Northrop Grumman says it plans to develop fourth-generation enhancements for its LITENING AT precision targeting and sensor system. Improvements in development include a more advanced forward-looking infrared laser and new two-way data links for better air-to-ground communication. The current LITENING earlier this year surpassed 250,000 combat hours. And, the first B-52 crew became qualified in July with the system. Northrop plans to begin flight-testing the new FLIR next year.
The Department of the Air Force is consolidating more than 50 programs supporting its efforts to create a vast battle network into a single $4.5 billion contract vehicle to streamline software and technology integration.
