Northrop Grumman,
El Segundo CA: Northrop Grumman has been selected by the U.S. Air Force to develop critical technologies for future aircraft that could move forces rapidly and safely within combat zones.
The Air Force Research Laboratory's (AFRL) Air Vehicles Directorate has awarded a contract to Northrop Grumman's Integrated Systems sector for the Integrated Propulsion, Lift and Control (IPLC) program.
To meet the challenges facing the delivery, maneuver and sustainment of U.S. combat forces, the military services are analyzing alternatives to ensure force readiness well beyond the next decade. The Air Force is researching the feasibility of a mobility aircraft that could fly at high subsonic speeds and at the low speeds necessary to take off and land in austere areas without a dedicated landing strip. Such an aircraft would also incorporate features to improve its survivability against hostile actions.
“Air mobility is an emerging capability focus at Northrop Grumman,” said Charlie Guthrie, director of advanced capabilities development for Integrated Systems' Western region. “We are maturing technologies that will serve as the foundation for a survivable, integrated family of systems to meet customer demands for theater mobility, rapid movement of special operations forces and persistent attack.”
Northrop Grumman's IPLC effort will include contributions from NASA's Langley Research Center, Hampton, Va.; General Electric Aircraft Engines, Evendale, Ohio; and the Georgia Tech Research Institute, Atlanta. The $1.43 million effort is scheduled to conclude in September 2007.
With a “system-of-systems” approach, Northrop Grumman's Advanced Capabilities Development group brings world-class capabilities in system design, air vehicle design, flight controls, vehicle management systems, network-enabling technologies and survivability. The group also leverages other capabilities from across Northrop Grumman to offer innovative future solutions that meet emerging customer needs.
