To Be Replaced by 'Military Channel'

Well known for its aeronautically oriented program and outstanding visuals, the Discovery Wings Channel is about to be taken out of service. In its place, "The Military Channel" will emerge, replacing a favorite of the aviation community with programming that will be singly dedicated to all things military... including military aviation.

Discovery Wings was launched as a cable channel in July 1998. It focused on aviation and related subjects and became a cult favorite with airplane buffs the world over. On January 10th, it's gone. 

Discovery notes that, "While the Discovery Wings Channel focused exclusively on aviation, the Military Channel will feature a dramatically broadened programming mission, as well as an all-new, on-air look. The network's revamped lineup of series and specials is designed to take viewers 'behind the lines' to tell the personal stories of servicemen and women and offer in-depth explorations of military technology, battlefield strategy, aviation and history. The Military Channel will also provide access to military personnel and hardware, allowing viewers to experience and understand a world full of human drama, courage, innovation and long-held traditions."

"The Military Channel will represent the highest quality programming across a broad spectrum of military related genres that we believe consumers have a keen interest in learning more about," said Judith A. McHale, President and CEO of Discovery Communications. "In an increasingly fragmented marketplace, the Military Channel will broaden Discovery Communications' offerings and further differentiate our portfolio of emerging networks."

"We're very proud to introduce the Military Channel, a network that will apply the Discovery standards of quality, depth and storytelling to a topic of fascination and relevance in our world," said Billy Campbell, President of Discovery Networks U.S. "By covering all aspects of the military and the people who define it, we will extend the Discovery brand, create a service that appeals to our existing viewers, and attract new viewers and sponsors."

"Our viewers have a deep interest in military topics and people," said David Karp, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the channel. "Our mission is to tap into this passion by providing a high-quality lens that details contemporary and historical events, explores its human elements and highlights the strategic and technological advances that define the world of the armed forces."

Discovery Communications International (DCI), is a monster media entity comprising some 60 networks that encompass 19 entertainment brands (TLC, Travel Channel, Discovery Health Channel, Discovery Kids, etc...).

FMI: http://wings.discovery.com