Northrop Grumman is looking to build on its recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with BAE Systems to work on missile defence solutions and is in talks with other European companies.

The deal with BAE follows a framework MoU signed by the UK and USA in June to develop bilateral missile defence co-operation. The companies are focus- ing on how to link the US Missile Defence Agency's Joint National Integration Centre (JNIC), for which Northrop Grumman is prime contractor, and the UK's new joint government/industry Missile Defence Centre (MDC).

The intent is to examine through modelling, simulation and war gaming how national and international systems can be integrated into a cohesive defence system. This includes the role of the RAF Fylingdales ballistic missile early warning system in the UK and the development role of missile systems, says Northrop Grumman Mission Systems missile defence division general manager Jerry Agee.

Northrop Grumman's and BAE's immediate focus is defining a concept to allow the JNIC and MDC centres to provide the countries with a missile defence co-operation framework.

Source: Flight International