Ahead of next year's launch, Sky has signed technology and equipment suppliers - Sony, Tandberg Television and Harris Corporation - to support its forthcoming HDTV service.

Sky has revealed that Sony will be responsible for constructing a new HDTV studio at its West London HQ and supply additional equipment for edit suites and dubbing facilities at the same site. Tandberg Television will provide the encoding system. Harris Corporation’s D-Series Version 4 Air Automation System will support delivery of HDTV programming.

Alun Webber, BSkyB's Group Director of Engineering and Platform Technology, described the launch of HDTV as "the most significant development for BSkyB's broadcast infrastructure since the launch of Sky digital in 1998," adding that the supplier contracts would keep BSkyB on track to launch HDTV in 2006 and ensure that Sky customers continue to receive the highest-quality viewing experience available.

Further technology and equipment suppliers will be announced in coming months as BSkyB progresses its service development.