EchoStar Communications Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) and its DISH Network satellite TV service announced it is now offering the Pentagon Channel, the Defense Department's news and information network for and about the military. The Pentagon Channel, which was launched stateside on May 14, 2004, will now be distributed 24 hours a day, seven days a week to DISH Network satellite TV customers. The channel is provided to customers at no additional cost as part of DISH Network's public interest channels. A second satellite dish may be required.

"DISH Network serves consumers all across the country and many of our customers have a personal stake in the military," said Eric Sahl, vice president of Programming at EchoStar. "The Pentagon Channel will be especially appreciated by military service members and their families who live on or near U.S.-based military facilities."

The Pentagon Channel will provide DISH Network customers with Department of Defense news with top-of-the-hour updates, broadcasts of the flagship television news magazine programs from each of the services, and Department of Defense news briefings from the Pentagon and around the world. Additionally, the network will include appointment viewing with "Around the Services," a look at what's going on at each branch of the military, "Studio Five," showcasing conversations with Department of Defense leaders, and "Focus on the Force," which highlights military missions such as those in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"We appreciate DISH Network's decision to carry the new Pentagon Channel on their satellite TV system," said Larry DiRita, Department of Defense Spokesperson. "Their support helps us fulfill our mission of providing timely military news and information to the U.S. Armed Forces."

About EchoStar Communications Corporation

EchoStar Communications Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH) serves more than 11 million satellite TV customers through its DISH Network?, the fastest growing U.S. provider of advanced digital television services in the last four years. DISH Network offers hundreds of video and audio channels, Interactive TV, HDTV, sports and international programming, together with professional installation and 24-hour customer service. DISH Network ranks No. 1 in Customer Satisfaction among Cable/Satellite TV Subscribers by J.D. Power and Associates. Visit EchoStar's DISH Network at www.dishnetwork.com or call 1-800-333-DISH (3474).

About the Pentagon Channel

The Pentagon Channel broadcasts military news and information including Department of Defense news briefings, military news, interviews with top Defense officials, and short stories about the work of our military. In addition to enhancing Department of Defense communications with the 1.4 million Active Duty service members, the Pentagon Channel will provide the 1.2 million members of the National Guard and Reserve and the 650,000 civilian employees of the Department of Defense more timely access to military information and news. The Pentagon Channel television service is distributed 24/7 and is available to all stateside cable and satellite providers; via American Forces Radio and Television Service, overseas; and via webcast worldwide at www.pentagonchannel.mil.