The 2.1b version adds an upgraded engine (RD-0124) with improved performance to the second stage. First launch took place from Plesetsk Cosmodrome Site 43 on 26 July 2008 with a classified military payload. The 2.1b/ST version is sometimes called Soyuz ST-B.
Progress Rocket Space Centre, formerly known as TsSKB-Progress, is a space science and aerospace research company which is known for manufacturing launch vehicles and satellites. Most notably, Progress Rocket Space Centre is the manufacturer of Soyuz launch vehicles.
Hispasat 36W-1, also known as Hispasat AG-1, is a Spanish geostationary communications satellite. Joining the Hispasat fleet, this 3200 kg satellite is to operate in orbit for 15 years, providing its multimedia services to Europe, the Canary Islands and South America.
Geostationary Transfer OrbitThe 3rd and 4th In Orbit Validation satellites of the Galileo constellation. The Galileo constellation is ESA's satellite navigation system and is expected to be completed by 2020. Galileo will provide Europe with an alternative to the American GPS and Russian GLONASS constellations, but will be interoperable with both systems.
Medium Earth Orbit