Intelsat strikes trio of African deals

Satellite operator Intelsat has struck deals with three broadcasters for additional capacity over Africa in 2012.

Multichoice Africa has expanded its capacity on Intelsat 904 for contribution services, complementing its agreement for DTH capacity on Intelsat 7 at 68.5° East.

India-based Zee Entertainment is also to begin distributing programming via the Intelsat 10 and follow-on Intelsat 20 satellites from 68.5° East, with the latter due for launch in mid-2012.

Finally, Dubai-based Strong Technologies has renewed a multi-year deal to deliver DTH services via the Intelsat 10 satellite at 68.5° East. The service includes a mix of movies, sports, news and general interest content, with channels including Fox, BBC World and on popular local African channels.

Intelsat is planning further investment in capacity over Africa, with the launch of three satellites – Intelsat 20, 22 and 23 – planned over the next 10 months, complementing the launch of joint venture satellite Intelsat New Dawn to 32.8° East earlier this year.

Separately, Intelsat reported revenue of US$652.9 million (€474 million) and a net loss of of US$0.4 million for the quarter to September 30. The results included a US$20.2 million pre-tax exceptional charge from a loss on previously unconsolidated affiliates.