Northrop Receives B-2 Antenna Contract

Northrop Grumman Corp. is developing a new satellite-based antenna system for the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. The project is funded by a $372 million contract from the U.S. Air Force to improve the communications of the aircraft. Some of the work will be done in Northrop’s facility in Palmdale. Under the terms of the contract, Northrop Grumman will design and develop the preliminary advanced electronically scanned array antenna system, demonstrate technology readiness and prove its functionality using hardware prototypes. The company’s work on the antenna will take advantage of expertise in B-2 advancement but also in satellite communications, said Dave Mazur, vice president of long range strike and B-2 program manager. This important enhancement will ensure that the B-2 retains its strategic communications capabilities well into the future,” Mazur said. Mark R. Madler