Systems tests of Angara-5 heavy launch vehicle (LV) have been completed at the launch site of Plesetsk cosmodrome, RIA Novosti reports with reference to the official representative of the Aerospace Defense Forces, Alexey Zolotukhin.

“The team of Plesetsk cosmodrome has completed the system tests of multi purpose launch site designed for Angara launch vehicle,” Zolotukhin added.

In the course of the systems tests the cosmodrome’s specialists carried out a number of electric tests of systems and components of Angara-5 and launching equipment, tested a system responsible for fueling the LV with components of rocket propellant and checked the readiness of the multi-purpose launch site for the first launch of Angara-5 heavy LV.

Angara-5 LV has been removed from the launch pad of the multi purpose launch site and transferred to integration and test building, where the cosmodrome’s specialists started preparation of Angara-5 LV for the start of flight tests.

The first launch of Angara-5 heavy LV from the Plesetsk cosmodrome is scheduled for December 2014.

Angara Family is being developed by Khrunichev State Research and Production Space Centre; it comprises launch vehicles of different classes from light to heavy ones (payload varies from 1,5 to 35 tons). The first manned flight of heavy Angara launch vehicle is scheduled for 2018; the LV will be launched from Vostochny cosmodrome (Amur Region).

Roscosmos reported earlier that the new Angara LV would provide Russia with independent access to the space and allow reaching a new level of technology. The LV will be able to place heavy spacecraft into geostationary Earth orbit. All the components of the new rocket are manufactured in Russia providing the technological security. In addition, Angara will use eco-friendly fuel – oxygen and kerosene. Angara-A5 is able to place into orbit any spacecraft previously carried by Proton LV.