The new broadcasting and communications satellite, Express-AM3, was produced by NPO PM named after Academician M. Reshetnev jointly with Alcatel Space (Thales Alenia Space) under the order of Russian Satellite Communications Company. The satellite was manufactured in the context of the Program for Renovation of National Constellation to be executed over a time period of 2002–2005.

The satellite is designed to provide a package of communications services (digital TV, telephony, videoconferencing, data transmission, the Internet access) and to deploy satellite networks by applying VSAT technology.

The Express-AM3 spacecraft is equipped with up-to-date antenna systems, that provide high-quality communications and uniform coverage.

Sberbank of the Russian Federation takes an active part in financing the Program for Renovation of National Constellation.

The satellite was de-orbited and moved to an orbital graveyard on March 17th, 2022.