The Soyuz-TMA version was designed for use as a lifeboat for the International Space Station. It incorporated several changes to accomodate NASA requirements, including more latitude in the height and weight of the crew and improved parachute systems. Soyuz serial number 211 was the first built to the TMA configuration, with first flight planned for March 2003.

Craft.Crew Size: 3. Design Life: 14 days. Orbital Storage: 180.00 days. Total Length: 7.5 m. Maximum Diameter: 2.7 m. Total Habitable Volume: 9.00 m3. Total Mass: 7,250 kg. Total Propellants: 900 kg. Primary Engine Thrust: 400 kgf. Main Engine Propellants: N2O4/UDMH. Main Engine Isp: 305 sec. Total spacecraft delta v: 390 m/s. Electric system: 0.60 total average kW. Electrical System: Solar panels, span 10.60 m, area 10.00 sq. m.

The Alpha lifeboat was based on the Zarya reentry vehicle with a solid retrofire motor and cold gas thruster package. The design was rejected in favor of use of modified Soyuz TM in short term, US X-38 in long term.