The History Channel – Launched on January 1, 1995, the channel is owned by A&E joint venture and operates, in various forms. The network is also currently available in South Asia under a deal between STAR TV and AETN International. Interestingly, the channel has consistently produced prime time ratings in the U.S. comparable to or higher than the A&E Network itself.In 2007 The History Channel launched. designed to foster relationships between U.S. military veterans and students; R. Lee Ermey is the spokesman for the initiative.