The "MS" stands for "modernized systems," reflecting upgrades primarily focused on the communications and navigation subsystems.

An evolution of the Progress M spacecraft, the Soyuz MS features minimal external changes, mainly in the placement of antennas, sensors, and thrusters.

Progress MS-01 conducted its maiden flight on 21 December 2015, heading to the International Space Station (ISS).

Like all previous variants, the Progress MS spacecraft consists of three distinct sections:[1] The Progress spacecraft’s uncrewed and disposable design enables significant weight reduction.

after completing its mission, the spacecraft undocks, performs a controlled retrofire, and burns up upon reentry into Earth's atmosphere.