AFN to Reduce Satellite Services in 2026 with Streaming Option Available

Attention all AFN customers! If you’re tired of dealing with satellite dishes and long cable runs, we’ve got some exciting news for you. Starting in March 2026, AFN TV services will be switching over to internet protocol (IP) delivery for land-based forces. But you don’t have to wait until then to enjoy the benefits of this change. The AFN Now app was rolled out last year, and it’s available for free on Apple and Google play stores. You can use it on your smart devices, smart TVs, and streaming devices like Amazon Firestick, Roku, or Apple TV.

This switch to IP delivery will not only provide more channels and content but also save more than $9 million per year. AFN Now is already up and running, offering live news, sports channels, and on-demand programming. And the good news doesn’t stop there. AFN is working on delivering its full suite of services to distribution partners operating cable TV systems on military installations.

By making this change, AFN aims to provide better service to service members, families, and civilians serving overseas. Instead of just eight channels, users now have access to a wide range of content. For example, AFN Now offered every NFL game last year, including the playoffs.

AFN Now has hit some impressive milestones. By the end of 2024, it had over 100,000 registered users and had clocked over 1 million hours watched. As of February 2025, the app has grown to over 108,000 registered users.

Erik Brazones, the AFN HQ Program Manager at DMA, emphasized that this transition is all about meeting the audience’s needs. With its hybrid streaming platform, AFN Now offers various types of content, including Video-on-Demand, Simulcast, Sports recordings, and Interest-based VOD through FAST.

Overall, AFN Now brings you over 500 TV series, movies, sporting events, and specials every week, covering all major events and leagues. And the best part? It’s completely free for authorized users to download and stream on up to four devices simultaneously.

To ensure secure access, users need to go through an authentication process in the AFN Now User Registration Portal. This process validates users against DEERS to ensure they are authorized to use the service.

While most AFN industry partners have granted digital rights for streaming content, some providers still have restrictions. So, the user experience may vary slightly for on-base and off-base users. But AFN is continually working to expand digital rights for a more seamless experience.

AFN is not stopping at streaming content. Future plans include expanding FAST Channels and improving the overall TV experience for its audience. So, get ready to enjoy a whole new way of watching your favorite shows and events with AFN Now!