Soyuz 2.1v | VNIIEM EMKA (Kosmos 2525)

The payload for the Soyuz-2-1v launch is a small reconnaissance satellite developed by VNIIEM and known by the acronym EMKA ("Experimental Small Space Apparatus"). Launch was originally scheduled for October and then slipped to November, December and eventually January due to technical problems with the payload.

The Russian Space Forces are a branch of the Russian Aerospace Forces, that provides aerospace warning, air sovereignty, and protection for Russia. Having been reestablished following August 1, 2015 merger between the Russian Air Force and the Russian Aerospace Defence Forces after a 2011 dissolving of the branch. The Russian Space Forces were originally formed on August 10, 1992 and the creation of the Russian Armed Forces.