It was launched at 22:13 UTC on May 15, 2012 (5:13 am on May 16 in the Vietnam time zone) at the European Spaceport in Kourou in French Guiana in South America and entered orbit 35 minutes later.

The project aims to bring independence in satellite communications for Vietnam, besides other benefits such as enhancing national security, opening new economic opportunities, etc.

Vietnam hopes for some economic benefits from the telecommunications links that the satellite will provide.

It will provide communication for fishermen at sea, deliver weather forecasts and ensure defence security.

The satellite costs about US$280 million and weighing 3,000 kilograms (6,600 lb), was constructed by US-based Lockheed Martin.