All five satellites in the series were retired and operated an average of almost 4 years beyond their life expectancies.

The separation of the beam by directional antenna allowed this dual use of the frequency, significantly increasing the capacity of satellite communication within an assigned frequency range.

Although the initial requirement Intelsat VAT series was only for the Atlantic service, but also was given special attention during the project to provide service on the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean.

The weight of the satellite, which had an orbiting life project of 7 years, was about 3,335 pounds (1,513 kg).

The satellite was successfully launched into space on January 29, 1976, by means of an Atlas-Centaur vehicle from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, United States.