Northrop Grumman has been awarded the second phase of a multi-year contract to modernize the B-2 stealth bomber defensive management system (DMS). Called Technology Development (TD) Phase 2, it is expected to run for about three years.
"TD Phase 2 is the cornerstone of a rapid acquisition initiative that Northrop Grumman and the government developed to reduce B-2 DMS modernization costs and accelerate the availability of the latest technologies for the aircraft," says Lauren Stevens, Northrop's director for the B-2 DMS modernization integrated product team. "Instead of relying on new hardware and software development, our initiative takes advantage of mature, proven technologies. It minimizes nonrecurring costs, and reduces the time and technology risks associated with fielding new capabilities."
 |
|---|
USAF |
The DMS modernization package includes a new graphics processor and new antennas.
Northrop says the TD Phase 2 of the DMS modernization programme will include continued development and testing of the new hardware and software. The company also has to evaluate and select new DMS antennas.
In addition, Northrop Grumman has to prepare for the next stage of DMS modernization, which is engineering, manufacturing and development (EMD). EMD is expected to begin in late 2014.
Source: Flight International
