Skykraft has appointed Michael Frater as the company’s 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 the firm’s 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 five satellites by June 20, 2022, with a further 14 satellites produced before 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 300 kg. 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 the company’s manufacturing facility.
