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.
Air Force depots are not typically meant for quick repair jobs, but during Operation Epic Fury, the service moved some of its stateside heavy maintenance capability forward to fix battle-damaged aircraft closer to the fight.
