Kirkland, Wash. - Clearwire, the operator of a wireless, high-speed Internet access service, announced on Thursday that it has signed agreements with the nation's two satellite TV broadcasters -- DirecTV and EchoStar Communications, which operates the DISH Network -- that will enable the satellite firms to offer high-speed Internet access to their subscribers.

In turn, Clearwire will be able to offer the video services of one or both of the companies to its customers.

Under the deal, all three companies will be able to offer high-speed Internet, video and voice services in Clearwire markets, with a launch planned for later this year.

"By expanding the reach of our services through DIRECTV and EchoStar, and by incorporating direct-to-home satellite video services in our own distribution channels, we believe we have an opportunity to significantly expand our business opportunity," said Clearwire president and CEO Perry Satterlee.

Founded in 2003, Kirkland, Wash.-based Clearwire currently offers service in 39 U.S. markets, covering around 9.9 million people in 13 states.

Its service is also offered in Ireland, Belgium, Mexico and Denmark.

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http://www.directv.com

http://www.dishnetwork.com

http://www.clearwire.com