The Soyuz-5 launch vehicle has integrated an eight-core Elbrus processor, developed by MCST, into its ground control system. Roscosmos head Dmitry Bakanov confirmed that these domestic computing units are already operational within the ground-based segment of the rocket complex.
The implementation required a complete overhaul of the software stack to accommodate the Elbrus architecture, replacing previous platforms like ARM, SPARC, and PowerPC. This transition resulted in reduced power consumption and improved data exchange speeds across the system components.
Plans are underway to equip two additional Soyuz-5 rockets with Elbrus-based solutions for test flights scheduled for 2027. The inaugural test launch of the vehicle occurred on April 30, 2026, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome as part of the Baiterek project.
Industry experts note that utilizing the Elbrus architecture necessitates rigorous validation of drivers, bootloaders, and memory management to ensure real-time performance. Following the suspension of production by TSMC in 2022, manufacturing has resumed in a partner country, supporting potential mass adoption.
