For nearly a year, the Republican presidential primary candidate has been promoting the installation of such devices at the U.S. border as a means of stemming illegal immigration, The New York Times reported Friday.

Until last fall, the newspaper said Giuliani and his consulting company were part owners of SkyWatch L.L.C., a start-up company that reports developing a sensor capable of monitoring illegal border crossings. Giuliani Partners ended its financial relationship with SkyWatch in September without receiving any compensation.

Giuliani has never mentioned his involvement with the firm in his ads or campaign appearances.

SkyWatch, in collaboration with military contractor Raytheon, is seeking to market the sensor technology to the federal government.

Industry analysts told the Times the technology has a lucrative future.