Northrop Grumman has completed acceptance testing of the fist production model of the new integrated sensor suite that will enhance the imaging capability for the Air Force’s RQ-4A Global Hawk fleet. It is ready to begin installing the new package, which expands on capabilities that were first developed and used in the U-2 program. Northrop says the new imaging modes will produce unparalleled imagery in the most inclement conditions.
The Air Force on March 12 awarded contract modifications worth a combined $2.4 billion to Boeing to procure an undisclosed number of E-7 Wedgetail as part of the program's engineering and manufacturing development phase and continue work on the airborne battle management aircraft’s radar.