EchoStar Communications and its Dish Network are now offering The Pentagon Channel.

Launched in May 2004, the network will provide information about the Defense Department and military 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Programming includes "Around the Services," an insider's view about what is happening in each branch of the military; "Studio Five," featuring conversations with leaders in the Defense Department; and "Focus on the Force," which will highlight current military missions.

The channel will be provided for free, but may be on a second-dish tier in some areas.