French broadcast services company towerCast has selected International Datacasting Corp. as its technology partner for the expansion of its radio broadcast network based in France.

According to IDC, the initial order is valued at approximately $2 million, and the contract is expected to increase as the network grows to include more French radio groups. TowerCast currently manages a network of close to 550 sites nationwide.

The initial order for NRJ Group French FM networks, said the company, includes a redundant IDC headend and multiple SuperFlex Pro Audio and Star Pro Audio satellite receivers for IP transport that together provide a hybrid network solution. This set-up will enable NRJ Group radio networks to provide regionalized and local ad insertion, and local programming in key markets, while allowing access by multiple transmission tower operators.

According to a release, towerCast is looking to extend its reach into new markets. The proposed network platform, explains IDC, will provide enhanced security and reliability within a comprehensive end-to-end satellite audio distribution model.

Raphael Eyraud, towerCast’s head of International & Radio Department said, “This state-of-the-art platform will meet all of our requirements for national and regional growth in radio content distribution.”