Vislink, the Dublin- and London-listed satellite television and communications group, has reported increased operating profit and growth in underlying sales and orders for 2007.

According to the company's trading statement, Vislink is predicting that adjusted operating profit for the year will be in line with expectations of £15.5 million (€20.8 million), up from £14.3 million the previous year.

Underlying orders received rose 10 per cent to £106 million, compared to £96.4 million in 2006. Underlying sales grew 7 per cent to £101 million, while headline sales were £98 million, compared to £100.5 million in 2006.

Vislink said its UK business made progress in the international broadcast markets during 2007, with Link Research's high-definition wireless camera products and Advent's share of the satellite news-gathering market fuelling growth. The US business, MRC, put in a strong performance in the US broadcast market for digital electronic news-gathering, while the contribution to profits of recent acquisition WTS was in line with expectations.

Vislink presented a promising 2008 outlook, starting the year with an order book of £36 million, up from £34.7 million in 2006.

Chief executive Ian Scott-Gall said Vislink planned to make strategic acquisitions, develop its sales offices in the Middle and Far East, and increase investment in research and development.

Vislink is expecting sales growth throughout the year, but warned that the weak US dollar could hit margins.