Russian-language Current TV secures distribution via M7 Group

Canal+-owned, Luxembourg-based M7 Group has struck an agreement with the US Agency for Global Media (USAGM) for the satellite distribution of Russian language channel Current Time TV in HD via both the Astra satellite position at 19.2° East and Eutelsat E9B.

The channel is a 24/7 Russian-language TV and digital network, providing live news, debate, and fact-based reporting on local, regional, and international issues, aimed at audiences in Russia, the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, and around the world. It is produced by Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in collaboration with Voice of America.

Over last year, Current Time signed over 50 new media partners in countries including Estonia, Lithuania, and Moldova. Current Time television content is also complemented by a digital component that connects with global audiences via social media and other platforms. In the past year, Current Time’s online videos have been viewed a record four billion times.

Following the agreement with M7, Current Time TV will be distributed free-to-air via Astra at 19.2° East, which reaches over 95 million TV homes, including close to 40 million DTH households. M7 said Astra distribution allows Current Time TV to substantially enlarge its viewing audience among Russian-language homes in Europe.

As part of the agreement, Current Time TV will be listed in the EPGs of M7’s satellite DTH pay TV services Canal Digitaal, TV Vlaanderen, TéléSAT, HD Austria and Skylink, all fully or partially operating via Astra at 19.2° East. Current Time TV will soon be available as a linear OTT channel via the M7 platforms in Hungary (Direct One) and Romania (Focus Sat), as well.

In addition, Current Time TV will broadcast via Eutelsat E9B at 9° East for inclusion in the M7 Germany Russian language package, as well as for encrypted third-party delivery within its Europe-wide footprint.