, 2015.
- **Orbit**: The satellites operate in a Tundra orbit, which provides continuous coverage and is optimal for early warning purposes.
- **Operator**: The system is operated by the Russian Aerospace Defence Forces.

### Technical Specifications
- **GRaU Index**: The system is designated with the GRaU index 14Ф142.
- **Manufacturer**: S.P. Korolev Rocket and Space Corporation Energia is responsible for the spacecraft bus.
- **Country of Origin**: Russia.

### Significance
- **Replacement of Oko**: EKS Kupol replaced the Oko system, which was previously used for early warning purposes.
- **Missile Defense**: The system plays a crucial role in Russia's missile defense strategy, enhancing the country's ability to detect and track ballistic missiles.

### Related Systems
- **Kosmos-2510 and Kosmos-2518**: These are part of the EKS Kupol system and contribute to its early warning capabilities.
- **US-KMO**: EKS Kupol is part of a broader class of Soviet and Russian early warning satellites, including the US-KMO system.

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