Pivdenmash state-run enterprise (Dnipro) will start production of Zenit launch vehicles in the interests of Sea Launch and Land Launch projects suspended in 2014 after financing of the programs is resumed by the customer.
“Pivdenmash has not forwarded any additional requirements or conditions on continuation of the Sea Launch and Land Launch programs and would not do this. Suspended production of Zenit launch vehicles will continue at once after financing of the programs by the customer is resumed”, the press service of Pivdenmash said, commenting on media reports that Zenit launch vehicle production allegedly was halted.
The press service said that production of Zenit launch vehicles was suspended by Pivdenmash in 2014 due to financial problems the operators of the Sea Launch and Land Launch faced.
Today the Pivdenmash’s portfolio of orders has contracts to make 12 Zenit launch vehicles, including four vehicles for Sea Launch and six for Land Launch.
“Pivdenmash welcomes any actions on resumption of the Sea Launch and Land Launch programs”, the press service said.
Russian media reported that participants of the project – Russia’s Rocket and Space Corporation Energia and U.S. Boeing – settled a commercial dispute over the Sea Launch program.
Russian media reported that the only thing that allegedly hinders the development of the Sea Launch program is termination of production of Zenit launch vehicles by Pivdenmash.
As reported, in September 2015, the United States District Court for the Central District of California satisfied an action filed by Boeing seeking $356 million in reimbursement from the other Sea Launch partners, including Ukraine’s Pivdenmash. (Interfax/Business World Magazine)