Gilmour picks up surveillance satellite deal from Defence
Gilmour Space Technologies has won the right to develop and launch a new sovereign surveillance satellite as part of the Federal Government’s $7 billion investment in new space capabilities.
Adam Gilmour's plans to launch from Bowen in 2024
Defence Minister Peter Dutton announced a $15 million partnership with Gilmour Space Technologies.
He said Defence was engaged with the Australian Space Agency and Australian industry to develop and supply sovereign space surveillance and mission system capabilities.
He said the $15 million investment in new military space capabilities would be to counter threats and assure Australia’s continued access to space-based intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
“Defence is aiming to launch a satellite prototype in conjunction with Gilmour Space by mid-2023,” Dutton said.
Gilmour chief executive Adam Gilmour, said the contract was “a big milestone for an Australian-owned company that’s working hard to develop sovereign space and launch capabilities for our Civil, Commercial and Defence customers.
“Under this deal, Gilmour Space will be developing a G-class satellite for Defence and launching it on our Eris rocket from an Australian launch site,” he said.
“We firmly believe that partnerships like this will help to grow future space and defence primes in Australia and lead to more capability for defence in the years ahead.”
