Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES), the global leader in broadband satellite solutions and services, has signed an agreement with Airbus Defence and Space to expand their business partnership to serve growing tactical military communications requirements around the globe.

Under the agreement, Airbus Defence and Space will distribute all models of the Hughes HM System, a flexible satellite networking technology engineered around its software-definable modem (SDM) and scrambled code multiple access (SCMA) waveform. Enabling affordable, resilient solutions for various mobility and portable government user requirements, the HM System’s ultra-compact terminals operate over Airbus Defence and Space’s highly secure Skynet X-band military communications satellite. Hughes will also provide hardware, technology and engineering support related to use of the HM System.

Additionally, Hughes will offer Skynet services to U.S. government users requiring easily deployable and resilient satellite communications for tactical missions, bringing innovative networking solutions to more U.S. users as well as customers around the globe.

“The continued strategic relationship with Airbus Defence and Space along with Tampa Microwave’s ruggedized packaging of innovative Hughes technology will open new opportunities in the growing tactical defense market,” said Rick Lober, Vice President and General Manager, Hughes Defense and Intelligence Systems. “It builds on the early success of our joint delivery of combined HM System and XEBRA services, exemplifying the critical role that satellite providers play in supporting the rapidly changing, national security landscape around the world.”

About Hughes Network Systems

Hughes Network Systems, LLC (Hughes) is the global leader in satellite broadband for home and office, delivering innovative solutions and a comprehensive suite of HughesON™ managed services for enterprises and governments worldwide. HughesNet® is the #1 high-speed satellite Internet service in the marketplace, with offerings to suit every budget. To date, Hughes has shipped more than 5 million systems to customers in over 100 countries, representing approximately 50 percent market share. Its products employ global standards approved by the TIA, ETSI and ITU organizations, including IPoS/DVB-S2, RSM-A, and GMR-1.

Headquartered outside Washington, D.C., in Germantown, Maryland, USA, Hughes operates sales and support offices worldwide, and is a wholly owned subsidiary of EchoStar Corporation (NASDAQ: SATS), a premier global provider of satellite operations and digital TV solutions. For additional information about Hughes, please visit www.hughes.com.

About EchoStar

EchoStar Corporation (NASDAQ: SATS) is a premier global provider of satellite and video delivery solutions. Headquartered in Englewood, Colo., and conducting business around the globe, EchoStar is a pioneer in secure communications technologies through its EchoStar Satellite Services, EchoStar Technologies Corporation and Hughes Network Systems business segments.

For more information, visit echostar.com. Follow @EchoStar on Twitter.