NEWs in Brief..............

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*HNS Enters Russian Market with Thuraya - Hughes Network Systems entered into a letter of intent for the establishment of satellite-enabled Thuraya mobile telephone service in Russia. HNS will supply the Thuraya communications gateway and network management system, in addition to manufacturing Thuraya phones.

*Animal Planet in Germany - German broadcaster RTL II and Discovery Communications announced the launch of Animal Planet in Germany as part of a new branded programming block. RTL II is showcasing a two-hour Animal Planet block every Sunday, and will launch with the series The Crocodile Hunter and The Jeff Corwin Experience.

*In preparation for the Summer Olympic Games in Athens next year, an alliance was formed between Gearhouse Broadcast, global satellite transmission provider GlobeCast, and Greek production company Stefi Productions. The companies said they formed the alliance in a bid to create a one-stop service for non-rights holders covering the games, although ancillary services will be provided for rights holders.