The BBC is planning to launch a standalone subscription VOD service that would showcase the "best of British" television to American audiences.
BBC director general Lord Tony Hall announced the plans in a speech last week.
"We're launching a new over-the-top video service in America offering BBC fans programmes they wouldn't otherwise get - showcasing British actors, our programme-makers - and celebrating our culture," said Lord Hall.
Lord Hall says the move will boost income for the BBC, which the network will use to continue and improve the quality of their offerings.
"We need to raise commercial income to supplement the licence fee so we can invest as much as possible in content for UK audiences," he said.
"Without that income, we can't continue what we already do for the UK in drama or natural history."
The launch of a new standalone SVOD offering by the BBC will not effect the corporation's existing contracts with US networks and streaming services like Netflix.
"The subscription service will complement our existing footprint in the USA. Other video streaming services remain an important part of our business plan to ensure we bring the best of British to our audiences," a spokesperson for the BBC clarified.
