He adds that the newer version has a shorter launch time, better deterrent capability, and that it is a two-stage rocket using solid fuel that is highly maneuverable.

VOA: standard.2009.12.18

"After a good flight of the solid boosters and core cryogenic stage, there was a problem with the upper stage and the desired orbit was not attained, " Arianespace Chairman and CEO Jean-Marie Luton announced after the mission.

CNN: Ariane rocket puts satellites in defective orbit

Historically, Baidu has been on solid fundamental ground on the earnings stage.

FORBES: Baidu Earnings Watch: Implieds Spike, Investors Optimistic

The second stage, which burns a solid fuel, was produced by South Korean engineers.

BBC: South Korea halts rocket launch