A medium-lift launch vehicle (MLV) is a rocket launch vehicle that is capable of lifting between 2,000 to 20,000 kg (4,400 to 44,100 lb) by NASA classification or between 5,000 to 20,000 kilograms (11,000 to 44,000 lb) by Russian classification[1] of payload into low Earth orbit (LEO).

The Soviet R-7 family was based on the world's first intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM).

Sputnik was a small-lift derivative that carried the first satellite into orbit, and the R-7 design quickly grew in capacity, with Luna launching in 1958.

SpaceX introduced the Falcon 9 in 2010, designed to be a partially reusable launch vehicle.

Falcon 9 underwent iterative upgrades and completed the first propulsive landing of an orbital rocket stage in 2015.