It is the 12th Meridian satellite to fly. It is named 22L, because ISS Rechetnyov (the manufacturer) numbering system starts from 11. The letter L is added to indicate that it is a flight unit. Meridians are new generation telecommunications satellites intended to ensure communications with ships and planes operating in the Arctic Ocean, as well as with stations based in the Far East and Siberia. These satellites are dual-purpose - they are primarily used for military telecommunications but will also be used for civil applications.