The satellite had a mass at launch of 5,054 kilograms (11,142 lb), and is expected to operate for at least 15 years.

[5] Thales Alenia Space built Apstar-7 as an ITAR-free satellite, containing no restricted American components.

[6] The United States prohibits the export of satellite components when a Chinese launcher will be used.

Ironically, the US Department of Defense leased bandwidth on Apstar-7 in May 2012 to improve communications with the U.S. Africa Command.

[7] In 2013, Thales Alenia was forced to discontinue its ITAR-free satellite line after US supplier Aeroflex admitted that it had sold them ITAR-controlled components.