Eutelsat signs deal with Afghanistan Broadcasting System

Eutelsat has signed a multi-year, multi-transponder contract with Afghanistan Broadcasting System (ABS) to provide video capacity via its Eutelsat 53A satellite.

ABS will use Eutelsat 53A’s Ku-band resources over Central Asia to provide nationwide coverage for its new DTH platform, Oqaab HD+.

The capacity will also enable ABS to extend its DTT network from Kabul to all other Afghan provinces by feeding DTT network headends.

“With our new teleport in Kabul, we provide better signal quality for the local broadcasters across Afghanistan at compelling terms,” said Andi Wilmers, ABS’s chief operating officer.

“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 and other products to customers across the country.”

Eutelsat’s chief commercial and development director, Michel Azibert, said: “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 and ubiquitous coverage, as well as the growth opportunities in developing video markets.”