The APSTAR 9 CDR(Critical Design Review) was conducted successfully. After this milestone, the design phase is completed and manufacturer will start the manufacturing, integration and test phase. The progress and schedule are in line with the predication.

On 22 November 2013, APT Satellite (HK) entered into contract for manufacturing, delivery and launching of the APSTAR 9 Satellite. The Contractor is a wholly-owned subsidiary of China Great Wall Industry Corporation in Hong Kong, The satellite is planned to launch and commence service in Q4 2015.

About APSTAR 9: a DFH-4 series platform provided by CASC (China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation).  APSTAR 9 will be located at 142E orbital slot to replace APSTAR 9A satellite.  APSTAR 9 is equipped with 32 C-band and 14 Ku-band transponders. C-band transponder consists of one broad beam for Asia Pacific region and one enhanced beam for South East Asia, suitable for video broadcast, VSAT networks and cellular backhaul services, Ku-band will cover West Pacific and East India Ocean region, providing DTH, VSAT, maritime and inflight connectivity services.