Russia’s space agency Roscosmos announced successful ground testing of the first stage of its new Soyuz-5 rocket, a milestone in Moscow’s effort to expand its space and missile capabilities. The agency said the rocket’s powerful RD-171MV “Tsar-Engine” performed flawlessly during ground trials, operating for the intended 160 seconds. The results, Roscosmos added, allow preparations to begin for flight and design tests ahead of a planned launch in Kazakhstan this December. Following the announcement, President Vladimir Putin hinted that Russia may soon unveil a new strategic weapon, noting that trials of advanced systems have “gone well so far.” Speaking at a press conference in Dushanbe on October 10, Putin did not reveal details but emphasized that all projects are proceeding according to plan. His remarks come as Russia accelerates efforts to modernize both its space program and strategic weapons arsenal.