Sanswire Corp., a UAV developer based in Aventura, Fla., said defense contractor Global Telesat Corp. (GTC) has agreed to purchase a 50 percent interest in one of its SkySat UAVs for $250,000, with an option to purchase the remaining 50% for an additional $750,000.
The SkySat is mid-altitude UAV platform initially designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions performed at altitudes up to 45,000 feet. Sanswire and Global Telesat intend to upgrade the UAV to improve its viability for multipurpose defense and communications operations. More specifically, the two companies said they plan to develop a flexible platform allowing the SkySat to accommodate a range of customer requirements.
"We are keenly focused on leveraging our existing airships and technologies to generate near-term revenue. We also are expanding our product portfolio of integrated, near-space UAV designs. Our goal is to offer a broad range of low-cost, long-duration surveillance solutions for our customers that can be delivered in a timely and cost-efficient manner," said Sanswire’s Chairman Wayne P. Jackson.