DFH-3 telecom satellite is an indigenously-developed, third-generation telecom satellite up to international level in 1990s. Onboard this 2250kg satellite, there are 24 C-band communications transponders, of which including six 16 watt medium power transponders and eighteen 8 watt low-power transponders. With a planned service life of 8 years, this satellite is primarily used for domestic TV, telephones, telegraphs, faxes and data transmission services.

On May 12th, 1997, DFH-3 was successfully launched by CZ-3A carrier rocket and placed into Geostationary orbit of 125°E from Xichang Satellite Launch Centre.