F-35 - Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman to Enable New F-35 Warfighting Capability

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 14:00:00 GMT

BALTIMORE – Jan. 12, 2020 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has received a contract award from Lockheed Martin Corporation to enable new functionality to protect the 5th Generation F-35 Lightning II multi-role fighter. As part of a collaborative arrangement between Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin, the three companies will integrate Northrop Grumman’s AN/ASQ-242 Integrated Communications, Navigation and Identification (ICNI) and BAE Systems’ AN/ASQ-239 Electronic Warfare/Countermeasures (EW/CM) system for optimal operational utility.

Northrop Grumman, in close collaboration with BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin, will enable new functionality to protect the F-35 Lightning II aircraft. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Alexander Cook/Released)

“This arrangement allows us to collectively provide enhanced capabilities without compromising the size, weight or power of the aircraft,” said Howard Lurie, vice president, F-35 programs, Northrop Grumman. “We are proud to be a primary partner of the F-35 team, providing our U.S. and allied warfighters superior combat effectiveness.”

Northrop Grumman's ICNI system provides F-35 pilots with more than 27 fully-integrated operational functions. Using its industry-leading software-defined radio technology, Northrop Grumman's design allows the simultaneous operation of multiple critical functions while greatly reducing size, weight and power demands on the advanced F-35 fighter. These functions include Identification Friend or Foe (IFF), automatic acquisition of fly-to points, and various voice and data communications such as the Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL).

The BAE Systems' AN/ASQ-239 system is an advanced, proven electronic warfare suite that provides fully integrated radar warning, targeting support, and self-protection to detect and defeat threats and enable the F-35 to reach well-defended targets.

“As Lockheed Martin’s electronic warfare integrator for all F-35 aircraft, we’re committed to equipping our customers with advanced capabilities that help them conduct their missions,” said Deborah Norton, vice president of F-35 Solutions at BAE Systems. “Under this collaborative agreement, we will work closely with Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman to enhance the capability of our fully integrated EW system – heightening pilots’ situational awareness and helping them evade, engage and defeat modern threats.”

As the provider for F-35’s ICNI continuously since low rate initial production (LRIP) Lot 1, Northrop Grumman has delivered more than 750 shipsets to date. Components of the new functionality are planned to begin incorporation starting in 2025 (Lot 17) and will include upgraded electronics and software.

Northrop Grumman plays a key role in the development, modernization, sustainment and production of the F-35. The company manufactures the center fuselage and wing skins for the aircraft, produces and maintains several sensors, avionics and mission systems as well as mission-planning software, pilot and maintainer training courseware, electronic warfare simulation testing and low-observable technologies.

To learn more about Northrop Grumman’s role on the F-35, visit the company’s website.

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.

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Aviation Week Honors Northrop Grumman with the Laureate Award in Defense Manufacturing

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 14:00:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif. – Nov. 23, 2020 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is being recognized for revolutionizing the production of military aircraft through human ingenuity and advanced digital tooling technology within its F-35 Integrated Assembly Line (IAL).

Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Assembly Line (IAL) features a variety of digital tools such as the automated drilling system (ADS) that drills and countersinks more than 5,000 precision holes on each F-35 center fuselage. In addition, ADS features its own self-inspection probe powered by data analytics and sensors to measure for precision.

Aviation Week honored Northrop Grumman with their 63rd Annual Laureate Award in Defense Manufacturing for increasing its center fuselage production from six to 15 deliveries per month. The center fuselage is the core structure of the F-35 Lightning II, which forms a significant portion of the aircraft internal weapons bay and internal fuel capacity.

“Our integrated assembly line is designed and built to manufacture at a very rapid pace,” said Glenn Masukawa, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman. “When a facility brings together talent, technology, and a sense of mission – it’s a winning formula for our people, our customers and ultimately, the warfighter. The IAL team continues to push boundaries and set the pace of military aircraft production through our integrated digital capabilities.”

Northrop Grumman’s IAL plays a significant role in the company’s approach to producing military aircraft, while addressing the customer’s vision for progress and innovation to build the next generation aircraft. The company recently delivered its 700^th center fuselage in August 2020.

The advanced manufacturing capabilities of the IAL use digital tools to produce high-quality center fuselages on time. In June 2019, the IAL began completing a center fuselage every 30 hours.

Lockheed Martin is the industry lead for the F-35 program, and Northrop Grumman plays a key role in the development, modernization, sustainment and production of the F-35. In addition to producing the center fuselage and wing skins for the aircraft, the company develops, produces and maintains several sensor systems, avionics, mission systems and mission-planning software, pilot and maintainer training systems courseware, electronic warfare simulation test capability, and low-observable technologies. Click here to learn more about Northrop Grumman’s role on the F-35 Lightning II.

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Northrop Grumman Simultaneously Intercepts Multiple Threats During Flight Test

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 18:10:00 GMT

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Dec. 12, 2019 – The U.S. Army and Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully conducted simultaneous engagement of two incoming target cruise missiles during a flight test using the Army’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) Battle Command System (IBCS). Including Sentinel, Patriot and Marine TPS-59 radars and Patriot Advanced Capability-2 (PAC-2) Guidance Enhanced Missile-TBM (GEM-T) interceptors, the test demonstrated successful interoperability and the end-to-end performance of the IBCS system to detect, track and simultaneously engage multiple threats.

Soldiers from the 30th Brigade 3rd Battalion 6th Air Defense Artillery Regiment prepare for flight test in IBCS Engagement Operation Center [Source U.S. Army]

“Building on the success of the most recent flight test this past August, today’s test demonstrates that IBCS is achieving unprecedented performance in defeating multiple missile threats,” said Dan Verwiel, vice president and general manager, missile defense and protective systems, Northrop Grumman. “Taking advantage of all available resources in the battlefield, IBCS enhances battlefield survivability by enabling 360 degree sensor coverage, and enables highest probability of defeat by ensuring the most effective weapon is used to intercept each threat.”

The test was conducted at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico by a test detachment of soldiers from the 30th Brigade 3rd Battalion 6th Air Defense Artillery Regiment who manned the workstations and executed the engagement plan presented by IBCS. The friendly forces defense laydown consisted of a battalion, two battery IBCS engagement operations centers, a Patriot radar, two Sentinel radars and two PAC-2 launchers. Also contributing to the test were a U.S. Marine Corps AN/TPS-59 joint radar connected to an external Link 16 network and F-35 fighter aircraft with sensors adapted to IBCS. All these systems were connected to the IBCS Integrated Fire Control Network (IFCN).

Designed to emulate potential real-world events, the flight test began when two cruise missile surrogate threats were launched. The cruise missiles flew in a maneuvering formation until they neared their targets, and then split off to attack two separate defended assets. IBCS fused data from the various participating sensors and external networks into accurate composite tracks of both threats. Then it developed the engagement plan employed by the soldiers to successfully launch two PAC-2 missiles and intercept both cruise missile targets.

“Today's successful flight test further demonstrates the maturity of the Integrated Battle Command System and its capabilities in support of Multi-Domain Operations,” said Maj. Gen. Rob Rasch, Army Program Executive Officer, Missiles and Space. “The inclusion of Marine Corps and Air Force sensor systems in the test architecture validate the system's open architecture and the potential for IBCS to operate seamlessly with joint services, as well as foreign partners in the future, to extend battlespace and defeat complex threats."

“IBCS is the Army's #1 Air and Missile Defense priority and will fundamentally change our air and missile defense force and capability, maximizing the combination of sensors and shooters in a completely different way than ever before,” said Brig. Gen. Brian Gibson, Army Futures Command and director of the Air and Missile Defense Cross Functional Team. “Successful execution of this mission-critical test validates that IBCS is well prepared for the upcoming Limited User Test in second quarter 2020.”

IBCS is the cornerstone of the Army’s IAMD modernization program. Designed to connect the force for unified action against evolving threats, IBCS is a net-centric command and control system for the air and missile defense mission. IBCS enhances battlefield survivability by creating a resilient self-healing network of all available sensors that can reduce and eliminate vectors of attack while providing operators with a single integrated air picture of unprecedented accuracy and expanded area of protection.

IBCS is managed by the U.S. Army Program Executive Office for Missiles and Space, Redstone Arsenal, Alabama.

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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Northrop Grumman Delivers 500th AN/APG-81 AESA Radar for the F-35 Lightning II

Thu, 07 Nov 2019 14:00:00 GMT

BALTIMORE – Nov. 7, 2019 –Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has delivered its 500th AN/APG-81 fire control radar for the F-35 Lightning II. The Northrop Grumman AN/APG-81 active electronically scanned array is the cornerstone of the F-35’s advanced sensor suite, providing unparalleled battlespace situational awareness that translates into platform lethality, effectiveness and survivability.

Northrop Grumman delivered its 500th AN/APG-81 radar for the F-35 Lightning II. Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman Corporation

“As a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team, our continued investment in facilities and equipment, production enhancements in process and design, and expanded supply chain capability through second sourcing helped reach this milestone,” said Chris Fitzpatrick, director, F-35 programs, Northrop Grumman. “The 500th delivery of this top-of-the-line fighter radar was made possible by our continuous focus on quality and excellence across our company.”

The AN/APG-81 radar has long-range active and passive air-to-air and air-to-ground modes that support a wide range of demanding missions. These modes are complemented by an array of stealth features as well as electronic warfare and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance functions.

Northrop Grumman plays a key role in the development, modernization, sustainment and production of the F-35. In addition to producing the AN/APG-81 radar, the company manufactures the center fuselage and wing skins for the aircraft, produces and maintains several sensor systems, avionics, mission systems and mission-planning software, pilot and maintainer training systems courseware, electronic warfare simulation test capability, and low-observable technologies.

To learn more about Northrop Grumman’s role on the F-35 Lightning II, visit this website.

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Northrop Grumman Delivers 500th Center Fuselage for the F-35 Lightning II

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:00:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif. – Feb. 25, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has completed the 500th center fuselage for the F-35 Lightning II – ahead of schedule.

An F-35 technician performs a skin assembly process with work instructions projected on the structure as one of the innovative solutions for high rate military aircraft production. A core structure of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft, the center fuselage is produced on Northrop Grumman's integrated assembly line at its Palmdale Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence.

“We deliver an F-35 center fuselage every 36 hours and I am very proud to say we have made all our deliveries since the inception of the program,” said Frank Carus, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman. “Our dedicated team works closely with the customer and suppliers to improve quality and affordability in support of the warfighter.”

Designated AU-18, the 500th F-35 center fuselage is for a conventional takeoff and landing variant for the Royal Australian Air Force. Northrop Grumman began production on the AU-18 center fuselage in June 2018 and completed work on Feb. 21. Northrop Grumman has been producing center fuselages for all three F-35 variants since May 2004.

“We have set the standard for the production of military aircraft,” said Kevin Mickey, sector vice president and general manager, military aircraft systems, Northrop Grumman. “Our teams and suppliers are constantly finding better, more affordable ways to deliver a superior product on-time, at-cost and, as with this center fuselage, ahead of schedule. When you couple this level of commitment with advanced manufacturing technologies, it’s just a win-win situation for us, our customer and the warfighter.”

A core structure of the F-35 aircraft, the center fuselage is designed and produced on Northrop Grumman's integrated assembly line, a state-of-the-art facility supported by technologies exclusive to or pioneered by Northrop Grumman bringing together robotics, autonomous systems, virtual 3D and predictive automation to the forefront of center fuselage production.

Lockheed Martin is the industry lead for the F-35 program and Northrop Grumman plays a key role in the development, modernization, sustainment and production of the F-35. In addition to producing the center fuselage and wing skins for the aircraft, the company develops, produces and maintains several sensor systems, avionics, mission systems and mission-planning software, pilot and maintainer training systems courseware, electronic warfare simulation test capability, and low-observable technologies.

Click here to learn more about Northrop Grumman’s role on the F-35 Lightning II.

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Northrop Grumman Selected to Continue F-35 Program Mission Critical Work

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 22:00:00 GMT

CANBERRA, Australia – Feb. 22, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Australia, a fully owned subsidiary of Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), welcomes the announcement of the assignment of maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade (MRO&U) work for the multinational F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program to the Australian defence industry.

Photo courtesy of Lockheed Martin

Under this assignment announcement, Northrop Grumman Australia and fellow Australian companies, BAE Systems, MOOG, RUAG, NIOA, Survitec, and GE Aviation, will provide the capabilities underpinning thirteen of seventeen MRO&U component repair technology groups assigned to the Asia-Pacific region. These categories, assigned to Australian industry by the U.S. Department of Defense for the sustainment of F-35 Lightning IIs based in the Asia-Pacific region, include depot repair for avionics, munitions/weapons delivery, canopy systems, aircraft composite structure, electro-optical systems, electrical components, valves, auxiliary power systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, pneudraulics, hydro-mechanical systems, landing gear, life support and pumps.

“Northrop Grumman Australia continues to be fully committed to growing its in-country technical sustainment workforce and capabilities, and this work will allow us to continue supporting the Royal Australian Air Force’s (RAAF) mission and the Australian defence industry at large,” said Warren King, interim chief executive, Northrop Grumman Australia. “We are grateful to our industry teammates, the Australian JSF Division, the Commonwealth government, and the U.S. JPO for this recognition.”

Northrop Grumman’s capabilities related to F-35 are reinforced by the company’s support to the RAAF’s KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport, Special Purpose Aircraft fleet and C-27J Spartan battlefield airlifter. With the sustainment and modernisation solutions we will offer for other mission-critical platforms such as the MQ-4C Triton, Northrop Grumman is well positioned to continue to drive strategic value creation in the MRO market.

Based on the assignment, Northrop Grumman Australia will deliver avionics, composites (teaming with Quickstep) and electro-optics repair (teaming with BAE Systems) services. In providing these services, the company will leverage its existing capabilities, as well as introduce new technologies to the Australian defence industrial community. To further support the execution of this assignment, Northrop Grumman Australia is establishing an Electronic Sustainment Centre (ESC) to sustain mission-readiness capabilities within the Commonwealth. After achieving readiness in January 2019 to support regional APN-241 radar repair, the ESC is prepared to support key fifth-generation communications, navigation, and identification systems.

“MRO&U components are one element of the F-35 global sustainment solution. As the U.S. and partner nations activate their F-35 fleets, Northrop Grumman and its industry team will continue to ensure critical systems are available for tasking and mission training,” said Steve Hogan, vice president, global sustainment and technology services supply chain, Northrop Grumman Technology Services.

This assignment builds upon the significant contributions made by Northrop Grumman as a principal member of the F-35 industry team and the company’s strong pedigree in platform stewardship. To learn more, please visit: http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/F35Lightning/Pages/default.aspx

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Northrop Grumman Welcomes Selection of UK for Second Major Assignment to Provide Global F-35 Avionics and Aircraft Component Repair Services

Tue, 12 Feb 2019 18:00:00 GMT

LONDON – Feb. 12, 2019 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) welcomes the announcement by the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) in the U.S. that the U.K.’s European repair hub for F-35 avionics and aircraft components, based in North Wales, has been awarded a second major assignment of work.

This builds on the global assignment awarded to the U.K. in November 2016 to provide maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade (MRO&U) services for F-35 Lightning II Air Vehicle Depot-Level Repairable Components.

F-35 1st UK arrival RAF Marham. (Photo Credit: Thinh D Nguyen/Lockheed Martin)

Northrop Grumman is a full partner in the Sealand Support Services Ltd. (SSSL) joint venture with the U.K. government-owned, Defence Electronics and Components Agency and BAE Systems. SSSL will provide maintenance and repair of avionics and aircraft components for hundreds of European-based F-35 aircraft at MOD Sealand.

“The selection of the U.K. and SSSL to undertake this work recognises the military aircraft support skills and capabilities that we have here,” said Nick Chaffey, chief executive, Northrop Grumman U.K. and Europe. “Northrop Grumman’s commitment to the U.K. and the F-35 programme, deep expertise in air systems and proven experience working alongside global customers delivering support solutions, will ensure that engineering excellence and world-class innovation will be brought to F-35 component MRO&U services.”

This new assignment of work, worth some £500 million, will support hundreds of additional F-35 jobs in the U.K. - many of them at the MOD’s Defence and Electronics Components Agency (DECA) at MOD Sealand, where the majority of the work will be carried out. It will see crucial maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade services for an even wider range of F-35 avionic, electronic and electrical systems for hundreds of European-based F-35 aircraft.

Rear-Admiral Rick Thompson, SSSL managing director said, “From 2020, there will be hundreds of F-35s flying across the globe and SSSL will be central to sustaining operations in the European region and around the world, providing essential MRO&U services. Together with our partners from DECA, BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman, as Team U.K., SSSL will be able to offer the F-35 programme engineering excellence, world-class innovation and agility. It is hoped that this will be the start of a 40-year endeavour that continues the U.K.’s already long and proud involvement in the F-35 programme, which makes us very much part of this aircraft’s DNA and the F-35 global enterprise.”

“MRO&U components are one element of the Northrop Grumman F-35 global sustainment solutions. As the U.S., partner nations and global customers activate their fleets, Northrop Grumman and the industry team will continue to ensure F-35 Lightning II weapon systems are available for tasking and mission training,” said Steve Hogan, sector vice president, global sustainment and technology services supply chain, Northrop Grumman.

This award builds upon the significant contribution made by Northrop Grumman in the development and production of the aircraft as a principal member of the F-35 industry team, together with its strong pedigree in platform support, upgrade and sustainment.

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Northrop Grumman Begins Full-Rate Production of F-35 Lightning II Center Fuselage

Fri, 29 Jun 2018 14:00:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif. – June 29, 2018 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) center fuselage of the F-35 Lightning II recently entered full-rate production. This milestone marks the beginning of a 1.5-day production interval (PI) meaning a center fuselage will be produced every day and a half.

Northrop Grumman quality team performs final inspection of an F-35 center fuselage produced by the company at its Palmdale Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence.

“Our customers and warfighters deserve the best,” said Frank Carus, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman. “Every efficiency, every minute, and every dollar we save reduces costs and speeds up the F-35’s availability to the warfighter. Achieving this pace is a testament to our employees, suppliers and teammates’ commitment to quality and affordability.”

Carus also noted that the 400th F-35 center fuselage was completed and delivered to Lockheed Martin last month and production of the 500th F-35 center fuselage began last week.

“This pace of military aircraft production has not been seen in decades,” said Kevin Mickey, sector vice president and general manager, military aircraft systems, Northrop Grumman. “Our revolutionary approach on the integrated assembly line pairs advanced technology with data-driven analytics to manufacture advanced aircraft while delivering top quality products on time, and often ahead of schedule.”

A core structure of the F-35 Lightning II aircraft, the center fuselage is produced on Northrop Grumman's integrated assembly line (IAL) at its Palmdale Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence. The IAL is a state-of-the-art facility supported by technologies exclusive to or pioneered by Northrop Grumman bringing together robotics, autonomous systems, virtual 3D and predictive automation to the forefront of center fuselage production.

“As we prepare for full rate production of the F-35, many of our teammates and suppliers are now transitioning to full rate, aligning their production lead times with the F-35 final assembly that supports increased warfighter demand,” said Eric Branyan, vice president of F-35 supply chain at Lockheed Martin. “Northrop Grumman plays a critical role in the F-35 enterprise and we look forward to continuing to reduce costs, improve efficiencies and deliver transformational F-35 capabilities for the men and women in uniform.”

Northrop Grumman plays a key role in the development and production of the F-35 weapons system. In addition to producing the jet's center fuselage and wing skins for the aircraft, the company develops, produces and maintains several sensor systems, avionics, mission systems and mission-planning software, pilot and maintainer training systems courseware, electronic warfare simulation test capability, and low-observable technologies.

Click here to learn more about Northrop Grumman’s role on the F-35 Lightning II.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in autonomous systems, cyber, C4ISR, 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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Northrop Grumman Delivers Advanced F-35 Electronic Warfare Simulation Capability to Navy

Mon, 07 May 2018 12:00:00 GMT

BUFFALO, N.Y. – May 7, 2018 – Preparing the F-35, the U.S. Navy’s most advanced fighter, for missions in today’s complex electromagnetic spectrum environment requires an equally advanced test environment. Northrop Grumman’s (NYSE: NOC) multispectral testing solution recreates the most accurate mission-like conditions in the laboratory and on the range. Recently, NAWCWD Point Mugu took delivery of the most sophisticated test environment the company has ever created.

The CEESIM, SMS and SCS systems delivered to the U.S. Navy for the F-35 provide RF simulation, measurement and synchronization of multiple, simultaneous emitters to faithfully simulate true-to-war conditions.

The environment consists of Northrop Grumman’s Combat Electromagnetic Environment Simulator (CEESIM), Signal Measurement System (SMS) and other stimulators, all under control of the Synchronizer Controller System (SCS).

“Keeping the F-35’s systems ready requires a fully integrated test environment like we have developed with CEESIM, SMS and SCS,” said Joe Downie, director, land and avionics C4ISR division, Northrop Grumman Mission Systems. “These systems work together to provide the environment complexity and density, measurement and analysis capability, and test control capability necessary to evaluate the F-35 in a realistic mission scenario.”

At the center of the environment is the CEESIM, which simulates multiple, simultaneous RF emitters as well as static and dynamic platform attributes to faithfully model true-to-war conditions. CEESIM’s Advanced Pulse Generation high speed direct digital synthesizer technology is used to generate realistic electronic warfare mission scenarios.

The SMS provides wide bandwidth signal measurement, recording and analysis capability which is used to validate the test environment and evaluate the system under test performance.

The SCS provides the tools to program an integrated multispectral test scenario, including threat radars, communications signals, radar and EO/IR signatures. The SCS also manages the execution of the scenario by all of the stimulators to ensure a coherent multispectral test environment.

To learn more about CEESIM, SMS, and SCS visit: http://www.northropgrumman.com/Capabilities/CEESIM/Pages/default.aspx.

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F-35 MRO&U Team Selected for Prestigious Defence Acquisition Award

Thu, 21 Dec 2017 17:00:00 GMT

LONDON – Dec. 21, 2017 – Team UK, the F-35 Lightning II maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade (MRO&U) bid team—an innovative partnership between the government-owned Defence Electronics and Components Agency (DECA), BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman—has received a prestigious award at this year’s Minister for Defence Procurement (Min DP) Acquisition Awards.

The F-35 MRO&U Team UK pictured with Air Marshal Julian Young, Chief of Materiel (Air), DE&S at the awards ceremony

Team UK was among the eleven teams rewarded for their outstanding achievements. In addition to receiving a Min DP Acquisition Award, Team UK was also presented with a Special Award, representing the top honour.

Now in its fifteenth year, the Min DP Acquisition Awards recognise teams from across defence for their exceptional performance, innovation, effort and commitment in the field of acquisition. The award was presented by Harriett Baldwin MP, Minister for Defence Procurement during a special ceremony on Nov. 28 at the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

In November 2016, as a result of the efforts of Team UK, the US F-35 Joint Program Office announced the assignment of the UK to provide global MRO&U services for F-35 air vehicle depot-level repairable components. The government/industry partnership team, now embodied as Sealand Support Services Limited (SSSL), will provide these services from MoD Sealand in northeast Wales.

“Securing F-35 component MRO&U work against very stiff international competition was a significant achievement, which will provide long term benefits for the F-35 programme and for the UK” said Andy Hewitt, Deputy Head Lightning Project Team, DE&S. “The F-35 Component MRO&U team, a joint cross government and industry team, is proud to be recognised for its achievement by receiving a Min DP Award”.

“This award is a tribute to the strong partnership and unparalleled collaboration between DECA, BAE Systems and Northrop Grumman,” said Andrew Tyler, chairman, SSSL. “The collaborative approach was central to the success of the UK’s bid and continues to be built upon as we progress towards the F-35 entering service across the globe.”

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Northrop Grumman and Royal Air Force Demonstrate Enhanced Airborne Communications Interoperability Between 5th and 4th Generation Fast-Jet Aircraft

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 22:18:00 GMT

LONDON – Feb. 15, 2017 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) and the Royal Air Force (RAF) have successfully completed a communications interoperability trial involving both F-35B Lightning II and Typhoon FGR4 aircraft, via an Airborne Gateway developed by Northrop Grumman.

The two-week trial, named Babel Fish III, funded by the Ministry of Defence (MOD), was recently conducted in airspace above the upper Mojave Desert, California, as part of the RAF’s Exercise High Rider.

During the trial, the Northrop Grumman Airborne Gateway connected the fifth-generation F-35B, which communicates using the stealthy Multifunction Advanced Data Link (MADL), and the fourth-generation Typhoon, by translating MADL messages to Link 16 format. Link 16 is the U.S. and NATO military tactical data link used by some military aircraft, ships and ground forces to communicate and exchange tactical data. The F-35 and the Typhoon can communicate directly via Link 16 but previously could not communicate or share certain fifth-generation information.

This is the first time non-U.S. fifth- and fourth-generation aircraft have shared MADL delivered data and is an important demonstration of interoperability as the UK moves closer to initial operating capability of its F-35 Lightning II Force in late 2018.

“Being able to network sensor data between fifth-generation and fourth-generation fast-jets and other battlespace assets in a stealthy manner is critically important to enabling the full capability offered by fifth-generation aircraft,” said Andrew Tyler, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Europe. “We are pleased to have played our part in this successful trial, the output of which will help the MOD to broaden its understanding of the effect that can be generated by its fifth-generation combat-air fleet.”

“I have been enormously impressed both by the collegiate effort to make the Babel Fish III trial happen so successfully, and the specific outcomes of the trial,” said Air Commodore Linc Taylor, Senior Responsible Owner, for the UK’s F-35 Programme. “This marks another great step forward in interoperability between our fourth- and fifth- generation aircraft, putting the RAF at the forefront of this work. We plan to continue to understand and develop where the most capability and interoperability benefit lies through a series of future trials along similar lines.”

Bridging this fifth-to-fourth generation platform interoperability gap was made possible by the inclusion of a Northrop Grumman Freedom 550^™ software-defined radio in the Airborne Gateway. The Freedom 550^™ is derived from the integrated communications, navigation and identification avionics suite the company developed and manufactures for the F-35; it was validated under the Jetpack Joint Capability Technology Demonstration programme, an effort sponsored by the Office of the Secretary of Defense and U.S. Air Force that concluded in 2014.

Northrop Grumman’s Airborne Gateway translates and relays information from various sources across diverse platforms and domains to enhance interoperability, situational awareness, communications and coordination for warfighters in the air, on the ground and at sea. The system is derived from the combat-proven airborne communications node that Northrop Grumman provides to the U.S. Air Force.

Northrop Grumman deployed a similar Airborne Gateway capability in March 2016 to support Australia’s Exercise Jericho Dawn 16-3, successfully demonstrating the powerful effects of integrated air and land operations during this live-fire exercise.

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Northrop Grumman Australia Welcomes the Awarding of F-35 MRO&U Work to Australian Defence Industry

Fri, 11 Nov 2016 16:49:00 GMT

CANBERRA, Australia – Nov. 11, 2016 – Northrop Grumman Australia, a fully owned Australian subsidiary of Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), welcomes the announcement of the assignment of a significant amount of maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade (MRO&U) work for the multinational F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program to the Australian defence industry.

Under this assignment announcement, Northrop Grumman Australia and fellow team members, BAE Systems Australia, Rockwell Collins Australia, GE Aviation Systems Australia and Quickstep will provide the capabilities that underpin six of the 10 MRO&U Repair Technology Categories (RTC). These categories were assigned to Australian industry by the U.S. JSF Program Office (JPO) for the sustainment of F-35 Lightning IIs based in the Asia/Pacific region, including the 72 F-35As on order for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

“The assignment of this work to Australia is an endorsement of the health and growth of the Australian defence industry, and an acknowledgement of Northrop Grumman Australia’s continued commitment to growing its technical sustainment workforce and capabilities in country,” said Ian Irving, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Australia. “We are grateful to our industry teammates, the Australian Joint Strike Fighter Division, the Commonwealth government, and the U.S. JPO for this recognition.”

“The capabilities we bring to F-35 for Australia are reinforced by our delivery of support to the RAAF’s KC-30A Multi-Role Transport Tanker and Special Purpose Aircraft fleets, and engine sustainment work through our Northrop Grumman Integrated Defence Services operating unit. Coupled with the sustainment and modernisation solutions we will offer for other mission-critical platforms, including Triton for maritime surveillance and C-27J for battlefield airlift support, Northrop Grumman is well positioned to help continue to drive strategic value creation in the Australian defence-MRO market,” Irving concluded.

“MRO&U components are one element of Northrop Grumman F-35 global sustainment solutions,” said Steve Hogan, vice president, Global Sustainment, Northrop Grumman Technology Services. “As the U.S., partner nations such as Australia, and global customers activate their fleets, Northrop Grumman and the industry team will continue to ensure F-35 Lightning II weapon systems are available for tasking and mission training.”

Specifically, Northrop Grumman has received JPO assignment to deliver regional F-35 Component MRO&U services for both the RF Avionics (RTC B2) and for Composite Structures (RTC C), including the associated maintenance of low-observable technologies . In providing these services, Northrop Grumman will leverage its existing capabilities, as well as introduce new capabilities and technologies to the Australian defence industrial community.

Northrop Grumman Australia will continue to engage with specialist small to medium enterprises that support the Australian Defence Forces with unique capabilities. The locations where this work will be conducted, the value of the work, and the size of the workforce required are expected to be finalised in the coming months.

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Northrop Grumman Welcomes Selection of UK for Global F-35 Lightning II Component Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul and Upgrade Services

Mon, 07 Nov 2016 14:50:00 GMT

LONDON – Nov. 7, 2016 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) welcomes the announcement by the F-35 Joint Program Office (JPO) in the U.S. that it has assigned the U.K. to provide global maintenance, repair, overhaul and upgrade (MRO&U) services for F-35 Lightning II Air Vehicle Depot-Level Repairable Components.

Northrop Grumman is part of the innovative partnership between the U.K. government-owned, Defence Electronics and Components Agency, and BAE Systems that will provide these services. The MRO&U services will be operational in early 2018 and will be based at MoD Sealand in northeast Wales.

“The selection of the U.K. to undertake this work is a notable achievement and recognises the military aircraft support skills and capabilities that we have here in the U.K.,” said Andrew Tyler, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Europe. “Northrop Grumman has proven experience working alongside global customers delivering innovative support solutions and we look forward to working closely with our partners and the JPO to bring that experience to F-35 component MRO&U services.”

“MRO&U components are one element of the Northrop Grumman F-35 global sustainment solutions. As the U.S., partner nations, and global customers activate their fleets, Northrop Grumman and the industry team will continue to ensure F-35 Lightning II weapon systems are available for tasking and mission training,” said Steve Hogan, vice president, Global Sustainment, Northrop Grumman Technology Services.

This announcement builds upon the contribution made by Northrop Grumman’s crucial role in the development and production of the aircraft as a principal member of the F-35 industry team, together with our strong pedigree in platform support, upgrade and sustainment.

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Northrop Grumman Delivers Center Fuselage for First Japanese F-35 Aircraft

Tue, 08 Dec 2015 16:11:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif., Dec. 8, 2015 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has delivered the center fuselage for Japan's first F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, an F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft designated AX-1.

"This on-time delivery marks another important step in the F-35 team's drive to support and help fulfill our allies' 21 ^st century national security requirements," said Brian Chappel, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems. "We're proud of the role that Northrop Grumman's F-35 Integrated Assembly Line [IAL] is playing in increasing the affordability and availability of this fifth-generation, multirole fighter."

The center fuselage is a core structure of the F-35 aircraft. As a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team, Northrop Grumman designed and produces the center fuselage for all three F-35 variants: the F-35A; the F-35B short takeoff vertical landing variant; and the F-35C carrier variant.

Each F-35 receives an alphanumeric designation based on its variant type (A, B or C), the country for which it flies (e.g., F = U.S., K= United Kingdom, X = Japan), and sequence number of the jet.

The AX-1 center fuselage is one of 42 F-35 center fuselages that Northrop Grumman is producing for Japan. It is the 206th center fuselage that the company has produced at its Palmdale Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence, and the 44th such unit delivered this year.

The first four Japanese F-35As, including AX-1, will undergo final assembly and checkout (FACO) at Lockheed Martin's F-35 facility in Fort Worth, Texas. The remaining 38 Japanese jets (AX-5 through AX-42) will be completed at Japan's new F-35 FACO facility in Nagoya, Japan.

The IAL is a highly automated set of work cells developed to assemble – efficiently, affordably and with high precision – the center fuselage for all three F-35 variants. In 2013, the IAL was designated the "Assembly Plant of the Year" by Assembly Magazine, the first and only time to date that this honor has been bestowed on an aerospace and defense contractor.

Northrop Grumman plays a key role in the development and production of the F-35 weapons system. In addition to producing the jet's center fuselage, the company produces its radar, electro-optical, avionics and communications subsystems. It also develops mission systems and mission-planning software; develops and maintains pilot and maintainer training systems courseware; and manages the team's use, support and maintenance of low-observable technologies.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in unmanned systems, cyber, C4ISR, and logistics and modernization to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.

  CONTACT: Brooks McKinney, APR
         310-812-4964 office
         310-864-3785 mobile
         brooks.mckinney@ngc.com

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Northrop Grumman Delivers Center Fuselage for First Israeli F-35 Aircraft

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 16:00:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif., Nov. 18, 2015 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has delivered, on schedule, the center fuselage for the first F-35 Joint Strike Fighter to be purchased by Israel, an F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant designated AS-1.

A core structure of the F-35 aircraft, the center fuselage was produced on Northrop Grumman's F-35 Integrated Assembly Line at its Palmdale Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence.

"The delivery of the AS-1 center fuselage is a significant addition to the growing list of allied countries that have invested in owning and fielding the fifth generation F-35 aircraft," said Brian Chappel, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems. "It also adds momentum to the success of our highly automated Integrated Assembly Line, which is helping increase the production rate, quality and affordability of the F-35 program."

To date, Northrop Grumman has completed center fuselages for F-35 customers in eight countries including the U.S.

As a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team, Northrop Grumman designed and produces the center fuselage for all three F-35 variants: the F-35A; the F-35B short takeoff vertical landing variant; and the F-35C carrier variant.

The company produced the AS-1 center fuselage as part of the eighth low rate initial production lot of F-35s. AS-1 is the 39 ^th center delivered by Northrop Grumman from Palmdale this year.

Israel has ordered 33 F-35As under the U.S. government's foreign military sales program. These jets are similar to the F-35As produced for F-35 international partner countries, except they will require minor software and hardware modifications to accommodate several Israel-provided avionics components.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics will perform final assembly and checkout of the F-35s in Fort Worth, Texas. The first Israeli F-35 is slated for delivery in 2016.

Northrop Grumman plays a key role in the development and production of the F-35 weapons system. In addition to producing the jet's center fuselage, the company produces key F-35 radar, electro-optical, avionics and communications subsystems. It also develops mission systems and mission-planning software; develops and maintains pilot and maintainer training systems courseware; and manages the team's use, support and maintenance of low-observable technologies.

  CONTACT: Brooks McKinney, APR
         310-812-4964 office
         310-864-3785 mobile
         brooks.mckinney@ngc.com

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Northrop Grumman Completes Center Fuselage for First F-35 Aircraft to Be Assembled in Japan

Mon, 05 Oct 2015 02:00:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif., Oct. 4, 2015 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has completed – on budget and on schedule – the center fuselage for the first F-35 Lightning II aircraft to be assembled in Japan's F-35 Final Assembly and Checkout (FACO) facility in Nagoya, Japan. The center fuselage, designated AX-5, will be integrated into an F-35A conventional takeoff and landing variant.

Northrop Grumman celebrated the production milestone with a brief ceremony Oct. 2 at its Palmdale Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence, the site of its F-35 Integrated Assembly Line (IAL). Consul General of Japan Hidehisa Horinouchi, based in Los Angeles, attended the ceremony on behalf of the Japanese government along with executives from Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin, the F-35 prime contractor.

"Today's event marks another significant step toward helping the Department of Defense produce a fifth-generation, multirole fighter that can meet the common air combat requirements of the U.S. and its allies," said Brian Chappel, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems. "Using our Integrated Assembly Line, we're continuing to increase the affordability and quality of the F-35 center fuselage, while steadily increasing our production rate. Our success is helping the F-35 industry team meet the operational need dates of our international customers."

The center fuselage is a core structure of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. As a principal member of the F-35 industry team, Northrop Grumman designed and produces the center fuselage for all three F-35 variants: the F-35A; the F-35B short takeoff vertical landing variant; and the F-35C carrier variant.

The AX-5 center fuselage is one of 42 center fuselages that Northrop Grumman will produce for Japan. It is the 207th center fuselage that the company has produced at its Palmdale site, and the 30th such unit delivered this year.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will perform final assembly and checkout of the Japanese F-35As. The process includes mating the center fuselage to the forward fuselage/cockpit and wings produced by Lockheed Martin, and the aft fuselage produced by BAE Systems.

  CONTACT: Brooks McKinney, APR
         310-812-4964 office
         310-864-3785 mobile
         brooks.mckinney@ngc.com

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Northrop Grumman Expands F-35 Global Supply Chain in Europe; Signs Long-Term Agreement with Norway's Kitron AS

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 15:15:00 GMT

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 22, 2015 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has signed a long-term agreement with Norway-based Kitron AS to supply subassembly electronic modules for F-35 Lightning II aircraft avionics. The agreement is effective through June 30, 2036, and includes rights for future extensions.

Northrop Grumman developed the Communication, Navigation and Identification (CNI) avionics for the F-35, a fifth-generation, international, multirole fighter and the world's most advanced military aircraft.

The first F-35A Lightning II for Norway is scheduled for delivery September 22.

"Northrop Grumman is committed to developing a cost-effective and technically superior source that would provide the best value for the F-35 CNI program," said Jeannie Hilger, vice president, network communication systems, Northrop Grumman Information Systems. "We established a cooperative, supportive relationship with Kitron and forged this agreement to formalize our partnership."

Northrop Grumman's integrated CNI suite provides F-35 pilots with the capability of more than 27 avionics functions including voice and data communication. The CNI design uses advanced software-defined radio technology that allows the simultaneous operation of multiple critical functions while greatly reducing size, weight and power demands on the advanced fighter aircraft.

"The CNI system is critically important to the F-35 and provides the aircraft with its ability to be integrated into the wider battlespace," said Andrew Tyler, chief executive, Europe, Northrop Grumman. "This agreement will further strengthen the deep partnership with Norway that we have built up over the years and which dates back to 1940." Â Â

For more than a decade, the United States, Norway and seven other partner nations have invested in developing the F-35. In addition to the nine partners, three countries have agreed to procure F-35 aircraft through the Foreign Military Sales process.

Northrop Grumman also recently awarded Kitron a four-year, $2.5 million contract to develop a test program set (TPS) for evaluating and troubleshooting F-35 avionics. The TPS equipment consists of complex Interface Test Assemblies that work with the LM-STAR test system developed by Lockheed Martin, the F-35 prime contractor.

"This agreement affirms Kitron's position with Northrop Grumman as an important partner and supplier of complex electronic modules and technical services including test development, as well as a source for repair of avionics for the Joint Strike Fighter," said Hans Petter Thomassen, managing director of Kitron AS.

As a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team, Northrop Grumman performs a significant share of the work required to develop and produce the aircraft. In addition to developing and producing the CNI system, Northrop Grumman produces the center fuselage; designed and produces the AN/AAQ-37 Distributed Aperture System sensor and the aircraft's radar and electro-optical subsystem; develops mission systems and mission planning software; leads the team's development of pilot and maintenance training system courseware; and manages the team's use, support and maintenance of low-observable technologies.

Kitron AS, a subsidiary of Kitron ASA, is one of Scandinavia's leading electronic manufacturing services companies. The company provides electronic manufacturing services to the data/telecoms, defense, energy, industry, medical equipment and offshore/marine industries. The company is located in Norway, Sweden, Lithuania, Germany, China and the United States. Kitron had revenue of about NOK 1.6 billion in 2013 and has about 1,200 employees. www.kitron.com

  CONTACT: Janis Lamar
         703-556-1650
         janis.lamar@ngc.com
         
         Ken Beedle
         +44 (0) 207 747 1910
         +44 (0) 7787 174092
         ken.beedle@euro.ngc.com

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Photo Release -- Northrop Grumman Delivers Work Instructions With Light on F-35 Assembly Line

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 12:37:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif., Sept. 15, 2015 -- Aircraft mechanics at Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) are looking at their work instructions in a new light following the official start of operations for a unique optical projection system on the company's F-35 Lightning II Integrated Assembly Line (IAL).

Known as FILLS, or Fastener Insertion Live Link System, the new approach automates many of the steps currently used by mechanics to verify, select and insert the thousands of fasteners used to attach composite panels to the contoured frame of the F-35 aircraft. Its 3-D optical projection technology and wireless handling of fastener hole measurement data are fundamentally changing the way mechanics assemble complex, high precision aircraft structures.

Northrop Grumman used FILLS to help assemble a production F-35 center fuselage â AF-106, an F-35A variant â July 6.

"FILLS is a critical part in our plan to increase F-35 affordability," said Brian Chappel, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems. "It simplifies and streamlines our center fuselage production process, which allows our mechanics to work faster, more efficiently, with a higher degree of precision."

FILLS is one of many projects funded by Northrop Grumman under the F-35 program's Blueprint for Affordability initiative, he added. Its integration into the IAL is expected to save approximately $77 million over the life of the program.

Developed by Variation Reduction Solutions, Inc., Delta Sigma Corporation and Northrop Grumman in collaboration with the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, FILLS provides a fast, automatic pathway for mechanics to identify and install fasteners in an aircraft composite panel according to that aircraft's "as-built" condition instead of the "perfect world" configuration defined by its engineering drawings.

In a typical installation, FILLS guides a mechanic systematically through the process of measuring the depth of each fastener hole in a panel. This data is transferred wirelessly from the measuring device to an electronic database where it is used to create a custom kit of fasteners for each panel. When panels are ready for installation on the aircraft frame, FILLS projects on each panel, in sequence, the part number and location of each fastener type to be installed in that panel. Guided by these "on-surface" work instructions, the mechanic installs all fasteners of type A, then all fasteners of type B etc.

"One of the significant benefits of FILLS is that it simplifies the training necessary for a mechanic to become proficient at installing fasteners," said Fritzi Moneza, lead manufacturing project engineer, FILLS, Northrop Grumman. "It also all but eliminates the repair costs associated with installing the wrong fastener in the wrong hole."

Northrop Grumman is currently using FILLS to assemble center fuselages for F-35A (conventional takeoff and landing) variants. The company plans to extend FILLS use to center fuselages for F-35B (short takeoff vertical landing) and F-35C (carrier) variants in the third quarter of 2015.

Northrop Grumman is a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team. In addition to producing the center fuselage for all three F-35 variants, the company designed and produces the aircraft's radar and other key electro-optical and communications subsystems; develops mission systems and mission-planning software; leads the team's development of pilot and maintenance training system courseware; and manages the team's use, support and maintenance of low-observable technologies.

  CONTACT: Brooks McKinney, APR
         310-812-4964 office
         310-864-3785 mobile
         brooks.mckinney@ngc.com

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Photo Release -- Northrop Grumman Increases Production Rate for F-35 Center Fuselages

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 19:00:00 GMT

PALMDALE, Calif., Sept. 10, 2015 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) is again increasing the rate at which it produces center fuselages for the F-35 Lightning II program.

On Aug. 11, the company began producing the center fuselage for BK-10 – the 10th F-35B variant for the United Kingdom – with a shorter production interval (PI) that will shave almost a month and a half off the time needed to produce the fuselage.

The new three-day PI, down from the four-day PI that's been in effect since last August, will enable Northrop Grumman to produce a center fuselage in just over 10 months compared to the approximately 11½ months needed currently. The production interval is the average number of work days between starts or completions of center fuselage.

"This increase in tempo on our F-35 Integrated Assembly Line [IAL] is part of a coordinated, pre-planned effort by Northrop Grumman and its suppliers to help meet rising F-35 production requirements," said Brian Chappel, vice president and F-35 program manager, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems. "It also reflects our steady progress increasing the efficiency of the production line, and the size and skills of our workforce."

One of the company's final activities under the four-day PI, he noted, was the completion of the 200 ^th center fuselage, AF-97, the 97th F-35A variant for the U.S. Air Force. That hardware was delivered July 29.

The PI on Northrop Grumman's IAL has dropped steadily from an initial level of approximately eight days when the line first opened in March 2011 to the current three. Under the F-35 full rate production plan, it would drop to approximately 1.5 work days in 2018.

According to David Tracy, director of Northrop Grumman's F-35 center fuselage integrated product team, it will take approximately nine months for the new PI to be fully implemented on the IAL.

"We'll change to a three-day PI station by station as BK-10 moves down the line," he explains. "In parallel, our customers will be preparing to begin receiving our center fuselages on a three-day interval as well. When BK-10 is complete, the IAL will be fully converted to a three-day PI. At that point, we'll start delivering center fuselages at the rate of one every three work days."

The Northrop Grumman-developed IAL, which was named assembly line of the year in 2013 by Assembly magazine, makes heavy use of robotics and automation. It allows the company to produce F-35 center fuselages with levels of engineering precision, quality and manufacturing efficiency not achievable using conventional manual production methods.

As a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team, Northrop Grumman performs a significant share of the work required to develop and produce all three variants of the jet. Besides producing the F-35 center fuselage, the company designed and produces the aircraft's radar and other key electro-optical and communications subsystems; develops mission systems and mission-planning software; leads the team's development of pilot and maintenance training system courseware; and manages the team's use, support and maintenance of low-observable technologies.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company that provides innovative systems, products and solutions in unmanned systems, cyber, C4ISR, and logistics and modernization to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information.

  CONTACT: Brooks McKinney, APR
         310-812-4964 (office)
         310-864-3785 (mobile)
         brooks.mckinney@ngc.com

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Northrop Grumman Delivers 1,000th Distributed Aperture System for the F-35

Wed, 18 Feb 2015 15:00:00 GMT

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. â Feb. 18, 2015 â Marking another on-time delivery, Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) recently supplied the 1,000th AN/AAQ-37 Distributed Aperture System (DAS) sensor for integration on the F-35 Lightning II aircraft.

The six infrared DAS sensors on the F-35 provide full spherical situational awareness to the pilot, day and night. The DAS provides a revolutionary capability to autonomously detect and track aircraft and missiles in every direction, while projecting video directly into the pilot's helmet mounted display and eliminating cockpit obscurities. With DAS, the pilot has an unprecedented view and awareness of the surrounding world.

In flight testing, the DAS has demonstrated the ability to expand into additional missions and platforms, including ballistic missile defense, hostile ground fire detection and unmanned aircraft operations. DAS flight demonstrations have included tracking a rocket to over 800 miles (1300km) distance.

"With 1,000 sensors delivered, we have demonstrated the maturity and affordability of our DAS technology," said David Partridge, director, F-35 Radar and DAS programs, Northrop Grumman. "The system provides fifth generation awareness and protection unparalleled in legacy aircraft and continues to show its versatility and applicability to a wide range of additional missions and platforms."

As a principal member of the Lockheed Martin-led F-35 industry team, Northrop Grumman performs a significant share of the work required to develop and produce the aircraft. In addition to producing DAS, Northrop Grumman designed and produces the F-35's AN/APG-81 radar and communications subsystems avionics; produces the center fuselage; develops mission systems and mission-planning software; leads the team's development of pilot and maintenance training system courseware; and manages the team's use, support and maintenance of low-observable technologies.

  CONTACT: Yolanda Murphy
         410-649-0640
         yolanda.murphy@ngc.com
         
         Stephen Lamb
         224-625-4627
         stephen.lamb@ngc.com

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