MTS looking to launch satellite service, eyes Raduga TV

Russian service provider MTS plans to launch a satellite service and is in talks to buy troubled DTH pay TV operator Raduga TV, according to local reports. 

MTS has reportedly confirmed that it is talks on the purchase of Raduga TV’s holding company Dalgeokom, jointly owned by Modern Times Group and Russia’s Continental Media, although neither of the latter have commented.

Raduga TV has run into problems over allegedly operating in the country without an appropriate licence. Last month, the Russian interior ministry launched a criminal investigation into the operator following a request by media regulator Roskomnadzor. At the same time the company’s CEO, Olga Abramova, resigned.

Raduga TV will also be affected by an amendment to the country’s media law limiting foreign ownership to 20% that could force MTG to sell its stake.