Northrop Grumman Australia has recently inked a significant contract with L3Harris Corporation focusing on the operation and MRO of command-and-control systems on Australia’s MQ-4C Triton uncrewed aircraft fleet ahead of delivery to the RAAF.
Northrop Grumman Australia, a key player in the aerospace and defense sector, has recently inked a significant contract with L3Harris Corporation. The deal focuses on the operation and maintenance of command-and-control systems on Australia’s MQ-4C Triton uncrewed aircraft fleet, a crucial step ahead of the platform’s delivery to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Northrop Grumman achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the first flight of Australia’s MQ-4C Triton uncrewed aircraft in November 2023. The company is on track to deliver Australia’s first Triton in 2024, with all four Australian Tritons under contract progressing smoothly through their production schedules.
As the prime systems integrator for Triton, Northrop Grumman has been collaborating with various suppliers to ensure the integration and maintenance of vital systems and technologies on the platform. This collaborative effort is geared towards providing the necessary capabilities required by the RAAF. The Interim Sustainment Support Contract specifically covers the maintenance of Triton’s Wideband Command, Control, and Communications (C3) Subsystem, a crucial component developed by L3Harris Corporation.
Starting in April 2024, L3Harris Corporation will deploy seven communications technicians and field service representatives to work closely with the Northrop Grumman team. This partnership underscores the commitment of both companies to deliver next-generation technology solutions that enhance Australia’s national security.Christine Zeitz, chief executive and general manager for Australia & New Zealand, Northrop Grumman said, “L3Harris will support Triton’s wideband C3 functionality as we work collectively to deliver next-generation technology solutions that will help keep Australia safe.”
The MQ-4C Triton, designed for both the U.S. Navy and the RAAF, is a versatile platform that supports various missions such as maritime patrol, signals intelligence, search and rescue, and communications relay. These aircraft play a crucial role in providing persistent surveillance, aiding in predicting adversary behavior, and facilitating better planning for joint military responses.
Andrew Rushbrook, managing director, L3Harris Communications Australia Pty Ltd, and regional vice president, L3Harris said, “L3Harris is delighted to be working with Northrop Grumman Australia to deliver this critical capability to the Commonwealth. Our wideband C3 solution for Australia’s MQ-4C Triton will help establish a world-class sovereign capability.”
To support the progressive delivery of Triton systems into Australia, Northrop Grumman is establishing a dynamic support environment. This includes setting up ground stations at RAAF Edinburgh, South Australia, and facilitating air vehicles into RAAF Tindal, Northern Territory. Additionally, the company is focused on building a highly qualified Australian workforce across these locations to ensure efficient operations and support for Triton activities.
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Australia’s involvement in the Triton cooperative program underscores the collaborative efforts between U.S. and Australian defense forces, aiming to share valuable data collected by their respective Triton aircraft. Overall, Northrop Grumman’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of aerospace and defense technology is evident in its commitment to solving complex challenges and delivering innovative solutions that safeguard national security.
