Electronic Warfare - Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman Demonstrates Next Generation Electronic Warfare and Radar Interoperability at Northern Lightning

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 16:55:00 GMT

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – Sept. 9, 2021 – Making its first test flight, the Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) Next Generation Electronic Warfare (NGEW) system joined the AN/APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR) at Exercise Northern Lightning. NGEW and SABR demonstrated full interoperability in a realistic and contested electromagnetic spectrum environment.

In August, a Northrop Grumman test bed aircraft (pictured) flew with the company’s F-16 Next Generation Electronic Warfare and AN/APG-83 SABR systems in a dense electromagnetic spectrum environment at the Northern Lightning joint training exercise. (Northrop Grumman photo)

“When an EW system and a radar are able to work together fully, as demonstrated with NGEW and SABR, pilots can take advantage of capability without compromise,” said James Conroy, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman. “With the radio frequency (RF) spectrum becoming increasingly contested, this critical set of capabilities will support the F-16 for many years to come.”

Flying on the company’s test bed aircraft, NGEW and SABR demonstrated full pulse-to-pulse, multi-function interoperability in a contested operational environment. With SABR successfully engaging multiple air and ground targets, NGEW detected and identified a range of advanced threats, employing advanced jamming techniques capable of defeating those threats when required.

At the exercise, the two systems faced a high-density radio frequency environment generated by the Volk Field Combat Readiness Training Center, Joint Threat Emitters. These threat emitters allowed Northern Lightning participants to fly missions under conditions representative of near-peer electromagnetic spectrum environments.

NGEW leverages an open-systems, ultra-wideband architecture, providing the instantaneous bandwidth needed to defeat modern threats. This F-16 system is part of a mature product line of electronic warfare capabilities that can be adapted to virtually any platform. An F-16 will fly with the safety of flight-certified NGEW system in the summer of 2022.

Building on a 40-year legacy of producing radars for the F-16, Northrop Grumman provides the SABR APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) fire control radar for the F-16 with advanced capabilities derived from Northrop Grumman’s family of highly successful 5th generation fighter AESA radars. The greater bandwidth, speed and agility of the APG-83 enables the F-16 to detect, track and identify a greater number of targets faster and at longer ranges. In addition, it features all-weather, high-resolution synthetic aperture radar mapping to present the pilot with a large surface image for more precise target identification and strike compared to legacy systems.

The agreement was issued under SOSSEC Consortium’s Air Force Open System Acquisition Initiative (OSAI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) for prototyping. Northrop Grumman will continue to team with non-traditional defense contractors for the execution of this OTA project.

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defense and cyberspace to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.

Approved for Public Release; Distribution Unlimited:

AFRL-2021-3032 dated 08 Sep 2021

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Modernized Electronic Warfare for the Global F-16 Fleet

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 13:00:00 GMT

As the electromagnetic spectrum becomes more contested and congested worldwide, modern electronic warfare systems are essential equipment for tactical aircraft. Northrop Grumman’s F-16 electronic warfare suite for international operators draws upon the technologies developed for the United States F-16 fleet. Known as the ALQ-131C, this fully modernized, digital system is ready to defend against current and future threats.

Fifth generation EW capabilities for the fourth generation

The reliable, sustainable and affordable pod is designed to give the fourth generation fleet the EW capabilities and performance of fifth generation aircraft. This important capability can play an important role in keeping the F-16 relevant for the duration of the platform’s lifespan.

Northrop Grumman’s ALQ-131C electronic warfare system uses an ultra wideband architecture designed to counter current and emerging threats.

With the integration of the APG-83 AESA radar, the F-16 gains new radio frequency sensing and targeting capabilities. Ensuring that the electronic warfare system would work effectively with the radar was a top design goal of the engineering team.

“The F-16 EW Suite has proven pulse-to-pulse interoperability with the APG-83 AESA radar. Our goal was to maximize the performance of both of these critical radio frequency systems to provide enhanced survivability and lethality to the platform. Our extensive testing confirms the success of this approach,” said Jim Jensen, Technical Fellow at Northrop Grumman.

Commonality with the U.S. F-16 program of record provides a path to long-term access to upgrades and affordable sustainment, so operators can always keep up with the state of the art.

Leading technology that counters the threat

“Our customers are facing a greater radio frequency threat to their tactical aircraft than ever before. Our ALQ-131C, and the U.S. F-16 electronic warfare suite, are bringing the latest digital RF survivability technologies to overcome this challenge,” said James Conroy, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman.

Electronic countermeasures protect warfighters from threats by detecting and applying jamming techniques to them.

The ALQ-131C is designed to detect and identify known, emerging and envisioned future threats in even dense, complex threat environments. The ALQ-131C’s high sensitivity digital receiver, high speed processors and Digital Radio Frequency Memory enable high fidelity digital signal generation. It is designed to defeat threat systems by applying the optimal coherent and/or non-coherent jamming technique. This level of protection enables the freedom of maneuver necessary to carry out the many missions of international operators.

Northrop Grumman’s open systems EW architecture offers the bandwidth needed to detect and defeat the most sophisticated RF threats, including agile air defense systems. Shared across the company’s family of EW systems, which includes capabilities for fighters, airlifters and rotary wing aircraft, this pioneering technology can protect virtually any platform or mission.

As RF threats continue to proliferate, effective electronic warfare systems are urgently needed to keep pilots safe and ensure mission success. Interoperable, affordable and sustainable, Northrop Grumman’s ALQ-131C offers advanced EW capabilities for the global F-16 fleet today.

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Northrop Grumman Downselected as Sole Contractor for US Air Force F-16 Electronic Warfare Suite

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 16:00:00 GMT

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – Jan. 11, 2021 – The U.S. Air Force has downselected Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) to complete the final project efforts to provide the electronic warfare suite for its F-16 fighter aircraft fleet. This critical capability will protect pilots from the growing danger of radio frequency-guided weapons by detecting, identifying and defeating advanced threat systems. The agreement was issued under SOSSEC Consortium’s Air Force Open System Acquisition Initiative (OSAI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) for prototyping. Northrop Grumman will continue to team with non-traditional defense contractors for the execution of this OTA project.

Our F-16 electronic warfare suite is designed to allow the Viper to operate anywhere, anytime. (Northrop Grumman photo)

“The electronic warfare suite will significantly increase protection to F-16 operators as they execute their missions in increasingly contested environments,” said Ryan Tintner, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman. “This system draws on the best of our experience from multiple programs to create an effective and affordable solution to keep the Viper relevant throughout its service life.”

The system provides full-spectrum radar warning, threat identification and advanced countermeasure capabilities. It also has proven pulse-to-pulse operability with the F-16’s newly acquired AN/APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR), also built by Northrop Grumman.

The electronic warfare suite leverages an open systems, ultra wideband architecture providing greater instantaneous bandwidth needed to defeat modern threats. This F-16 system is part of a mature product line of electronic warfare capabilities that can be adapted to protect virtually any platform or mission requirement. It shares a common technology baseline with the AC/MC-130J Radio Frequency Countermeasures Program and AN/APR-39 radar warning receivers.

The electronic warfare suite configuration is scalable to meet both U.S. and international partners’ operational needs in either an internal or podded configuration.

Approved for Public Release; Distribution Unlimited: AFRL-2021-0017 dated 7 Jan 2021

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Northrop Grumman Joint Threat Emitter Deployed in Support of UK-Led Joint Warrior Exercise

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 14:00:00 GMT

LONDON – Dec. 1, 2020 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) Joint Threat Emitter (JTE) was recently deployed to assist Royal Air Force (RAF), Royal Navy (RN) and U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) F-35B aircrew training as a component of Exercise Joint Warrior, the largest military exercise in Europe.

The Northrop Grumman Joint Threat Emitter (JTE) system simulated multiple threats as part of a training exercise during Exercise Joint Warrior, a military exercise hosted in the United Kingdom.

JTE is a mobile air defence electronic warfare threat simulator that provides a battlespace environment, designed to help train military personnel to identify enemy missile or artillery threats. During the exercise, JTE provided electronic range simulation training capabilities and played a key role in the training of F-35B pilots from the RAF, RN and USMC.

“Warfighters need realistic training and it’s particularly important to the UK, and its allies, as they bring the F-35 Lightning II into service,” said Andy Horler, director, business development, Northrop Grumman. “Our Joint Threat Emitter offers a high level of preparation for aircrews as they train to combat various threats.”

Exercise Joint Warrior brings together all branches of the UK’s armed forces combining with NATO and other allied forces, incorporating 58 aircraft and 16 warships from 14 allied nations. Going head to head against the JTE simulation is a key component of the F-35B aircrews’ training ahead of their deployment as part of the UK Carrier Strike Group in 2021.

For more information on JTE, please visit: https://www.northropgrumman.com/joint-threat-emitter-jte/

Northrop Grumman solves the toughest problems in space, aeronautics, defence and cyberspace to meet the ever evolving needs of our customers worldwide. Our 90,000 employees define possible every day using science, technology and engineering to create and deliver advanced systems, products and services.

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Northrop Grumman to Upgrade US Army, Navy Radar Warning Receiver Capability to Digital Standard

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 13:00:00 GMT

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – Oct. 29, 2020 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has received a $91 million contract for the additional production of AN/APR-39D(V)2 digital radar warning receivers (RWR). Small and lightweight, the system protects rotary and fixed wing aircraft from modern radio frequency (RF) threats such as radar-guided missiles and anti-aircraft artillery.

The all-digital, multichannel APR-39D(V)2 RWR monitors a 360° spherical coverage area to detect threats and determine their identity, bearing and lethality. The system can automatically initiate optimal defensive measures and has an immediate growth capability for RF countermeasures.

“As the radio frequency threat grows worldwide, the protection the AN/APR-39D(V)2 provides has become essential for our warfighters and international partners,” said Ryan Tintner, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman.

Underlying the system’s advanced capabilities is Northrop Grumman’s next generation electronic warfare architecture. Shared across proven electronic warfare systems in production now, it provides exceptional value and agility. Northrop Grumman electronic warfare and radar warning receiver systems are currently protecting thousands of aircraft worldwide. The AN/APR-39D(V)2 is planned for integration on the AH-1Z, AH-64E, ARL-E, MV-22, UH-1Y and CH-53E/K.

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How Northrop Grumman Is Giving Aircrews an Edge in Electronic Warfare

Steve Lamb — Mon, 19 Oct 2020 13:00:00 GMT

Over the past decade, aircrews have relied on infrared countermeasure and electronic warfare systems, such as Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures and the AN/APR-39 Radar Warning Receiver, to keep them safe during combat operations. These systems have been highly effective against current anti-aircraft weapons. Now, a more lethal generation of threats is beginning to appear on the horizon.

A digital battle for the electronic warfare domain is underway, with adversaries seeking to control the spectrum and deny access to airspace. Sophisticated and agile multi-spectral air defense weapons and airborne electronic warfare systems are coming online in conflict zones throughout the world, creating dense, highly contested environments.

Staying ahead in this era calls for thinking beyond legacy technologies. Northrop Grumman and its customers have responded by investing in an advanced adaptive electronic warfare architecture.

Bringing electronic warfare into the digital era

Fully digital and founded on secure, modular, open systems design principles, Northrop Grumman’s ultra-wideband digital receiver/exciter at its core provides significant advantages over heritage systems. This technology allows for extended frequency coverage, full spatial coverage and more rapid responses. Featuring highly efficient broadband power amplifiers and adaptive countermeasure modulations, it is designed to detect, identify, locate and defeat next generation sensors and weapons.

Doug Goldberg, an engineer at Northrop Grumman, was involved in the design of the architecture and the new systems that would ultimately take advantage of it.

“Analog systems, including the legendary ALQ-135, served the warfighter well for decades, but there are limits to what we can accomplish with those technologies. Our digital, adaptive, open systems architecture provides a generational leap in capability,” said Goldberg. “We cannot afford to chase the threat. We must stay ahead of it.”

Designing future-friendly systems

Sustainment costs for legacy, single-function systems can strain budgets. Obsolescence is an inevitable and sometimes costly concern.

Digital architecture has changed the equation. Electronic warfare suites can now perform multiple functions and support diverse mission sets, and components and software can be shared among a family of systems. Under this building block approach, in use now at Northrop Grumman, development costs and timelines decrease, upgrade cycles are faster and economies of scale kick in during production.

As new threats are identified, enhancements can be shared quickly throughout the product line. Often, only a software change is required to add new capabilities, minimizing the obsolescence risk and decreasing the time to field

Another benefit: Continued relevance for the fourth generation fleet.

“For the foreseeable future, we are going to have fourth and fifth generation fighters flying together,” said Ryan Tintner, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman. “To help our customers make the most of this mixed fleet, we are upgrading the electronic warfare suites of fourth generation aircraft to give them capabilities that rival or exceed newer aircraft systems. Interoperability is key, and this mix of aircraft is already resulting in new concepts of operations.”

Large or small, protection for all

MC-130J aircraft in flight. Northrop Grumman has been selected to provide the radio frequency countermeasures suite technology for the AC-130J and MC-130J aircraft. U.S. Air Force photo.

From massive airlifters down to unmanned aircraft systems, the air operations picture has never before included such a diverse range of platforms. Large or small, they all need protection from radio frequency threats. The adaptive digital EW architecture makes it possible.

Northrop Grumman has been selected to provide its latest internal radio frequency countermeasure capabilities for the AC-130J and MC-130J Radio Frequency Countermeasures program. This system is critical to keeping special operators safe in the face of sophisticated, next-generation RF threats. Protecting large platforms is no small feat, and with a wingspan of more than 100 feet, these are some of the largest military aircraft flying today. The key to making it work is the common building block architecture.

The system is also applicable to other large aircraft in service around the world.

"The scalable nature of our architecture allows us to configure it for aircraft of nearly any size or mission," said Tintner. "We can optimize it for anything from an airlifter down to a small helicopter or unmanned platform, podded or internal."

Another platform taking advantage of the common EW building block design is the F-16 fighter. Northrop Grumman is currently demonstrating an electronic warfare suite for this widely fielded aircraft. This internal, digital radar warning receiver and countermeasure system uses an innovative ultra-wideband architecture to help keep the venerable F-16 effective for decades to come.

For aircraft where an internal system is not the preferred solution, Northrop Grumman's newly exportable ALQ-131C offers this protection in a pod. The original ALQ-131 remains one of the most-installed electronic countermeasure systems ever, with decades of proven operation to its credit. With the digital EW architecture as its foundation, this upgrade provides the power to operate in highly complex and contested electromagnetic spectrum environments.

On rotary wing aircraft, the AN/APR-39D(V)2 radar warning receiver and electronic warfare suite controller provides spherical protection and the ability to detect a greater range of modern threats than previous systems. The AN/APR-39E(V)2, the next generation currently in development, builds on these capabilities to detect modern, agile threats across a broader and wider spectral range. Both were built with a pathway to additional functionality and an ability to install on aircraft with less available space, weight, and power. Planned integrations will impact thousands of aircraft worldwide.

Northrop Grumman is providing a generational leap in capability to keep warfighters safe as radio frequency threats become more lethal and widely proliferated. The need to maintain spectrum control and access to airspace is critical, and the company’s advanced, digital electronic warfare architecture is ready to meet the challenges ahead.

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Northrop Grumman to Provide Key Electronic Warfare Capabilities for AC/MC-130J Aircraft

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 13:00:00 GMT

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – July 29, 2020 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has been selected to provide the prime mission equipment for the Sierra Nevada Corporation-led AC/MC-130J Radio Frequency Countermeasure (RFCM) program. Northrop Grumman’s RFCM system utilizes the latest in antenna, amplifier and electronics technology. This technology provides superior situational awareness and better enables aircraft survivability in operationally relevant environments.

Northrop Grumman has been selected by Sierra Nevada Corp. to provide the radio frequency countermeasures suite that will protect AC-130J and MC-130J aircraft. U.S. Air Force photo.

“With the radio frequency threat growing, modern electromagnetic spectrum protection for AC/MC-130J operators worldwide is essential,” said Jim Conroy, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman. “Our product line approach to the RFCM program is mature and in use throughout our electronic warfare systems.”

The modular, open systems approach to the suite is designed to provide radar warning, threat identification and countermeasure capabilities today, while allowing for the flexibility to adapt to future threats. The system is applicable to both U.S. and international customers and represents the latest upgrade to Northrop Grumman’s RFCM product line.

Northrop Grumman has deep expertise in electronic warfare systems for land, sea and air. Covering the full spectrum of operations from self-protection to electronic attack, the company’s systems are preparing warfighters for multi-domain operations. Among these systems are the F-16 electronic warfare suite, AN/APR-39 family of radar warning receivers and pod-based self-protection.

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Northrop Grumman Expands Next Generation Jammer Low Band Team

Tue, 12 May 2020 13:00:00 GMT

BETHPAGE, N.Y. and BALTIMORE – May 12, 2020 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has expanded its Next Generation Jammer Low Band (NGJ-LB) Capability Block 1 (CB-1) solution team with the addition of proven structure supplier CPI Aero, Inc. based in Edgewood, New York.

The NGJ-LB will fly on the EA-18G Growler, providing advanced airborne electronic attack capabilities. Northrop Grumman artist rendering.

Following the proposal submittal for NGJ-LB in January, Northrop Grumman is moving forward with CB-1 execution by selecting CPI Aero, Inc. to provide the NGJ-LB pod structure and assembly, advancing on the U.S. Navy’s speed to fleet path.

“The addition of CPI Aero to our NGJ-LB team will help provide rapid fleet capability to the Navy,” said Paul Kalafos, vice president, surveillance and electromagnetic maneuver warfare, Northrop Grumman. “They have extensive experience in providing aircraft and pod structural components for several Department of Defense customers and we are proud to have them on our team of EW engineering and mission experts, helping the Navy maintain its warfighting edge through advanced airborne electronic attack (AEA) capabilities.”

“Our leading structures and assembly experience is used by the Navy’s EA-18G, E-2D, MH-60S and CH-53K systems, and we have a well-established record providing these components on-time, efficiently and with consistent high quality,” said Doug McCrosson, president and CEO, CPI Aero, Inc.

CPI Aero, Inc. is also the current supplier of record for pod structure and assembly for the Navy’s ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer Mid-Band program.

Northrop Grumman is the AEA integrator for the Navy’s current EA-18G Growler electronic warfare system. The NGJ-LB will fly on the EA-18G Growler, providing advanced AEA capabilities. Northrop Grumman has been working closely with the Navy to build and demonstrate survivable and capable carrier-based solutions for over 50 years. Starting with the AN/ALQ-86, to the current AN/ALQ-99, AN/ALQ-218 and AN/ALQ-240 for EA-18G and P-8, Northrop Grumman is helping define the future of naval electronic warfare through artificial intelligence, cognitive solutions, software defined and hardware enabled multi-function technologies and open architecture systems.

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Northrop Grumman to Demonstrate Electronic Warfare Suite Prototype for US Air Force F-16 Fighter

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 17:00:00 GMT

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – Nov. 14, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has been selected by the U.S. Air Force for a prototype project to demonstrate an internally mounted electronic warfare suite and digital radar warning receiver for the F-16 fighter aircraft. The agreement was issued under SOSSEC Consortium’s Air Force Open System Acquisition Initiative (OSAI) Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) for prototyping.

Northrop Grumman will demonstrate an advanced electronic warfare suite and digital radar warning receiver prototypes for the U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter. U.S. Air Force photo.

“Providing advanced electronic warfare capabilities to the F-16 community is critically important to the future survivability of the platform, especially as the electromagnetic spectrum becomes increasingly contested,” said Brent Toland, vice president, land and avionics C4ISR, Northrop Grumman. “Our system builds on our long experience with the F-16 and other military aircraft to provide the warfighter with the ability to operate seamlessly against the threats that are continuing to grow in sophistication.”

The goal of the prototype project is to provide spherical radar warning, threat identification and countermeasure capabilities to protect aircrews from modern electromagnetic spectrum threats. Northrop Grumman’s prototype solution builds upon the company’s advanced electronic warfare system architecture that is in production for multiple programs, offering protection from current and emerging threats and a growth path to even greater self-protection capabilities.

Northrop Grumman has teamed with non-traditional defense contractors for the execution of this OTA prototype project.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, space, strike, and logistics and modernization to customers worldwide. Please visit news.northropgrumman.com and follow us on Twitter, @NGCNews, for more information.

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Capability, Maturity, Flexibility – SEWIP Block 3 on Track to Deliver Critical Electronic Warfare Improvement to the Fleet

Chad Tragakis — Wed, 30 Oct 2019 13:00:00 GMT

As Electronic Warfare (EW) continues to shape the future battlespace, Northrop Grumman is advancing a critical capability for the U.S. Navy. The Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) protects surface ships from anti-ship missiles, providing early detection, signal analysis and threat warning. Three SEWIP block upgrades have been established and a fourth is planned. SEWIP Block 3, being developed by Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Navy Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS), adds electronic attack to the SLQ-32(V) EW system, and is a cornerstone capability that will meet the urgent operational needs of the Fleet. The timing couldn’t be more important, as the pace and complexity of emerging threats continues to escalate.

Artist’s rendering of the SEWIP Block 3 System neutralizing a threat.

In January this year, Northrop Grumman announced it had successfully reached a Milestone C decision from the U.S. Navy, reflecting the government-led review of the technology’s performance and readiness. The company’s navigation and maritime systems division soon launched low-rate initial production (LRIP) of the SEWIP Block 3 AN/SLQ-32(V)7 system. That same month, Northrop Grumman opened a multi-million dollar, state-of-the-art high-bay facility, specifically designed for integration and testing of the system’s hardware and software.

Low-Rate Initial Production and Testing Progressing Well

Northrop Grumman’s manufacturing team has successfully built the SEWIP Block 3 engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) hardware and is currently conducting system integration and test. Testing in the high-bay facility’s anechoic chamber has been proceeding well.

After successfully completing the manufacturing readiness assessment, demonstrating proven processes and equipment in place, the team launched material procurement and has started manufacturing the first two LRIP systems. An important milestone was recently reached with the production of the 500th RF module, Transmit and Receive components used in the SEWIP Block 3 system.

As progress continues, Northrop Grumman is on track for targeted installation of the first SEWIP Block 3 system in 2021 on an Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer.

Artist’s rendering of the SEWIP Block 3 System.

Flexibility of the System

With a long legacy of leadership and innovation in electronic warfare, Northrop Grumman has provided expertise to the legacy AN/SLQ-32 EW system for over four decades. Today, with the Navy now recognizing the electromagnetic spectrum as a distinct warfighting domain, Northrop Grumman has continued to invest in advanced capabilities in electromagnetic maneuver warfare (EMW) and has introduced a number of innovative approaches to harness the full potential of the SEWIP system.

SEWIP Block 3 provides game-changing capability for non-kinetic electronic attack options, and the system has the potential to do much more. From advanced communications to multi-role waveforms, the multi-function applications for SEWIP Block 3 will provide enhanced mission capabilities to the Fleet while presenting opportunities for future cost-savings and reduced size, weight and power.

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Northrop Grumman Electronic Attack Pod Upgrade Program to Deliver Fifth Generation Capabilities for Fourth Generation Aircraft

Tue, 30 Jul 2019 13:00:00 GMT

HERNDON, Va. – July 30, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has received a $44 million contract award for the Electronic Attack Pod Upgrade Program (EAPUP) from the U.S. Air Force. Placed under an existing contract, this third production order will significantly increase the number of EAPUP systems for the Air Force.

Northrop Grumman’s Electronic Attack Pod Upgrade Program brings fifth-generation electronic countermeasures to the fourth-generation fleet.

Operating in the modern air warfare environment with advanced, rapidly proliferating electronic warfare systems and radar-guided weapons requires an equally sophisticated level of protection and proven technology. The EAPUP — an upgraded, digital AN/ALQ-131 pod — will replace the Air Force’s current electronic attack pods. The AN/ALQ-131A is currently available to international partners.

“The new technology in EAPUP will protect U.S. Air Force pilots and coalition partner aircraft from modern and future threats,” said Michelle Scarpella, vice president and general manager, global logistics and modernization, Northrop Grumman.

Northrop Grumman received the order following a series of rigorous tests designed to verify the system’s capabilities and readiness for operations. The tests were representative of modern combat scenarios and involved multiple, simultaneous threats. The pod demonstrated the ability to identify, locate and counter sophisticated threats and keep aircrews safe during missions in contested airspace.

“The advanced electronic warfare capability integrated in EAPUP is mature, scalable and in production today. Available globally, it is ready to give aircrews the protection they need in dense electromagnetic spectrum environments,” said Brent Toland, vice president, land and avionics C4ISR, Northrop Grumman.

EAPUP will bring the Air Force’s electronic attack pod inventory into the digital age, delivering fifth-generation capability to fourth-generation aircraft and making it among the most capable electronic warfare pod in the Department of Defense inventory. At the core of EAPUP is Northrop Grumman’s advanced electronic warfare technology, built upon the expertise gained from the company’s broad portfolio of programs for multiple services.

Northrop Grumman has more than 60 years of experience delivering electronic warfare systems for a wide variety of fighter, bomber and transport aircraft.

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Northrop Grumman Demonstrates Advanced Capabilities at Northern Edge 2019

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 13:30:00 GMT

LINTHICUM, Md. – July 10, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), together with military partners at Northern Edge 2019, successfully displayed advanced capabilities in air-to-air, air-to-surface and maritime tactical scenarios that address key warfighting gaps in advanced strike; intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR); and electronic warfare.

Northrop Grumman’s reconfigurable flight test aircraft significantly reduces the technology development process, bringing advanced capabilities to warfighters faster, more affordably and reliably.

“Northrop Grumman is developing agile and affordable technologies that address the advanced strike, ISR and multi-domain command and control needs for our customers,” said Tom Jones, vice president and general manager, airborne C4ISR systems, Northrop Grumman. “Using reconfigurable flight-test aircraft outfitted with advanced sensors and cognitive artificial intelligence capability at events such as Northern Edge speeds up the development process significantly.”

Northern Edge is the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s biennial joint training exercise, held May 13-24 at the Joint Pacific Alaska Range Complex and the Gulf of Alaska. It involves all U.S. military services and agency partners, as well as virtual participants from stateside and overseas bases. The exercise is designed to enhance air warfare and interoperability among the services in a highly contested environment.

Celebrating 10 years of participation at Northern Edge this year, Northrop Grumman has consistently demonstrated leading technology capabilities at the joint military-industry exercise. Innovative solutions tested at earlier Northern Edge exercises include auto target recognition and combat identification; advanced electronic protection and attack; cognitive mission computing; maritime search and track; long-range surface-to-air missile detection; and infrared search and track.

Northrop Grumman also demonstrated Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) gateways and multi-level secure live, virtual and constructive training. Many of these capabilities are now fielded on U.S. platforms, providing a significant warfighting advantage to Air Force, Navy and Marine aircrews.

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Northrop Grumman to Provide Eight Advanced Electronic Warfare Simulation and Training Systems to US Air Force

Tue, 14 May 2019 13:00:00 GMT

BUFFALO, N.Y. – May 14, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has received a $46 million delivery order for eight Joint Threat Emitter (JTE) Units. This award is a part of the indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity JTE Enhanced Delivery Initiative contract awarded by the U.S. Air Force in December 2018.

JTE is a ruggedized system that is easily relocated, reactive to aircrew/aircraft for fast-jet, fixed-wing and rotary-wing defensive measures, and can be rapidly reprogrammed with new threat parameters.

JTE is a mobile air defense electronic warfare threat simulator that provides high-fidelity replication of surface-to-air missiles and anti-aircraft artillery threats for aircrew training.

“JTE is critical to the success of the U.S. military and our international allies,” said James Conroy, vice president, land and avionics C4ISR, Northrop Grumman. “The system ensures aircrews are better equipped to identify and effectively counter the most advanced enemy missile and artillery threats.”

Awarded by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, this award includes the delivery of eight wide-band variants of the threat emitter unit, as well as retrofit kits for some existing systems. Deliveries are slated for U.S. training ranges across the country and to select international locations. This will mark the second set of JTE systems delivered internationally. All work under this contract will be performed in Buffalo.

Northrop Grumman’s JTE is the current U.S. Air Force program of record with 30 systems fielded both domestically and internationally. The JTE provides a modern, reactive battlespace war environment, designed to help train military personnel to identify and effectively counter enemy missile or artillery threats.

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Northrop Grumman Selected by US Army for R4 IDIQ Valued at $982 Million

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 19:00:00 GMT

ANNAPOLIS JUNCTION, Md. – March 20, 2019 – The U.S. Army has selected Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) as one of multiple companies competing for task orders issued under R4, an indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contract with a ceiling of $982 million.

Northrop Grumman will support a full-spectrum of the U.S. Army’s cyber and electronic warfare initiatives through the R4 IDIQ.

The contract will enable the Army to procure an entire range of cyber electromagnetic activities (CEMA) aimed at advancing the force’s lethality in non-kinetic engagements across warfare domains.

“Northrop Grumman is proud to be selected by the U.S. Army to deliver world class cyber and electronic warfare capabilities to the nation’s warfighters,” said Ginger Wierzbanowski, vice president, cyber and intelligence mission solutions, Northrop Grumman Mission Systems. “Our work on R4 will help ensure our Army forces can rapidly identify, develop and leverage the full range of CEMA effects necessary to deter, deny and prevail on the battlefield.”

To expand the Army’s non-kinetic arsenal, the contract will support cyber and electronic warfare research and technology development, studies and analyses, integration support, laboratory demonstrations, integrated systems development, testing, performance verification, fabrication, logistics, technical support services and cyber security.

“The need to improve our warfighters’ ability to compete on an integrated battlefield, especially prior to traditional armed conflict, cannot be overstated,” said Wierzbanowski. “We look forward to collaborating with the Army on this important strategic effort.”

The company will perform work on R4 task orders primarily from its Cincinnati, Ohio location.

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Northrop Grumman Developing the Next Generation of Radar Warning Receivers for the Army

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 14:00:00 GMT

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – March 4, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has received an award from the U.S. Army to develop the AN/APR-39E(V)2, the next generation of radar threat warning sensors.

Sophisticated radio frequency-guided weapons are becoming more widely used throughout the world, posing a new threat to aviators in contested airspace. Protecting aircrews from this new generation of highly mobile anti-aircraft weapons requires the ability to track a broader variety of threats across a wider spectral range.

The AN/APR-39E(V)2, previously known as the Modernized Radar Warning Receiver, will provide a new level of precision in detecting, locating and identifying threats by combining Northrop Grumman’s digital receiver exciter (DRE) architecture with novel digital signal processing algorithms.

The DRE architecture is also employed on the AN/APR-39D(V)2 radar warning receiver and other electronic warfare systems, allowing for more rapid updates to stay ahead of the threat.

“The AN/APR-39E(V)2 will see more threats, including millimeter wave radars, at greater range. That advanced level of protection is critical to our customers’ mission success,” said Brent Toland, vice president, land and avionics C4ISR, Northrop Grumman.

Northrop Grumman electronic warfare systems are currently protecting thousands of aircraft worldwide.

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Northrop Grumman Authorized to Build SEWIP Block 3 Low Rate Initial Production Systems Following Successful Milestone C Decision

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 13:00:00 GMT

BALTIMORE – Jan. 24, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has received authorization to proceed with low rate initial production of Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block 3 systems following a successful Milestone C decision for the SEWIP Block 3 AN/SLQ-32(V)7 program.

Northrop Grumman has continued to invest in advanced capabilities in Electromagnetic Maneuver Warfare (EMW). With the Navy elevating the electromagnetic spectrum as a warfighting domain, SEWIP Block 3 is the cornerstone capability that will meet the urgent operational needs of the Fleet.

Milestone C is a government led review to assess a program’s performance and readiness to enter the production and deployment phase. The successful Milestone C decision for SEWIP Block 3 recognizes the accomplishments of the Northrop Grumman and Navy team in demonstrating the capability of this groundbreaking electronic warfare (EW) capability.

“Milestone C approval and the start of LRIP are significant milestones for the SEWIP Block 3 program,” said Captain Seiko Okano, the Navy’s Major Program Manager of Above Water Sensors. “SEWIP Block 3 is a critical capability that the Fleet needed yesterday to pace the evolving anti-ship cruise missile threat. We must continue to push to deliver this critical electronic warfare improvement to the Fleet on schedule and cost.”

SEWIP Block 3 is the third in a series of block upgrades of the AN/SLQ-32 electronic warfare (EW) system which provides electronic attack (EA) capability improvements required to pace the evolving anti-ship missile threat. Northrop Grumman has provided electronic warfare expertise to the legacy AN/SLQ-32 EW system for over four decades. With the Navy elevating the electromagnetic spectrum as a warfighting domain, SEWIP Block 3 is a cornerstone capability that will meet the urgent operational needs of the Navy in that domain. SEWIP Block 3 provides game changing improved capability for non-kinetic electronic attack options.

“I am very proud of the entire team in achieving this significant engineering milestone despite the complexities of pursuing such a demanding technological goal,” said Ingrid Vaughan, vice president and general manager, navigation & maritime systems division, Northrop Grumman Mission Systems. “The relentless commitment of the U.S. Navy Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) and Northrop Grumman team in developing this revolutionary electronic attack capability will dramatically assist our Fleet in pacing 21st century threats.”

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Northrop Grumman to Provide Advanced Electronic Warfare Simulation and Training Capability to US Air Force

Thu, 20 Dec 2018 14:00:00 GMT

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Dec. 20, 2018 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has received a $450 million, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract award to deliver Joint Threat Emitter (JTE) systems to the United States Air Force. The JTE offers realistic warfighter training and provides a modern, reactive battlespace environment that trains military personnel to identify and counter enemy missile and artillery threats.

The Joint Threat Emitter provides a modern, reactive battlespace war environment, designed to help train military personnel to identify and effectively counter enemy missile or artillery threats.

Awarded by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, the JTE Enhanced Delivery Initiative contract includes threat emitter units, mobile and fixed command and control units as well as spares, support equipment, testing and training.

JTE is a robust and ruggedized system that is easily relocated, reactive to aircrew/aircraft for fast-jet, fixed-wing and rotary-wing defensive measures, and can be rapidly reprogrammed with new threat parameters.

“Our Joint Threat Emitter systems enable aircrews to train in environments that match actual combat situations. These training systems are critical in preparing members of the military to respond to threats,” said Rob Fleming, vice president, land and avionics C4ISR, Northrop Grumman.

The JTE Enhanced Delivery Initiative includes foreign military sales to U.S. partner countries through the U.S. Air Force. All work under this contract will be performed in Buffalo.

Northrop Grumman’s JTE is the current U.S. Air Force program of record with 28 systems so far fielded both domestically and internationally.

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Northrop Grumman Announces Next Generation Jammer-Low Band Team

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 17:30:00 GMT

BALTIMORE – Nov. 28, 2018 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has teamed with Harris Corporation and Comtech PST for the U.S. Navy’s Next Generation Jammer–Low Band (NJG-LB) Demonstration of Existing Technologies (DET).

The U.S. Navy selected Northrop Grumman, teamed with Harris Corporation and Comtech PST, to demonstrate existing technologies for the Next Generation Jammer Low Band, which will fly on the EA-18G Growler to provide advanced airborne electronic attack capabilities. The NGJ system will give Growlers – including this aircraft assigned to the Cougars of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 – the ability to defeat increasingly advanced and capable threats, making the carrier strike group more survivable. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Bill M. Sanders/Released)

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) awarded Northrop Grumman a $35 million, 20-month contract Oct. 25 to demonstrate existing jammer capability for the NJG-LB program. Northrop Grumman is the airborne electronic attack integrator for the Navy’s current EA-18G Growler electronic warfare (EW) system.

Harris Corporation is providing cutting-edge electronic attack equipment developed at its North Amityville, New York, operation to Northrop Grumman for NGJ-LB DET. Comtech PST, a subsidiary of Comtech Telecommunications based in Melville, New York, is providing high-power radio frequency (RF) amplifier systems.

“The Northrop Grumman team brings extensive electronic warfare expertise and a long history of building and deploying systems that support the challenging carrier-based aviation environment. We are proud to be working with Comtech and Harris to help the Navy maintain its warfighting edge,” said Paul Kalafos, vice president, surveillance and electromagnetic maneuver warfare, Northrop Grumman.

Harris’ equipment is integrated within Northrop Grumman’s NGJ-LB pod system to provide a modular, scalable and reconfigurable capability that will allow the Navy to stay current with rapidly evolving threats. Harris draws on its expertise in coherent electronic attack technologies and deployed jamming techniques.

“Harris is a leader in EW solutions worldwide and has extensive experience with the EA-18G Growler. Our significant investments in open architecture systems are ready made for the U.S. Navy NGJ-LB DET,” said Ed Zoiss, president, Harris Electronic Systems. “Our work on NGJ-LB also advances the company’s strategy to extend into new EW markets through pods and unmanned systems.”

“Comtech is very pleased to be part of the Northrop Grumman team. Our long standing relationship and position as a premier provider of high power RF systems positions the team well to support the Next Generation Jammer program for years to come. We look forward to a very successful partnership,” said Michael Hrybenko, president, Comtech PST.

The NGJ system will augment, and ultimately replace the EA-18G Growler aircraft’s legacy ALQ-99 tactical jammer system with advanced airborne electronic attack capabilities for defeating increasingly advanced and capable threats. Developed in three frequency-focused increments – high-, mid- and low-band – NGJ will bring a significant increase in airborne electronic attack capability to counter complex air defense and communications systems.

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US Navy Awards Northrop Grumman $35.1 Million Contract for Next Generation Jammer–Low Band Demonstration of Existing Technologies

Fri, 26 Oct 2018 15:30:00 GMT

BALTIMORE – Oct. 25, 2018 – The U.S. Navy has awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) a $35.1 million, 20-month contract to demonstrate existing technologies for the low-band frequency jammer, the second increment of the Next Generation Jammer (NGJ) program.

The U.S. Navy selected Northrop Grumman to demonstrate existing technologies for the Next Generation Jammer Low Band, which will fly on the EA-18G Growler to provide advanced airborne electronic attack capabilities. The NGJ system will give Growlers – including this aircraft assigned to the Cougars of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 139 – the ability to defeat increasingly advanced and capable threats, making the carrier strike group more survivable. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Bill M. Sanders/Released)

Northrop Grumman has been the Navy’s airborne electronic attack integrator for more than 50 years. In addition to its work on NGJ Low Band (NGJ-LB), the company continues to support the fleet with advanced electronic attack capabilities.

The NGJ system will augment, and ultimately replace the EA-18G Growler aircraft’s aging ALQ-99 tactical jammer with advanced airborne electronic attack capabilities for defeating increasingly advanced and capable threats. Developed in three frequency-focused increments – high-band, mid-band and low-band – NGJ will be capable of jamming multiple radar signals at the same time, including surveillance and air-defense radars.

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) selected Northrop Grumman for the NGJ-LB Demonstration of Existing Technology phase. The contract was awarded Oct. 25.

Northrop Grumman’s offer was selected based on technical merit and potential maturity for accomplishing the low-band mission. The company’s solution also provides rapid operational capability to the fleet.

“Northrop Grumman will deliver a mature, low-risk and exceedingly capable solution for Next Generation Jammer Low Band that outpaces evolving threats and enables the Navy’s speed-to-fleet path,” said Thomas Jones, vice president and general manager, airborne C4ISR systems, Northrop Grumman.

“Our NGJ-LB pod provides multi-mission capability for electromagnetic maneuver warfare. We stand ready to demonstrate advancements in this mission area and deliver ahead of schedule.”

Work primarily will be performed in Linthicum, Maryland, and Bethpage and Amityville, New York.

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Product Deliveries and Success in the Field Boost Northrop Grumman’s JCREW Team

Sharon Ritter — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 18:00:00 GMT

How do you measure the value of a product whose primary goal is prevention?

For the Northrop Grumman team that designs and produces the Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) Electronic Warfare (JCREW) system, that value is measured in the euphoric high-fives of a convoy that returns unharmed from a dangerous mission. It’s measured in the lives of soldiers who will come home and hug their children.

Northrop Grumman’s Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare, or JCREW, system protects warfighters on foot, in vehicles and in permanent structures. The company delivered all the JCREW dismounted systems the U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command procured under its low-rate initial production contract and is preparing for full-rate production. (U.S. Navy photo)

“The spirit of teamwork and sense of mission drive the team,” said Demeron Skouson, low-rate initial production (LRIP) program manager, JCREW, Northrop Grumman. “We’re providing a product that has direct lifesaving capability for our warfighters. We all take great pride in that, and it motivates us during the challenging times.”

JCREW is a software-programmable jammer that provides protection from device-triggered IEDs. The units are available in both a wearable, backpack design and a mounted/fixed-site version to protect warfighters on foot, in vehicles, and in permanent structures. Warfighters know JCREW is working when IEDs don’t.

In early June, Northrop Grumman delivered all contracted JCREW LRIP dismounted systems to the U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). The systems are being used by both U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force personnel, and feedback from the field has been good.

“The product has been performing very well in theater, and the end users are extremely appreciative,” said Darryl Williams, director, JCREW operating unit, Northrop Grumman. “I’m proud of the efforts our team has made in getting this critical technology to the front lines.”

The JCREW team has faced challenges that can arise when a new system is developed and produced from the ground up. However, the team has been buoyed by the feedback from theater, recent deliveries, and successful completion of all qualification testing for both dismounted and mounted systems.

The team has been focused on increasing production while verifying readiness to shift to higher production rates.

In late June, Northrop Grumman was awarded a JCREW full-rate production contract for $96.5 million. Under this contract, the company will deliver additional dismounted systems, mounted systems and spares to NAVSEA. The company also will provide engineering support services such as technical studies, tech refresh and depot repairs.

As the JCREW team focuses on ramping up production while keeping quality a top priority, the future looks bright for a product that is saving lives on the battlefield. The adaptability of the product has allowed for new, innovative uses, including countering unmanned aircraft systems. Several foreign military forces also are interested in purchasing JCREW systems. “We see demand for the product increasing in the future,” Skouson said.

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