INSAT 3E is readied for its integration with elements of the Ariane launch vehicle.

INSAT-3E will be launched from Kourou, French Guyana by the European Ariane 5 launch vehicle.

INSAT-3E joins the European Space Agency's SMART-1 Moon exploration spacecraft. In addition to these two payloads, Flight 162 also will carry the e-BIRD Internet satellite for Eutelsat.