Germantown, Md., February 20, 2007-Hughes Network Systems, LLC (HUGHES) today announced that it has been named North American Space & Communications Company of the Year by global growth consulting company, Frost & Sullivan. The prestigious award is presented only to companies that demonstrate and exemplify the criteria set forth by Frost & Sullivan, such as technology innovation, market potential, proof of success, strategic marketing, revenue growth, new market penetration, visibility, and leadership.

"We have seen Hughes continuously exhibit outstanding leadership and execute innovative strategies over the last several years, resulting in significant market growth," said Tim Street, industry analyst, Frost & Sullivan. "Hughes' transition to managed services has allowed them to add enormous value to both existing and potential customers by fully maximizing the potential of different broadband technologies."

"Frost & Sullivan is one of the industry's leading growth consulting companies and we are honored to be selected for this prestigious award," said Pradman Kaul, Chairman and CEO of Hughes. "Innovation, technological advancement, and strategic market penetration are core strengths of Hughes. We greatly appreciate being recognized within the industry as the Company of the Year."

Since introducing the first Ku-band VSAT (very small aperture terminal) network over 20 years ago, Hughes has been leading the way in technological advances and innovative service offerings. Its HughesNet^® brand integrates both terrestrial and satellite broadband solutions into a fully managed service, offering its enterprise customers reliable broadband solutions and market-leading hybrid technology all from a single service provider.

Hughes’ current offerings include:

• HughesNet Managed Network Services-which combines satellite and terrestrial technologies as part of the High Availability VPN, Optimized VPN , and Access Continuity Services;
• HughesNet Digital Media Services-providing digital signage, business IPTV, content distribution, and employee training; and
• HughesNet ISP Services-full-service ISP service including reliable Internet connectivity and a suite of enhanced services such as customized start pages, domain hosting, personalized Web addresses, blogging, and advanced hosting.