SES and ARD, Germany’s largest public broadcasting network, have officially extended their long-standing partnership through 2039. Announced on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, the renewed agreement ensures that ARD’s regional broadcasting organizations will continue transmitting their television programs in high-definition quality via SES’s flagship orbital position at 19.2 degrees East.
This decade-long commitment reinforces the stability of satellite distribution in the German media landscape for millions of viewers.
Long-Term Security for Satellite Households
The extension provides essential planning security for households across Germany that rely on Direct-to-Home (DTH) satellite reception. By securing the 19.2 degrees East neighborhood until the end of the next decade, ARD guarantees that its diverse array of news, sports, culture, and entertainment remains accessible to the widest possible audience. Deepak Mathur, President of Media at SES, emphasized that the agreement allows millions of daily viewers to continue using the platform reliably, maintaining the role of the Astra satellite system as a cornerstone of German broadcasting.
Satellite’s Role in a Hybrid Distribution Strategy
While streaming services continue to grow, ARD remains committed to a hybrid distribution mix where satellite transmission serves as a foundational component. Dr. Oliver Werner of the ARD Tech Unit noted that the agreement allows the network to offer easy and reliable access to all programming, regardless of regional infrastructure limitations. This strategic balance ensures that broadcast and digital platforms complement one another, providing universal coverage and high-quality HD content to all German citizens through the 2030s.
Strengthening SES’s European Media Portfolio
For SES, the renewal with one of Europe’s most valuable public broadcasters strengthens its contracted backlog and reduces customer churn risk. Following its acquisition of Intelsat earlier in the year, SES continues to leverage its prime video neighborhoods to deliver resilient, high-quality video content while expanding its multi-orbit connectivity services. This agreement with ARD highlights the enduring economic value of traditional linear broadcasting within the broader space and communications ecosystem.
