Arabsat complains of jamming from Ethiopia

Middle East satellite operator Arabsat has complained that a number of channels on its platform have been subject to jamming from Ethiopia over the last week.

According to Arabsat, its engineers have identified Ethiopia as the source of the problem which has targeted a number of Arabsat bouquets.

Arabsat does not carry either Ethiopian or Eritrean channels on its satellites but it has speculated that the jamming signals may be aimed at channels that broadcast from positions at or nearby its 26° East position on satellites over which it has no control.

The operator has informed both the ITU and the Arab League about the problem. Arabsat says it will take “all appropriate actions to prosecute the culprit” and will take legal action over “any damage already incurred or to be incurred” as a result of the jamming.