JPRS-TTP-89-0031: West Europe Telecommunications and Satellite Developments

This intelligence report, dated March 8, 1989, provides an overview of telecommunications and satellite infrastructure developments in Europe and Russia. The report highlights the Italian Telephone Company's efforts to expand the Videotel service, noting the introduction of new keyboard terminals by Philips Italy and the procurement of Omega 1,000 terminals from Italiel. A significant portion of the report focuses on the Italian company Telettra, a subsidiary of the Fiat Group, which successfully implemented telephone transmission systems in the Tula region of Russia. Telettra's technology is noted for its efficiency in low-density telephone zones, a capability previously demonstrated in Venezuela, Mexico, and Colombia. The document also covers developments in Spain, specifically the nation's project to launch a direct television broadcasting satellite. This project, which was revived in 1988, aims to have an operational system by July 1, 1992, to support the Seville World Fair and the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's discovery of America. The National Institute of Aerospace Technology (INTA) is managing the procurement process, with the director of international affairs, Jose M. Carballal, overseeing the selection of manufacturers. The report concludes by noting that the Spanish government accelerated the project following a feasibility study presented to the Minister of PTT, Mr. Barrionuevo.