Northrop Grumman, a leading global aerospace and defense technology company, has been recognized with the Business Expansion and Research and Development awards in the 2024 Airforce Technology Excellence Awards for its strategic initiatives in hypersonic propulsion and hybrid electric propulsion systems. 

The Airforce Technology Excellence Awards celebrate the greatest achievements and innovations in the Defense industry, with a special focus on the Airforce. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies that are driving change in the industry. 

Northrop Grumman won the Business Expansion award for its strategic establishment of the Hypersonics Capability Center, which enhances its manufacturing capacity for advanced propulsion systems and supports the U.S. Air Force’s hypersonic missile development. The company received the Research and Development award for its innovative advancements in hybrid electric propulsion and autonomous systems, exemplified by projects like the XRQ-73 SHEPARD vehicle and the ANCILLARY program, which push the boundaries of uncrewed aerial vehicle technology. 

Business expansion: Leading the charge in hypersonic propulsion 

Hypersonic Propulsion Systems Manufacturing Facility
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Credit: Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman’s commitment to expanding its business capabilities is exemplified by the establishment of the Hypersonics Capability Center (HCC) in Elkton, Maryland. This state-of-the-art facility is the first in the United States designed specifically for large-scale manufacturing of air-breathing propulsion systems, such as ramjet and scramjet engines. By investing in this cutting-edge infrastructure, Northrop Grumman is addressing the U.S. Department of Defense’s growing demand for long-range, rapid-response weapons, directly supporting the U.S. Air Force’s Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile development. 

The HCC not only enhances Northrop Grumman’s manufacturing capacity but also consolidates engine production processes, thereby reducing costs and increasing efficiency. This strategic expansion supports the U.S. Air Force’s objectives and positions Northrop Grumman as a leader in advanced weapons manufacturing. The facility leverages state-of-the-art metal manufacturing processes and precision non-destructive test technologies to rapidly produce complex assemblies with unmatched quality. This capability is crucial for meeting the stringent performance requirements of hypersonic systems. 

R&D: Innovating hybrid propulsion and autonomous systems 

XRQ-73 SHEPARD Hybrid Electric Uncrewed Aircraft System (UAS) X-Plane
Credit: Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman’s dedication to research and development is evident in its groundbreaking work on hybrid electric propulsion and autonomous systems. The company’s XRQ-73 SHEPARD unmanned aerial vehicle, developed in collaboration with Scaled Composites, represents a significant advancement in hybrid electric propulsion technology. This uncrewed air system, designed for DARPA, leverages hybrid electric architecture to create a mission-focused aircraft with enhanced propulsion capabilities. The XRQ-73 SHEPARD is part of DARPA’s “X-prime” program, which aims to quickly mature new mission-focused aircraft designs with innovative propulsion architectures. 

Additionally, Northrop Grumman’s involvement in DARPA’s ANCILLARY program highlights its expertise in autonomous vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) systems. The program aims to develop an X-plane capable of long-endurance, infrastructure-less operations, providing next-generation intelligence gathering solutions. Northrop Grumman is leveraging its extensive experience in VTOL systems to advance the ANCILLARY air vehicle design, which will enable expeditionary deployments and locally commanded responsive intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting (ISR/T) with unique payload capabilities. 

DARPA’s ANCILLARY autonomous VTOL uncrewed aircraft system
Credit: Northrop Grumman

Northrop Grumman’s collaboration with Shield AI on the Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (FTUAS) competition further underscores its commitment to delivering cutting-edge unmanned aircraft systems for the U.S. Army, with potential applications for the Airforce. The enhanced V-BAT system, developed in partnership with Shield AI, embodies more than 30 years of experience in designing and sustaining advanced unmanned aircraft systems. This innovative platform offers increased power, reduced logistics, and the capacity to carry a range of interchangeable payloads, making it a versatile solution for modern military operations. 

Future Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (FTUAS) program
Credit: Northrop Grumman

Company Profile 

Headquartered in Virginia, US, Northrop Grumman develops and provides solutions for unmanned systems, aircraft, autonomous systems, cybersecurity, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR). The company manufactures acoustic sensors for aircraft carriers and submarines, spacecraft systems, mission-critical computer systems, and wireless communications infrastructure. Its offerings encompass ground systems, satellites, radar and sensors, cyber security, and electronic warfare. It also provides logistics and modernization services. Northrop Grumman’s solutions find applications in the aerospace, defense, electronics, and information systems sectors. The company serves foreign, state, and local governments and commercial customers, including the US Navy, Air Force, government agencies, and international clients across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. 

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