HYLAS 1 Progress

Avanti Communications Group plc

HYLAS 1 Progress

Avanti Communications Group plc (AIM: AVN), the broadband satellite operator, is pleased to announce that it has completed Thermal Vacuum Testing ("TVAC") on its HYLAS 1 satellite.

TVAC is the most demanding phase of satellite testing and its completion confirms the satisfactory performance of the fully integrated satellite in accordance with Avanti's requirements.

Commenting, David Williams, Avanti Chief Executive, said:

"The on schedule completion of TVAC is a significant milestone. HYLAS 1 is one of the most advanced commercial satellites ever built and we are very happy with its performance and now looking forward to the launch of service in a few months time."

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For further information please contact:

Avanti Communications Group Plc Tel: +44 (0) 20 7749 1600

David Williams

Cenkos Securities Tel: +44 (0) 20 7397 8900

Julian Morse / Max Hartley

Jefferies International Limited Tel: +44 (0) 20 7029 8000

Rupert Mitchell / Oliver Griffiths

Redleaf Communications Ltd Tel: +44 (0) 20 7566 6700

Emma Kane / Paul Dulieu

Notes to Editors:

About Avanti

¡ Avanti sells satellite broadband services to telecoms companies which use them to supply residential, enterprise and institutional customers.

¡ Avanti's first satellite, called HYLAS 1 will launch in Q3 2010 and will be the first superfast broadband satellite launched in Europe.

¡ Avanti's second satellite called HYLAS 2 is fully funded and will launch in Q2 2012. It will extend Avanti's coverage to Africa and the Middle East.

¡ The market for satellite broadband products in the markets served by Avanti is estimated at more than 100 million households.

¡ Avanti's systems can provide consumer broadband services at speeds of 10Mb per second at competitive prices, and other wholesale services at up to 200Mb.