The Russian Soyuz launch vehicle evolved out of the original Class A ("Sputnik") ICBM designed by Sergei Korolev and his OKB-1 design bureau (now RSC Energia).  From the early 1960's until today, the Soyuz launch vehicle has been the backbone of Russia's manned and un-manned space launch fleet.  Today, the Soyuz launch vehicle is marketed internationally by a joint Russian / French consortium called STARSEM.  To date, there have been three Soyuz missions under the STARSEM banner.

Work is underway to develop the Soyuz 2 and Soyuz Fregat - upgraded versions of the current Soyuz and Molniya vehicles.  Plans called for engine performance improvements to the first stage core and liquid strap-on boosters, a new second stage based on the RD-0124 staged combustion LOX / kerosene engine, a new flight control system and the addition of an Ariane 4 payload fairing option.   It is not known when the Soyuz 2 and Soyuz Fregat vehicles will enter service.