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It has the same cost as ice-trucking in the arctic without the risks.

Edit: Okay, Transport is the purpose of the Lockheed craft. This craft, however, eludes me... they're pitching it for sensing/telecommunications purposes.

> It should work, but what is it for? For "surveillance", a small drone is far more cost effective.

The article mentions that this aircraft is able to "stay aloft for 5 days". I'm sure no drone has similar loiter capabilities like this craft, not to mention a far higher payload.

Furthermore, I suppose it would be far easier (if not trivial) to turn this vehicle into a drone than an airplane.

Don't overlook the cruise market. People pay a lot of money to travel on slow cruise ships -- in fact, leisurely travel is part of the appeal. The problem with current cruise ships is that they can only travel over water. There is no such limitation with an airship.

The cost per ton of payload is hoped to be significantly cheaper than traditional aircraft. Also, it can land anywhere, so no need for a for a runway.