The project is based on the SS-18 ICBM, the world’s most powerful ballistic missile. The key components of the programme are the fleet of over 115 SS-18 (Satan) suitable for conversion into space launch vehicles, and four silos and all the required equipment deployed at Baikonur. To implement the programme the International Space Company Kosmotras was established in 1997 to be the project lead managing and marketing entity. Dnepr has a launch mass of 211 tons and the payload maximum mass of 4.5 tons. The first orbital launch of Dnepr-1 took place in April 1999. Thiokol Propulsion (USA) provides marketing support to Kosmostras.