FALLS CHURCH, Va., Aug. 2, 2012 -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) announced today that it has selected Karen A. Williams, vice president contracts, pricing and supply chain. Williams will report to James F. Palmer, corporate vice president and chief financial officer. She will replace Susan L. CotĂŠ, who has announced her intention to retire from the company.

"Karen Williams brings a wealth of experience in general management, business management and government contracting," Palmer said. "Her broad experience provides her with a great foundation to lead the contracts, pricing and supply chain activities across our corporation."

In her new role, Williams will lead all aspects of contracts, pricing and supply chain. She will be responsible for the company's risk review process, and will provide companywide policy, direction, training and oversight of contracts and pricing.

Williams will serve as the principal interface with key government regulators regarding all contract and pricing matters, government regulatory policy and oversight. She also will develop and implement companywide supply chain strategies and key processes, including socio-economic business planning, strategy and compliance relative to its supply chain.

Williams currently serves as vice president and general manager of the Defense Technologies division in Northrop Grumman's Information Systems sector. This division provides end-to-end support systems and services for defense customers. Previously, she was vice president for Air and Missile Defense Systems, a business unit within the Information Systems sector. She also was business management director responsible for a large systems integration operating unit, where she directed financial reporting, contract administration, business management, procurement, government property, rates management, compliance and resources. Williams also served as director of contracts for a defense business unit in the company.

Williams is the founding sponsor of Northrop Grumman's Women in Leadership Program, established to promote the professional growth of women professionals. She serves on the company's Corporate Diversity and Inclusion Council.

Williams has a bachelor's degree from the University of Delaware and a master's degree in procurement and acquisition management from American University's Kogod School of Business in Washington, D.C.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global security company providing innovative systems, products and solutions in aerospace, electronics, information systems, and technical services to government and commercial customers worldwide. Please visit www.northropgrumman.com for more information. 

  CONTACT: Randy Belote
         (703) 280-2720
         randy.belote@ngc.com