Northrop wins $173M contract for advanced targeting system

Northrop Grumman has won a five-year, $173 million performance-based logistics contract with the Defense Department to support the new LITENING advanced targeting system.

The LITENING system allows aircrews to identify and engage targets under a range of battlefield conditions with its infrared device, laser imaging sensors, image processing and digital video output.

Under the contract, Northrop Grumman will provide logistics support, technical support to the field, aircrew and maintenance training, depot repairs and other associated services, the company said in a release.

The contract will support the Air Combat Command, Air Force Reserves, Air National Guard, Marine Corps and Marine Corps Reserves, as well as the Italian and Spanish navies, the company said.

"This award continues our 15-year partnership with the Department of Defense in supporting the warfighters who rely on the LITENING system," said Jim Mocarski, vice president of airborne tactical sensors at Northrop Grumman Electronic Systems.

"Through this partnership, LITENING has achieved greater than 97 percent availability and more than 650,000 combat flight hours, so warfighters know it will be ready for any mission,” he said.