Feb 24 2015
Northrop Grumman Corporation will highlight key capabilities and programmes at the Australian International Air Show including unmanned aircraft systems; intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR); radars and sensor systems; and infrared countermeasures.
"The Australian International Air Show provides an excellent opportunity to showcase our comprehensive capabilities," said Ian Irving, chief executive, Northrop Grumman Australia. "Systems such as Triton bring an enormous opportunity for industry and the government to work together for military, humanitarian, disaster relief and a range of other missions."
To coincide with the air show, the company is launching FutureForce, a story site that showcases the rich history between Australia and the United States, and provides a comprehensive look at the key capabilities that support the future Australian Defence Force.
"We are committed to supporting current and future Australian Defence Force capabilities and to helping the Royal Australian Air Force realise its vision for a fully integrated fifth-generation force," Said Mary Petryszyn, vice president, international, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems.
Northrop Grumman's surveillance capabilities will be highlighted with full-scale models of the MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft system (UAS) and MQ-8C Fire Scout unmanned helicopter – displayed in the heart of the air show grounds.
In March 2014, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott announced his government's intent to purchase the Triton UAS for high-altitude, long-endurance surveillance missions. Its unique sensor suite provides a continuous on-station presence in a 360-degree field of view for some of the most demanding surveillance missions. Triton can fly missions for 24 hours at altitudes of more than 55,000 feet to cover vast areas of ocean and coastal regions.
Fire Scout is a fully autonomous, single-engine unmanned helicopter that offers versatile ISR capabilities from any air-capable ship. The system is designed to accommodate a variety of sensor payloads to provide unprecedented situational awareness and precision targeting support. Deployed on U.S. Navy frigates and the newest littoral combat ship, Fire Scout provides additional mission flexibility to maritime and ground commanders.
The Australian International Air Show takes place at Avalon Airport, Geelong, Australia, Feb. 24-March 1. Northrop Grumman's exhibit in the U.S. pavilion is at 3F11 in Hall 3 and the company's business centre is located on the flight line at N13.