AVN.L Regulatory News (AVN)

5 Jun 2008 07:00



Date: 5 June 2008

On behalf of: Avanti Communications Group plc ("Avanti" or "the Company")

Embargoed until: 0700hrs

Avanti Communications Group plc

Contract Win

Avanti Communications Group Plc (AIM: AVN), the satellite operator, has been selected by the European Space Agency (ESA) to perform a €200,000 project to develop concepts for a European wide satellite based alerting system. 

The proposed system will make use of satellite communications solutions to alert and instruct European citizens in times of natural or man made crises and disasters such as floods, fires, industrial incidents or acts of terrorism. The project is part of preparatory activities for a new programme initiated by the ESA jointly with the European Commission, which aims to promote satellite based telecom services for the benefit of European Civil Protection. 

David Williams, Chief Executive of Avanti, said: 

"Satellite communication has a key role to play in the area of crisis management and business continuity. Satellite based solutions have the ability to serve wide areas, including users in remote and rural areas and have the ability to remain operational when other terrestrial networks fail. We have a strong record of working with ESA to develop and commercialise satellite services. This project has identified a very compelling niche service which is nonetheless global and could consume significant satellite resources."

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About Avanti Communications

About ESA

The European Space Agency (ESA) is an international organisation with 17 Member States headquartered in Paris. Its role includes the development of satellite-based technologies and services to ensure that investment in space continues to deliver ever more benefits to all the citizens of Europe. ESA works closely with all major space organisations inside and outside Europe.