It was part of the 21-satellite Global Positioning System (GPS) Block II series that provides precise position data (accurate to within 16 m) to military and civilian users worldwide.

The GPS II satellites, built by Rockwell International for the Air Force Space Systems Division, each have a 7.5-year design life.

The Air Force intends to launch a GPS II every 2 to 3 months until the constellation of 21 operational satellite and 3 spares is aloft.

The satellite raised itself into medium Earth orbit using a Star-37XFP apogee motor.

[6] The satellite had a mass of 840 kg (1,850 lb), and generated 710 watts of power.