BSkyB and Channel Five Broadcasting Ltd. have today announced plans to launch Five HD on the UK’s leading satellite platform this July. Sky plans to add a number of HD channels in the next few months, bringing its total number of HD channels to 42.

March 17, 2010 — As part of a surge in its HD offerings this year, Sky will begin broadcasting Five HD this July. The commercially funded channel “Five” currently broadcasts a range of soaps including “Neighbours” and “Home & Away”, as well as US drama series such as “CSI” and “Law and Order”. On top of that, the channel broadcasts top films and international sporting events such as Europa League football. Sky has recently announced plans to expand the number of channels available through its Sky+HD service. Subscribers currently have access to 37 channels, but a string of channel launches over the next few months — including ITV1 HD and Sky News HD — will bring the broadcaster’s total to 42. Sky’s aim is to reach 50 HD channels by Christmas 2010.