Northrop Grumman has successfully tested its new LN-120G stellar navigation system on USAF’s RC-135 Rivet Joint, electronics intelligence aircraft. The Air Force has contracted for 30 of these new systems, which should enable the RC-135 mission crews to accurately pinpoint hostile targets and transmit the data to E-8 Joint STARS ground radar aircraft, and ultimately, directly to fighter aircraft. Northrop expects to deliver the first units this year.
In an effort to improve connectivity aboard Air Force tanker and mobility aircraft, the Pentagon’s commercial technology innovation unit wants a system to install new applications on aircraft, such as a moving map display that helps aircrew see through the fog of war.
