Northrop Grumman Selected to Provide Communications Software for Navy's MH-60 Helicopters

Strategic Insights -

Northrop Grumman Corporation has been chosen by Lockheed Martin to supply communications software for the U.S. Navy's MH-60R and MH-60S multimission helicopters. The award is valued at $3.8 million and will be used to design, develop, test, and maintain the software over a two-year period. The software will enable the aircraft to digitally communicate with other tactical systems during operations, using the Link 16 tactical data-link network.

Key Takeaways:

  • Northrop Grumman's network middleware will bridge the aircraft communications system and Link 16, enabling digital communication with other tactical systems.
  • The software will be designed, developed, tested, and potentially maintained under a $3.8 million, two-year contract.
  • The award builds on Northrop Grumman's previous achievements in developing common software for Link 16 platform integration.
  • The company's middleware application will isolate the MH-60's software from the details of the Link 16 communications, reducing software development costs and enhancing interoperable communications with other platforms.
  • Northrop Grumman has developed comparable software for other platforms, including the B-2 stealth bomber.
  • Lockheed Martin will integrate the software at its facilities in Owego, New York.

Statistics:

  • The contract value is $3.8 million.
  • The contract duration is two years.
  • Northrop Grumman will design, develop, test, and potentially maintain the software.
  • The company will use its facilities in San Diego to develop the software and integrate it at Lockheed Martin's facilities in Owego, New York.

Sources:

  • Northrop Grumman Corp.
  • COMTEX (http://www.comtexnews.com)
  • Lockheed Martin Corporation
  • U.S. Navy