Skykraft and NiuSky PNG Sign Letter of Intent for Space Enabled VHF and ADS B Services

Skykraft today announced that it has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with NiuSky Pacific Limited (NiuSky PNG) setting out the parties’ shared intent and agreed framework to proceed toward a definitive contract for the deployment of Skykraft’s space‑enabled VHF communications and ADS‑B surveillance services.

The LOI reflects alignment on the technical, operational, and commercial framework for the service and establishes the basis for progressing to a formal contract. Execution of definitive agreements is planned following completion of NiuSky PNG’s Board appointment process, with operational service entry targeted for late 2028, subject to customary regulatory approvals.

Progressing Toward Operational Deployment

Under the LOI, Skykraft and NiuSky PNG will continue detailed collaboration across system definition, and integration planning in preparation for contract finalisation.

The intended deployment would support enhanced communications and surveillance capability across Papua New Guinea’s sovereign airspace, including remote, mountainous, and oceanic regions, and is expected to include:

• Space‑enabled VHF voice communications extending beyond terrestrial line‑of‑sight
• A VHF architecture supporting future datalink and CPDLC capability
• Space‑based ADS‑B surveillance to enhance situational awareness

Strategic Alignment

Speaking at Airspace World 2026, Skykraft CEO Michael Frater said:

“This Letter of Intent reflects strong alignment between Skykraft and NiuSky PNG on the pathway to deploying space‑enabled VHF communications and surveillance. The LOI allows both organisations to continue progressing the programme so that contract execution can occur efficiently once governance arrangements are in place, targeting service entry in 2028.”

Graham Blythe, Managing Director of NiuSky PNG, said:

“Utilizing Skykraft's space-enabled air traffic management services will significantly enhance safety and efficiency throughout Papua New Guinea's airspace. The availability of space-enabled VHF and ADS-B technology ensures real-time, reliable communication and tracking throughout PNG’s challenging environment, ultimately supporting the growth of the aviation sector and enhancing overall air traffic management."

From LOI to Contract

The LOI positions NiuSky PNG as Skykraft’s intended launch ANSP customer for space‑enabled VHF communications and ADS‑B surveillance services.

Papua New Guinea manages one of the most geographically challenging airspace environments in the Asia-Pacific region. Mountainous terrain, dispersed communities, heavy tropical weather systems, and limited access to remote infrastructure sites increase both operational complexity and maintenance burden.

During this phase, the parties will:

• Finalise operational and service requirements
• Progress system integration and safety assurance planning
• Continue regulatory and stakeholder engagement
• Prepare definitive commercial agreements for Board consideration

Contract execution and service commencement will follow completion of governance processes and satisfaction of regulatory requirements.