The average thrust is 9,604 pounds; maximum thrust level is approximately 14,200 pounds which results in a maximum longitudinal acceleration during second stage burning of 32g's for a 200 pound payload. Liftoff weight of the Terrier-Malemute launch vehicle, less payload, is approximately 3260 pounds. This vehicle is usually rail launched and can be accommodated at most established launch ranges.

The Terrier-Malemute vehicle is particularly suited for lower weight payloads; performance drops appreciably as payload weight increases. Bulbous diameter payloads can be accommodated on the Terrier-Malemute; however, the high dynamic pressures encountered by this vehicle result in high aerodynamic heating rates and high vehicle structural loads Thus, payload design characteristics must be carefully considered.