[Satellite TODAY 07-29-11] SES Astra has signed a long-term satellite capacity agreement with U.K. commercial broadcaster ITV to renew its existing capacity lease and provide additional capacity to support future development with ITV’s channel offering, the operator announced July 28.

   ITV currently utilizes six transponders to service the United Kingdom and Ireland at Astra’s 28.2 degrees East orbital position. The new contract will progressively activate three more for a total of nine leased transponders.

   “Continuing to exploit our content offer across platforms is a core part of ITV’s Transformation Plan and, in addition to renewing our existing capacity, this new agreement gives ITV additional flexibility for future development and growth on satellite,” ITV CTO Paul Dale said in a statement.

Financial terms of the lease agreement were not disclosed.