Afghanistan Broadcasting System selects EUTELSAT 53A as its DTH platform

Eutelsat selected by Afghanistan Broadcasting System to provide capacity for new DTH platform

PARIS — Eutelsat Communications (Euronext Paris: ETL) and Afghanistan Broadcasting System (ABS) have signed a multi-year, multi-transponder contract for video capacity on the EUTELSAT 53A satellite.

ABS will use EUTELSAT 53A’s Ku-band resources over Central Asia to provide nationwide coverage for the launch of its new DTH platform, Oqaab HD+. This platform will be enriched in the coming months to carry a mix of national and premium international channels. The capacity will also enable ABS to extend its DTT network from Kabul to all other Afghan provinces by feeding DTT network head-ends.

Andi Wilmers, ABS’s Chief Operating Officer said: “With our new teleport in Kabul, we provide better signal quality for the local broadcasters across Afghanistan at compelling terms. Eutelsat’s resources over Afghanistan provide the needed signal strength so that people can receive all channels, even with a 45-cm satellite dish antenna. In 2019 we will offer enhanced services like Video on Demand (VOD) and other products to customers across the country.”

Michel Azibert, Eutelsat’s Chief Commercial and Development Director, added: “We are delighted to be supporting Afghanistan Broadcasting System in enriching the country’s TV landscape. This contract consolidates our presence in Afghanistan, where we have been present since 2014 in partnership with the Ministry of Communications in the data field. It also highlights the ability of satellite to deliver immediate