Northrop Grumman USA

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Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System Expands the Battlespace During Live-Fire Flight Tests with New Sensor​

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – December 14, 2023 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) continues to demonstrate its role as the transformational cornerstone of the U.S. Army's air and missile defense through its recent integration of the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS).


During advanced live fire flight tests in November and December at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, with LTAMDS, IBCS once again demonstrated its ability to integrate sensors and effectors, fusing data across the battlespace to defeat complex air and missile threats.


During these recent tests, IBCS successfully:

• Detected, identified, and maintained an accurate composite track of incoming low- and high-altitude threats by processing LTAMDS data.

• Engaged and defeated an air-breathing cruise missile surrogate and a theater ballistic missile surrogate through fire control of a Patriot Advanced Capability – 3.

Northrop Grumman integrated the developmental LTAMDS sensor into IBCS, adding to the system’s ability to provide full battlespace awareness. The IBCS-enabled LTAMDS will replace existing Patriot radars when fielded in 2027.

Expert:

Rebecca Torzone, vice president and general manager, combat systems and mission readiness, Northrop Grumman: “Integrating LTAMDS into IBCS marks another critical milestone achieved for this unrivaled battle command system that continues to reshape the battlespace across multiple missions, optimizing current and future networked air and missile defense in a cost-effective manner. With the U.S. Army and global partners, Northrop Grumman will continue to advance IBCS as a paradigm-shattering system able to defeat the threats of today and tomorrow.”

Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System Expands the Battlespace During Live-Fire Flight Tests with New Sensor

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – December 14, 2023 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) continues to demonstrate its role as the transformational cornerstone of the U.S. Army's air and missile defense through its recent...

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Big Booster Benefits – First Flight of Longest Monolithic Solid Rocket Motors​

Northrop Grumman’s GEM 63XL solid rocket boosters to be longest single-segment motors ever flown


Digital engineering and advanced technologies are unlocking new opportunities and accelerating growth in the rapidly evolving space launch industry.


Using virtual reality and monolithic designs, meaning manufactured and cast as a single piece, Northrop Grumman's 63-inch diameter, extended length Graphite Epoxy Motor (GEM 63XL) solid rocket booster (SRB) will make its debut, supporting the inaugural flight of United Launch Alliance's (ULA) Vulcan Centaur rocket on January 8th.

At more than 72 feet long, the GEM 63XL is the longest monolithic SRB ever produced for flight, a designation previously held by its predecessor, the 66-foot long, 63-inch diameter GEM 63.


Manufacturing and casting the GEM 63XL as a single piece makes the motors more reliable and efficient by reducing joints, hardware and overall mass. This is crucial for an SRB of this length that can deliver over 463,000 pounds of thrust to enhance the capabilities of rockets launching the nation’s most critical payloads.


Pioneering Engineering with Virtual Reality

If a picture is worth a thousand words, virtual reality is worth a thousand pictures.


To push the boundaries of possible, the team looked to identify what could be achieved using virtual reality to build the next generation of boosters. The fifth-generation GEM 63XL benefits from flight-proven designs and components, advancing the GEM legacy of increasing capabilities.


Using virtual reality, GEM design and engineering teams were immersed into 360-degree virtual environments to observe and test life-size boosters. In minutes, engineers created 3D computer-aided design (CAD) renderings, put on headsets and thoroughly examined a full-scale model to validate the design before manufacturing began.

“You think you see everything in CAD, but there are restrictions when viewing a two-dimensional design,” said Kevin Foster, chief engineer, GEM 63/63XL, propulsion systems, Northrop Grumman. “We are able to identify potential issues and make design adjustments before production starts which saves us vital time and reduces costs.”


Manufacturing Excellence

Building GEM 63XLs monolithically rather than segmented provides several efficiency benefits, including:

• Reducing hardware and overall mass, to enable a greater thrust-to-weight ratio;
• Reducing motor handling and assembly operations;
• Reducing field joint interfaces and launch-site assembly support;
• Streamlining booster mating to core vehicle;
• Enabling rapid launch cadence scheduling, reducing joints and potential points of failure.

Up to six GEM 63XL SRBs can be integrated with the Vulcan rocket. Together, with the pair of BE-4 engines, powerful liquefied natural gas engines serving as the rocket’s main engine propulsion deliver over 3.3 million pounds of thrust to lift customer payloads to desired orbits.


“Larger, more capable rocket motors, including vehicles that support ride-sharing missions are a result of a customer need to place larger, more advanced payloads into space,” said Robert Gonzalez, senior program director, propulsion systems, Northrop Grumman.


The GEM motors have more capabilities, including their design, and building the motors to be shipped directly to the launch pad with little assembly required.


From manufacturing and processing the booster to its overall performance, the efficiency of the monolithic approach supports customer goals and provides significant benefits including a lighter, more cost-effective and powerful booster.


Leaning Forward

Northrop Grumman continues to invest in upgraded facilities to support the production of these first-of-its-kind motors.

The unique length of the GEM 63XL required buildings, including the rocket motor propellant casting facilities, infrastructure and work cells to be renovated in 2015. The depth of existing casting pits were increased by 20 feet to fit the GEM motors and were modified to include two ports for propellant to be added to two rocket motor cases while using one pit. This process, known as dual casting, improves efficiency, brings cost-savings and increases production.


Northrop Grumman was awarded a new ULA contract in 2022 to increase production of its GEM motors, nearly quadrupling previous production rates to the end of the decade and requiring further expansion of its solid rocket motor manufacturing facilities.


The expansion includes new state-of-the art facilities, modernization of existing facilities, purchase of cutting-edge manufacturing equipment and other support equipment to streamline processes, enhance product delivery and increase capacity and output.


“While much has evolved — from the technology to the facilities to the motor itself — in the GEM program’s latest iteration, the legacy of success and customer focus has remained consistent,” said Gonzalez. “That emphasis will never change.”

Big Booster Benefits – First Flight of Longest Monolithic Solid Rocket Motors

Digital engineering and advanced technologies are unlocking new opportunities and accelerating growth in the rapidly evolving space launch industry.

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Northrop Grumman’s Solid Rocket Boosters Help Power First Launch of ULA’s Vulcan Rocket​

MAGNA, Utah – Jan. 8, 2024 – Two of Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) extended length, 63-inch-diameter Graphite Epoxy Motors (GEM 63XL) solid rocket boosters helped power the inaugural flight of United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) Vulcan Rocket and the first certification (Cert-1) mission.

• The GEM 63XL boosters are the longest monolithic, single-cast solid rocket boosters ever manufactured and flown.

• The launch represents the first flight of the GEM 63XL solid rocket boosters.

• The boosters delivered more than 900,000 pounds of thrust, nearly two-thirds of the vehicle’s total thrust at lift-off.

Expert:

Wendy Williams, vice president and general manager, launch and missile defense systems, Northrop Grumman: “The propulsion capability of our unmatched boosters deliver impressive power and high reliability to our customers. The GEM 63XL boosters represent the next step in our decades of flight-proven heritage of best-in-class propulsion technologies.”


Details on GEM 63XL:

The Cert-1 mission carried two payloads, one that will deliver science and technology to the lunar surface, including Astrobotic’s first Peregrine Lunar Lander, Peregrine Mission One, as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program and the second was Celestis’ Memorial Spaceflights deep-space Voyager mission.


Northrop Grumman began development of the fifth-generation GEM 63XL strap-on boosters in 2015, under a cooperative agreement with ULA to provide additional lift capability for the Vulcan launch vehicle. The motor was qualified for flight in 2020 via static test firing at the company’s Promontory, Utah, test facilities. In June 2022, ULA awarded Northrop Grumman a multi-year contract worth more than $2 billon for increased production of its GEM boosters, which will support Amazon’s Project Kuiper and additional ULA customers.


Northrop Grumman has supplied rocket propulsion to ULA and its heritage companies for various launch vehicles since 1964. The GEM 63XL is an extended length variation of the GEM 63 boosters, which have supported eight Atlas V launches with 27 boosters to date.


The company’s Commerce, Calif., facility also manufactured the Vulcan launch vehicle’s hydrazine diaphragm propellant tank, which feeds the Centaur upper stage Reaction Control System to provide guidance and control during the later stages of launch. This tank is a more powerful successor to the ones previously supplied by Northrop Grumman for the Atlas V and Delta IV programs.

Northrop Grumman’s Solid Rocket Boosters Help Power First Launch of ULA’s Vulcan Rocket

MAGNA, Utah – Jan. 8, 2024 – Two of Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) extended length, 63-inch-diameter Graphite Epoxy Motors (GEM 63XL) solid rocket boosters helped power the inaugural flight of United Launch Alliance’s (ULA) Vulcan Rocket and...

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Northrop Grumman Test Fires Full-Scale Sentinel Stage-Two Solid Rocket Motor​

TULLAHOMA, Tenn. – Jan. 16, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully completed a live, static-fire test of a Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) stage-two solid rocket motor at the U.S. Air Force Arnold Engineering Development Complex. The test was conducted in a vacuum chamber simulating real-world environmental conditions the solid-rocket motor would experience during high-altitude and space flight.

• Test data will be analyzed to determine how motor performance matched digitally engineered model predictions, critical to maturing the design and lowering risk.

• Following this development effort, Northrop Grumman will begin a series of rocket motor qualification testing for both stages.

• Northrop Grumman is designing and producing Stages one and two of the three-stage Sentinel missile.

• This test was conducted under the company’s engineering, manufacturing, and development (EMD), or design contract for Sentinel. Northrop Grumman continues to perform on this phase and is working closely with the Air Force on progressing EMD milestones.

Expert:

Sarah Willoughby, vice president and program manager, Sentinel, Northrop Grumman: “Our successful test moves us forward for qualification testing in partnership with the Air Force. The test’s data gives us an accurate reading of our design’s performance and now informs our modeling and designs. This lowers risk and builds confidence in our approach to deliver the next-generation ICBM capability to the Air Force.”

Northrop Grumman Test Fires Full-Scale Sentinel Stage-Two Solid Rocket Motor

TULLAHOMA, Tenn. – Jan. 16, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully completed a live, static-fire test of a Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) stage-two solid rocket motor at the U.S. Air Force Arnold Engineering...

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Northrop Grumman and Mitsubishi Electric Collaborate to Elevate the Networking of Japan’s Integrated Air & Missile Defense Systems​

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Jan. 16, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation have signed a teaming agreement to collaborate on integrated air and missile defense capabilities for Japan’s ground-based systems.

• Northrop Grumman and Mitsubishi Electric will combine their respective technologies to develop a networking solution integrating Japan’s air and missile defense capabilities to share target information across various defense systems.

• The partnership seeks to contribute to Japanese defense capability in integrated air and missile defense by providing better situational awareness, increased interoperability and effective resource management.

Northrop Grumman and Mitsubishi Electric Collaborate to Elevate the Networking of Japan’s Integrated Air & Missile Defense Systems

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Jan. 16, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) and Mitsubishi Electric Corporation have signed a teaming agreement to collaborate on integrated air and missile defense capabilities for Japan’s ground-based...

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Northrop Grumman’s Mobile Ground-Based Solutions To Get Any Data, Any Time, For Any US Navy, Marine Corps Mission​

The mobile ground station solution advances the JADC2 mission, providing multi-domain data directly to the tactical edge.


AURORA, Colo. – Jan. 17, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) continues to pioneer the latest mobile ground station technology for the frontline with its recently awarded Maritime Targeting Cell – Expeditionary (MTC-X) contract. This program supports the Department of Defense’s strategy for its Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) mission to conduct multi-domain operations by providing critical data to the frontline.


The MTC-X mobile prototype system will:

• Deliver multi-domain data for forward-deployed units and individual warfighters far from established bases;

• Fully integrate data from multiple assets into a single mobile system;

• Reduce sensor-to-shooter timelines and maximize the effectiveness of long-range precision fires; and

• Allow for rapid assembly for quick and agile maneuverability with ground forces.

Northrop Grumman’s Mobile Ground-Based Solutions To Get Any Data, Any Time, For Any US Navy, Marine Corps Mission

AURORA, Colo. – Jan. 17, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) continues to pioneer the latest mobile ground station technology for the frontline with its recently awarded Maritime Targeting Cell – Expeditionary (MTC-X) contract. This...

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Northrop Grumman, AT&T and SEMPRE Demonstrate Next-Generation Flightline Maintenance Operations​

SAN DIEGO – Jan. 30, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), AT&T* and SEMPRE (Secure EMP-Resilient Edge) demonstrated the ability to securely share sensitive, classified military data across geographies at high speeds. The demonstration showcased how flightline maintenance and sustainment can be digitally transformed to reduce time and costs associated with aircraft maintenance and repair.


Northrop Grumman integrated its secure communications solution into a commercially available augmented reality (AR) headset worn by an aircraft maintainer to transfer high volume, classified aircraft data across a SEMPRE 5G private network and AT&T’s 5G commercial network between Whiteman Air Force Base and Northrop Grumman facilities in Palmdale, California, and San Diego.

Experts:

Jenna Paukstis, vice president general manager, networked information solutions, Northrop Grumman: “In a combat environment, the ability to quickly troubleshoot aviation and ground vehicles to get them back in the fight is essential. The ‘Flightline of the Future’ is a next-generation digital solution providing U.S. forces with the capability to securely access information and subject matter experts right on the flightline to repair assets with speed and accuracy, reducing costs and increasing fleet readiness.”

Lance Spencer, client executive vice president, defense, AT&T: “We showcased how our commercial 5G wireless network combined with private networking services can transport and protect both Highly Classified information and Controlled Unclassified Information and provide the U.S. Department of Defense the networking foundation it needs for private mission use cases. The speed, security, reliability and scalability benefits are precisely what the Department seeks in its modernization efforts.”

Dr. Rob Spalding, chief executive officer, SEMPRE: “This demonstration proves advanced capabilities will be available to DoD units for deployed and in garrison requirements. SEMPRE’s deployable infrastructure helps Northrop Grumman deliver hardened connectivity and compute capability to the warfighter, even when the connection to the cloud is no longer available.”

Details:

The “Flightline of the Future” solution demonstrates how aircraft maintainers can securely connect with subject matter experts to perform maintenance and upgrades previously limited to information accessible only in a secure location.

The demonstration showed how combining commercially available AR headsets with commercial and private 5G networks can support defense-specific security solutions, processes, and data and provide for a best-of-breed solutions applicable in any domain.

Northrop Grumman, AT&T and SEMPRE Demonstrate Next-Generation Flightline Maintenance Operations

SAN DIEGO – Jan. 30, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC), AT&T* and SEMPRE (Secure EMP-Resilient Edge) demonstrated the ability to securely share sensitive, classified military data across geographies at high speeds. The demonstration...

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Northrop Grumman’s 20th Cargo Resupply Mission Successfully Launches to the International Space Station for NASA​

The Cygnus spacecraft, named in honor of astronaut Dr. Patricia “Patty” Hilliard Robertson, will deliver critical supplies to astronauts


CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Jan. 30, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) Cygnus cargo delivery spacecraft was successfully launched to the International Space Station today by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida. This is the company’s 20th resupply mission, designated as NG-20.

• Under NASA’s Commercial Resupply Service-2 (CRS-2) contract, Cygnus is carrying more than 8,200 pounds of critical supplies, equipment and science experiments for astronauts on the station.

• After its rendezvous with the International Space Station on February 1, Cygnus will remain attached to the station for up to six months. The spacecraft may perform additional services such as reboosting the station’s orbit to counteract atmospheric drag. Northrop Grumman’s Cygnus provides the only U.S. spacecraft reboost capability for the International Space Station.

• Cygnus uses Northrop Grumman’s vertical integration capabilities, incorporating essential products manufactured by the company like spacecraft structures, propellant tanks, UltraFlex solar arrays and loop heat pipe radiators for thermal control.

Expert:

Cyrus Dhalla, vice president and general manager, tactical space systems, Northrop Grumman: “This mission reflects Cygnus’s flexibility to launch on a variety of launch vehicles, demonstrating our ability to deliver on our commitments to support NASA’s mission. With a decade of experience in cargo and logistics services, Northrop Grumman will continue supporting missions on the International Space Station and future civil and commercial exploration.”

Northrop Grumman’s 20th Cargo Resupply Mission Successfully Launches to the International Space Station for NASA

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Jan. 30, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) Cygnus cargo delivery spacecraft was successfully launched to the International Space Station today by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape...

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Northrop Grumman Passes Preliminary Design Review for Next Generation Interceptor Solution​

Northrop Grumman NGI team completes review one year earlier than original contract date


HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Jan. 31, 2024 – The Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) Next Generation Interceptor team completed its All-Up Round (AUR) Preliminary Design Review (PDR), in partnership with the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) on January 26. Meeting the demands of the mission, the Northrop Grumman Next Generation Interceptor team continues to accelerate the progress on deploying a critical homeland defense capability to the U.S. warfighter.

• The PDR established the technical approach for the full integration of Northrop Grumman’s interceptor design across all its subsystems to move into more advanced phases of development.

• A key requirement of this milestone is demonstrating that the design would maintain full capability while surviving challenging environments.

• The Northrop Grumman team provided on-site interactive demonstrators for review by MDA, including a full-scale solid rocket motor, avionics, and other test hardware. The Next Generation Interceptor team’s strategic partner Raytheon, an RTX business, provided kill vehicle hardware used during environmental testing, sensor hardware, kill vehicle hardware that supports manufacturing fixtures, and test equipment. Also available at the Northrop Grumman PDR was a full-scale digital model of the AUR design in a virtual reality environment.

Experts:

Lisa Brown, vice president, Next Generation Interceptor program, Northrop Grumman: “The Northrop Grumman NGI PDR demonstrated our technology, innovation, readiness, and performance. We put actual hardware in the hands of the MDA, backed by a digital representation. Next Generation Interceptor holds global strategic importance, which is why production and manufacturing readiness continues to play a central role in our Next Generation Interceptor solution.”


Wendy Williams, vice president and general manager, launch and missile defense systems, Northrop Grumman: “We are doing everything we can to accelerate our schedule while maintaining the deep technical rigor for which we are known. Northrop Grumman is committed to delivering this crucial capability into the hands of our warfighters as soon as possible, while meeting the key mission requirements.”


Jennifer Gauthier, deputy president, Air & Space Defense Systems for Raytheon: “Our team is building on decades of experience designing and delivering proven exo-atmospheric interceptors. As a part of this review, our high-fidelity simulations demonstrated how Next Generation Interceptor’s multiple kill vehicles will perform in the extreme conditions of space, defeating an increasingly advanced set of missile threats.”

Details:

The Northrop Grumman NGI solution will provide enhanced technical capabilities that would be used to defend the U.S. homeland from Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) threats as part of the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) system. The team has built and tested key components of our Next Generation Interceptor solution, ahead of customer timelines.


The Northrop Grumman team, along with Raytheon, is implementing advanced digital engineering techniques to reduce the time needed to advance the design through phases of maturity and reach operational capability as quickly as possible.


Following the successful completion of PDR, Northrop Grumman will continue maturing its NGI design on the path to its Critical Design Review, which is expected to be completed ahead of schedule. The first operational Next Generation Interceptor is forecast to be deployed as early as 2027.

Northrop Grumman Passes Preliminary Design Review for Next Generation Interceptor Solution

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Jan. 31, 2024 – The Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) Next Generation Interceptor team completed its All-Up Round (AUR) Preliminary Design Review (PDR), in partnership with the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) on January 26. Meeting...

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Northrop Grumman Completes First Production Delivery for the US Army's Integrated Battle Command System​

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Feb. 1, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) delivered the first production Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) major end item, an Integrated Collaborative Environment (ICE), to the U.S. Army on December 19, 2023.


Working at an accelerated pace, the Northrop Grumman team will deliver additional major end items in early 2024 to support the Army’s aggressive modernization schedule. As part of the Low-Rate Initial Production award, Northrop Grumman is producing IBCS equipment and providing product engineering and logistics support.

• The ICE is a modular, electromagnetic interference-protected shelter hosting battle management workstations which enable warfighters to perform air and missile defense planning and defensive operations.

• Upcoming major end item deliveries will include the Engagement Operation Centers and Integrated Fire Control Network relays.

Expert:

Rebecca Torzone, vice president and general manager, combat systems and mission readiness, Northrop Grumman: “Northrop Grumman is working at an accelerated delivery schedule because the U.S. Army and its allies understand the power of IBCS and how it revolutionizes the warfighter’s approach to the battlespace. Providing IBCS equipment for testing and fielding brings more accurate decision making, improved situational awareness and a shield of security to the warfighter.”


Details on IBCS:

IBCS is the cornerstone of the Army’s air and missile defense modernization strategy, allowing forces to maintain overmatch while reducing mission risk. It has the ability to rapidly network any sensor, including fielded and developmental radars, to any shooter and deliver decision-quality fire control data across joint networks as shown in multiple successful tests and demonstrations.


In 2023, IBCS was approved for full rate production and achieved initial operational capability, enabling the Army to set a fielding schedule for operational air defense units.


IBCS is a revolutionary command and control system unifying current and future assets in the battlespace, regardless of source, service or domain. Through its modular, open and scalable architecture, IBCS gives warfighters capabilities not previously available by fusing sensor data for a single actionable picture of the full battlespace, enabling rapid, informed decisions to optimize shooters. This capability gives warfighters more time to make decisions on how best to defeat threats.


IBCS is the centerpiece of the U.S. Army’s modernization strategy for air and missile defense and is currently being fielded in Poland. IBCS is a foundational element for the multi-domain, multi-national future.

Northrop Grumman Completes First Production Delivery for the US Army's Integrated Battle Command System

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. – Feb. 1, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) delivered the first production Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) major end item, an Integrated Collaborative Environment (ICE), to the U.S. Army on December 19,...

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Cool Breakthroughs: Cryocoolers for All Climates​

For decades, Northrop Grumman has been making highly dependable cooling systems known as cryocoolers for spacecraft. A cryocooler is essentially a specialized refrigerator deployed on satellites and space telescopes to maintain extremely low temperatures for onboard sensors. This is crucial for capturing high-resolution images of Earth or outer space, like the ones captured by the James Webb Space Telescope. Reliability is key because the cryocoolers are part of a symbiotic relationship: If the cryocooler malfunctions, then sensors won’t function. They need each other.


“Our cryocoolers are incredibly reliable -- they’re performing the same at the end of their 20-year mission as they did on day one. We’ve observed absolutely no degradation in performance over their mission life,” said Owen Cupp, general manager of the Cryocooler operating unit at Northrop Grumman.


While consistent performance over such a long time is noteworthy, not every mission requires a cryocooler to last for 20 years. However, no matter the length of the mission or budget, this technology needs to be reliable because in space, fixing isn’t an option.


Northrop Grumman is developing a more cost-effective, reliable class of cryocoolers based on proven designs used in critical national defense, climate, weather and astronomy missions. These new cryocoolers have a simpler design, can be produced more quickly and in larger quantities, and are suitable for less demanding missions.

Northrop Grumman is developing a more cost-effective, reliable class of cryocoolers based on proven designs used in critical national defense, climate, weather and astronomy missions. (Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman)

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The Climate of Opportunity

Engineers at the University of Colorado at Boulder (CU Boulder) were building a special sensor for the Climate Absolute Radiance and Refractivity Observatory (CLARREO) Pathfinder Mission, which is slated to launch at the end of this decade. Like most space-based missions, the sensor requires a highly reliable cryocooler. However, the mission is only for two years, and the university has a tight budget.


“We knew Northrop Grumman had a strong heritage with cryocoolers, and with their new class of cryocoolers, we can have the capability and assurance we needed within our price point,” said Greg Ucker, project manager for the Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics at the CU Boulder.


Once launched, CLARREO Pathfinder (CPF) will help scientists better understand how our planet’s climate is changing by precisely measuring sunlight that bounces off the Earth. These measurements will be five to 10 times more precise than what current sensors can achieve. CPF will also be able to transfer its high-accuracy data to other Earth-viewing sensors. With Northrop Grumman’s cryocooler technology maintaining optimal temperatures for CLARREO Pathfinder, advances in climate sensing can be unlocked.


Unlocking More Potential

Northrop Grumman’s engineers are exploring other potential applications for this new class of cryocoolers, including its use in quantum computing.


“Customers are going to have a greater idea on how to use the technology in a broader sense and we may be surprised at what we see,” said Dale Durand, a Northrop Grumman cryocooler engineer. “This new line of cryocoolers opens possibilities of different missions, applications and customers.”


Northrop Grumman’s leadership in the cryocooler industry serves as a benchmark in the field. To date, the company has delivered more than 50 space flight cryocoolers and has accumulated more than 300 years of failure-free, combined on-orbit operations. With a new affordable line of cryocoolers, the company will continue to push new limits, regardless of climate or budget.

Cool Breakthroughs: Cryocoolers for All Climates

For decades, Northrop Grumman has been making highly dependable cooling systems known as cryocoolers for spacecraft. A cryocooler is essentially a specialized refrigerator deployed on satellites and space telescopes to maintain extremely low temperatures...

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Northrop Grumman’s LITENING Targeting Pod Fleet Upgrading to Large Aperture by US Air Force​

New sensors and software deliver improved range, resolution

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – Feb. 13, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) LITENING Large Aperture (LA) targeting pod, which incorporates significant enhancements in electro-optical/infrared sensing and processing capabilities, has been tapped by the U.S. Air Force for use across existing LITENING inventory.

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• Digital, high-definition daylight and infrared sensors in multiple wavelengths increase the resolution of the pod, allowing imaging from greater stand-off ranges.

• LITENING LA features faster video processing, greater image stabilization, enhanced pod command and control functions, and continuous roll for uninterrupted imaging during maneuvers

• Enhanced air and ground targeting modes offer greater accuracy and tracking under challenging conditions.

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Expert:

James Conroy, vice president, electronic warfare and targeting, Northrop Grumman: “Just as the first LITENING targeting pod transformed close air support more than 20 years ago, LA’s passive targeting capabilities have the potential to change the way pilots approach combat in high-intensity conflicts. We are widening the aperture on how electro-optical/infrared targeting can contribute to mission success, with a more advanced and powerful pod.”

Northrop Grumman’s LITENING Targeting Pod Fleet Upgrading to Large Aperture by US Air Force

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – Feb. 13, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation’s (NYSE: NOC) LITENING Large Aperture (LA) targeting pod, which incorporates significant enhancements in electro-optical/infrared sensing and processing capabilities, has been tapped by...

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Northrop Grumman Advances Sentinel Design Phase With Key Tests​

ROY, Utah – Feb. 20, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully completed tests of several crucial elements of the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), marking significant progress for the program in its engineering, manufacturing and development phase.


Forward and aft sections of a Sentinel ICBM missile were evaluated through a rigorous test campaign at the company’s Strategic Missile Test and Production Complex in Promontory, Utah. The tests lower risk for the program with important data about the missile’s inflight structural dynamics. Data from the tests help engineering teams mature models, lower risk and ensure flight success.


The shroud fly-off and missile modal tests were part of the company’s engineering, manufacturing, and development (EMD), or design, contract for Sentinel. Northrop Grumman is closely partnered with the Air Force as the EMD phase progresses and key milestones are achieved.

Expert:

Sarah Willoughby, vice president and program manager, Sentinel, Northrop Grumman: “Working with the Air Force and our team of suppliers, we put key elements of the missile’s hardware to the test to mature our design and lower risk. The shroud fly-off test proved our modeling predictions are solid, while the missile stack test demonstrated inflight missile performance, helping validate assumptions and fine-tune models. These successes give us confidence as we continue progressing on the path to deliver a safe, secure and reliable capability to the nation.”


Details on Program:

The Sentinel program is a modernization of the nation’s ground-based leg of the strategic triad and is planned to be viable through 2075.


Northrop Grumman leads a nationwide team for Sentinel’s EMD contract. The team is responsible for designing the most technologically advanced portion of America’s ground-based strategic deterrent and is closely partnered with the Air Force to continue to mature the design while reducing risk as key EMD milestones are achieved.

Northrop Grumman Advances Sentinel Design Phase With Key Tests

ROY, Utah – Feb. 20, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully completed tests of several crucial elements of the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), marking significant progress for the program in its engineering,...

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Northrop Grumman Edge Processing Software Gives Warfighters a Decisive Advantage​

SAN DIEGO – Feb. 21, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully demonstrated new software that can receive, display and share critical situational awareness data using handheld devices without a connection to a cloud server. This next-generation technology delivers resilient information to protect our warfighters in support of Joint All-Domain Command and Control.

• Current systems require data to be relayed to and from a cloud server outside of the battlespace, which leaves units in the field vulnerable if the connection is lost; with combat edge processing software, devices in the field can take over and continue working within seconds to securely distribute critical information needed for mission success.

• The combat edge software is highly adaptable, providing a decisive advantage in the most complex environments.

• The software’s modular design is rapidly upgradable, affordable and easily integrates with many current proprietary or commercial hardware solutions.

Expert:

Kevin Berkowitz, vice president, secure processing and networks, Northrop Grumman: “Edge processing is a paradigm shift away from traditional cloud computing models, and this software solution demonstrates its ability to deliver decision superiority at mission speed. Shifting processing to the battlespace aims to eliminate the single point of failure in legacy processes, enabling the warfighter to make clearer observations, faster decisions and smarter actions.”


Details:

In the demonstration, Link-16 data was successfully tracked on low size, weight and power (SWaP) devices without connecting to a cloud server utilizing Northrop Grumman’s new software. This demonstration is an important step in laying the foundation for future edge computing technologies, including battlespace artificial intelligence and machine learning tools.

Northrop Grumman Edge Processing Software Gives Warfighters a Decisive Advantage

SAN DIEGO – Feb. 21, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) successfully demonstrated new software that can receive, display and share critical situational awareness data using handheld devices without a connection to a cloud server. This...

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Northrop Grumman Completes First BOLE Solid Rocket Motor Segment for NASA’s Space Launch System​

PROMONTORY, Utah – Feb. 26, 2024 – (PHOTO RELEASE) Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) completed the first Booster Obsolescence and Life Extension (BOLE) motor segment for the next-generation Space Launch System (SLS) solid rocket booster. BOLE adds nearly five metric tons of payload capacity for SLS Block 2 Moon and Mars missions above the enhancements already in work for the SLS Block 1B configuration slated to fly on Artemis IV. The new solid rocket boosters will be used on Block 2 beginning with Artemis IX when all the recovered and refurbished shuttle-era steel cases have been expended.


Building on the foundation of the largest and most powerful solid rocket boosters ever flown, Northrop Grumman’s BOLE booster incorporates cutting-edge carbon fiber technology and a weight-saving composite case. Combined with other upgrades, it generates 11% more total impulse than the current five-segment solid rocket boosters. The first BOLE demonstration test is scheduled for this year, featuring a full-scale static test with all five segments integrated and horizontally fired in a test bay.

Northrop Grumman Completes First BOLE Solid Rocket Motor Segment for NASA’s Space Launch System

PROMONTORY, Utah – Feb. 26, 2024 – (PHOTO RELEASE) Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) completed the first Booster Obsolescence and Life Extension (BOLE) motor segment for the next-generation Space Launch System (SLS) solid rocket booster. BOLE adds...

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Northrop Grumman Next Generation Interceptor Solid Rocket Motor Delivered for First Static Test Fire​

TULLAHOMA, Tenn. – March 7, 2024 – (PHOTO RELEASE) Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) delivered its Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) Stage Three solid rocket motor (SRM) to Arnold Air Force Base ahead of schedule for a full static fire test in early 2024. The SRMs will help power the NGI booster, and data from the static test will help anchor NGI’s solid rocket motors ballistic predictions, informing other SRM designs before entering qualification testing.


Northrop Grumman has rapidly moved beyond designs to hardware, motors and systems for its NGI solution to lower the risk for the Missile Defense Agency. The company will complete additional full-scale static test firings for each of its NGI SRMs in 2024 to provide comprehensive data to support its All-up Round design expected later this year.

Northrop Grumman Next Generation Interceptor Solid Rocket Motor Delivered for First Static Test Fire

TULLAHOMA, Tenn. – March 7, 2024 – (PHOTO RELEASE) Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) delivered its Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) Stage Three solid rocket motor (SRM) to Arnold Air Force Base ahead of schedule for a full static fire test in...

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Northrop Grumman Partners to Advance Deep Sensing for the US Army​

AZUSA, Calif. – March 7, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is partnering with Palantir USG, Inc. on the newly awarded Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node (TITAN) ground system for the U.S. Army. The program supports one of the Army’s key modernization imperatives by using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to enhance the automation of target recognition and geolocation and integrate data from multiple sensors to reduce sensor-to-shooter timelines.


Northrop Grumman will partner to:

• Lead design maturation of the TITAN Advanced and Basic vehicle shelters leveraging its capabilities in complex, forward-deployed ground systems.
• Ensure production readiness to deliver 10 initial TITAN prototypes with capability to scale-up to program needs.
• Integrate, test and deploy TITAN systems to the Army, providing actionable targeting information for enhanced mission command and long-range precision fires.

https://news.northropgrumman.com/news/releases/northrop-grumman-partners-to-advance-deep-sensing-for-the-us-arm

 

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Northrop Grumman Digital Radar Warning Receiver Enters Production​

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – March 11, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has been awarded a multi-year contract to produce initial production units of the AN/APR-39E(V)2 radar warning receivers for the U.S. Army.


Northrop Grumman’s AN/APR-39E(V)2 is a fully digital radar warning receiver with the instantaneous bandwidth and frequency coverage to protect against the most advanced radar threats.

• Clutter reduction and threat geolocation capabilities provide a significant advance in survivability and the ability to turn threats into targets.
• Open architecture design enables growth to future electronic warfare capabilities.

Expert:

James Conroy, vice president, navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman: “The APR-39E(V)2 is a sophisticated, more agile radar warning receiver that outpaces emerging threats. It provides a generational leap in capability over previous radar warning systems.”


Details on AN/APR-39E(V)2:

Northrop Grumman has been awarded a five-year contract for production of the AN/APR-39E(V)2. The system is a significant advance in the evolution of the widely installed AN/APR-39 radar warning receiver family. The system’s smart antenna detects threats over a wide range of the spectrum, including millimeter wave frequencies, to give warfighters a broader view of potential threats.


Another advantage of the AN/APR-39E(V)2 is its readiness to be the survivability suite controller in multi-domain, large-scale combat operations. The system is capable of sharing threat data, enhancing survivability and mission effectiveness.


Shared across a family of electronic warfare systems, this pioneering technology can scale to virtually any platform or mission, including current fleet and future platforms. Northrop Grumman’s sensors and electronic warfare systems give warfighters superiority across the spectrum and allow for faster, more informed decisions.

Northrop Grumman Digital Radar Warning Receiver Enters Production

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. – March 11, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has been awarded a multi-year contract to produce initial production units of the AN/APR-39E(V)2 radar warning receivers for the U.S. Army. Northrop Grumman’s...

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Northrop Grumman and Diehl Defence to Collaborate on Integrated Air and Missile Defense Capabilities​

BERLIN – March 12, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) and Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizing their commitment to work together to support innovative layered air and missile defense capabilities for Germany.


Northrop Grumman’s expertise in IAMD and control capabilities, such as the U.S. Army’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), complements Diehl’s state-of-the-art ground based air and missile defense systems, such as IRIS-T SLM, by enabling integration and interoperability with allied systems.


The MOU facilitates collaboration by allowing the companies to use their expertise to explore advanced technologies that would support the seamless integration of Germany’s air and missile defense systems. The memorandum also addresses the critical need for NATO and European allies to modernize IAMD capabilities.


Experts:

Rebecca Torzone, vice president and general manager, global battle management and readiness, Northrop Grumman: “Today marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to advancing defense capabilities together with German industry. By joining forces with Diehl Defence, we embark on a collaborative journey to shape the future of integrated air and missile defense.”


Torsten Cook, senior vice president, ground based air defense business unit, Diehl Defence: “We are excited about this partnership which offers new options to our IRIS-T SLM customers. For example, utilizing several GBAD systems such as IRIS-T SLM and Patriot in parallel, improves interoperability and thus increases the combat value of the systems used.”

Northrop Grumman and Diehl Defence to Collaborate on Integrated Air and Missile Defense Capabilities

BERLIN – March 12, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) and Diehl Defence GmbH & Co. KG signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) formalizing their commitment to work together to support innovative layered air and missile defense capabilities...

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Northrop Grumman Expanding Capacity to Meet Global Security Demands​

ROCKET CENTER, W.Va. – March 25, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is expanding the Naval Industrial Reserve Ordnance Plant at the Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) in West Virginia. The company was recently awarded a $178 million contract from Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) to support the expansion. The investment will help to expand the site’s capacity through the construction of a new modular energetics facility.

• The investment will increase rocket motor energetics and inert processing and builds on Northrop Grumman’s proven performance to quickly scale using advanced manufacturing techniques and digital transformation.

• This state-of-the-art facility will use advanced manufacturing processes to configure production for multiple products and consolidate operations to minimize travel, movement of materials and overall downtime.

• The expansion will add to Northrop Grumman’s own investment in rocket motors and increase resiliency by doubling the capacity of the defense supply chain and ensure production capacity to meet the growing demand of solid rocket motors and warheads on time and at affordable scale.

Frank DeMauro, sector vice president and general manager, weapon systems, Northrop Grumman: “The Navy’s decision to entrust Northrop Grumman with expansion operations at ABL in support of critical missile components such as rocket motors, warheads and fuzes, will bolster critical national security infrastructure. The investments we’re making, and our mature production capabilities, will allow us to double our energetics capacity by fall of 2026, meeting recent customer demand and maintaining our signature commitment to quality.”


U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, West Virginia: “Expanding our capacity to produce critical munitions and their components, such as solid rocket motors and energetic materials, is critical to ensuring that our men and women in uniform have the tools they need to deter aggression and win. The Allegany Ballistics Laboratory is a critical piece of our defense industrial base, and I’m proud that such important components of our nation’s advanced weapons are built right here at home in West Virginia. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this expansion project on U.S. national security and the state of West Virginia.”


U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin, West Virginia: “This announcement is continued evidence of ABL’s critical importance in advancing our national security capabilities. ABL is one of only two sites in the entire country that can produce rocket motor energetics and the only one that is a public-private partnership. This taxpayer-owned facility is building the missiles that keep our forces safe.”

Northrop Grumman Expanding Capacity to Meet Global Security Demands

ROCKET CENTER, W.Va. – March 25, 2024 – Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) is expanding the Naval Industrial Reserve Ordnance Plant at the Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) in West Virginia. The company was recently awarded a $178...

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