Channel Five is to launch its first high-definition channel following an agreement with BSkyB.
Five, which earlier this week admitted that it was too cash-strapped to launch an HD channel on Freeview before 2012, will launch in high definition on Sky's satellite service in July.
Five claimed that its programming, which includes the CSI franchise, FlashForward and The Mentalist, makes the Five HD service superior to rival services from ITV and Channel 4.
"Our programme schedule is more suited to HD than that any other major free-to-air commercial broadcaster given the wide range of high quality series we broadcast, such as our top-rated line-up of US dramas," said Charles Constable, Five's director of strategy. "We are delighted to begin our HD journey with Sky".
Five HD, which will broadcast shows including Neighbours, Home & Away and international cricket, will be available to the more than two million customers who have a Sky+ HD set top box.
Five's offering is the 42nd HD channel to commit to launching on BSkyB. ITV 1 HD, Sky News HD, Sky Sports HD 4 and Hallmark Channel HD are due to launch in the coming months. Sky is aiming to have 50 HD channels by Christmas.
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