Sea Launch User's Guide

RD-171 engine
The RD-171 engine, which powers Stage 1, burns liquid oxygen (LOX)
and kerosene (see fig. 2-3). It provides an impressive 1.6 million lb of
thrust at liftoff and is one of the most powerful engines developed in the
world. The LOX tank is positioned above the kerosene tank and the
lower dome of the LOX tank is located in the concave top of the kerosene
tank. A single turbo pump feeds four thrust chambers. Four differentially
gimbaled thrust nozzles provide directional control during Stage 1 flight.
Figure 2-3. RD-171 Stage 1 Engine
265807J3-038
REV B D688-10009-1 2-5