3 April 2022
Skykraft is pleased to officially announce the appointment of Michael Frater as its new CEO. Michael brings a wealth of experience in contracting, government and infrastructure to Skykraft’s leadership team, most recently through his work with UNSW’s Canberra City Campus and the Canberra Cyber Hub.
Skykraft is currently focused on the development and deployment of a space-based Air Traffic Management (ATM) service, manufacturing the 200+ satellites that will make up the constellation in its new manufacturing facility in Canberra.
Michael will play a crucial role in the implementation of the satellite constellation, overseeing a substantial ramp-up in Skykraft’s satellite manufacturing. Skykraft will complete 5 satellites by 30 June 2022, with a further 14 satellites produced before the mid 2023. Manufacturing will then increase to build 210 satellites providing global coverage in Skykraft’s first constellation.
The first satellites will be launched later this year by SpaceX from Florida. This launch of a 300kg payload will be the largest ever Australian manufactured space payload, a proud achievement by Skykraft and an indication of the growing maturity of the Australian space industry.
Fortunately, Skykraft and Michael are already well-known to each other as Michael was previously a Skykraft board member. This strong relationship among the leadership team will keep Skykraft’s culture strong and enable the rapid build up in our capabilities. Michael has already been onboard for a couple of weeks with Skykraft and was on hand for the recent opening of our manufacturing facility.
For more information about Skykraft, please visit: www.skykraft.com.au
-ENDS-
Interviews with Skykraft CEO Michael Frater available on request.
For media enquiries please contact: Joe Andrews | 0402914122
About Skykraft
Skykraft is an Australian space services company based in the ACT that specialises in the design, manufacture and operation of satellite constellations for the delivery of global services. Skykraft is launching a constellation for space-based Air Traffic Management services in 2023