On 2 July 2013, at 8:38 am, during the launch from platform 81 at Baikonur Cosmodrome there was an accident with an item 8k82km – a carrier rocket Proton-M with three Glonass satellites due to which it fell down, caught fire and exploded. Investigations Department (with the rights of directorate) of the Russia’s Investigative Committee at Baikonur has launched a criminal investigation into signs of a crime under part 1 of article 216 of the RF Criminal Code (violation of safety rules during operation).

According to investigators the carrier rocket Proton-M with three Glonass satellites were destroyed. The satellites were manufactured under federal target-specific program Global Navigation System approved by Government Resolution No 237 of 07.03.1995 financed by federal budget. This way, the state suffered loss on a large scale.

At present a number of investigating operations are underway to find all the circumstances of the accident and persons at fault. Investigators are studying the corresponding documents, interviewing staff responsible for preparing and direct launch of the rocket. A number of expert examinations to find the exact reason of the accident are being contemplated. Investigation of criminal case is ongoing.

Head of Media Relations                                                                                                  V.I. Markin