[Reno89519]

A reliable vehicle, even in an emergency. Stark reminder that the US gave up our space flight (hopefully temporarily) and that the Soviets much-derided capability still works. EVEN IN AN EMERGENCY.

[Calvin Locke]

True, but NASA demanded that safety alterations be made to the design.

Goes back to the initial ISS plan back when the SST was the main conveyance, and the Russian craft was going to be the emergency escape vehicle for the 3-person crew living there.