Author: Defence Street Editor

Boeing Brings Fuel-Efficient Jets and Defense Capabilities to 2023 Paris Air Show
- Newest commercial jets – 737-10 and 777-9 – to soar in flying display
- Defense platforms include CH-47F Chinook, AH-64D Apache, P-8A Poseidon and KC-46A Pegasus
- Wisk Aero’s 6th generation autonomous, all-electric air taxi to make public debut, including completed interior
- Boeing’s “Cascade” emissions modeling platform open to public; along with new data visualization tool for sustainable aviation fuel
Boeing will showcase the 737-10, the largest member of the MAX family, in the 2023 Paris Air Show’s flying display. (Photo: Boeing)

LE BOURGET, PARIS, 12th June 2023. Boeing will showcase its market-leading aerospace and defense portfolio at the 2023 Paris Air Show, including highly efficient commercial jets, critical defense platforms, customer-focused services and innovative autonomous technologies.

The 737-10, the largest member of the MAX family, will join the new 777-9 in the show’s flying display, while Boeing subsidiary Wisk Aero debuts its all-electric, autonomous 6th generation air taxi – which the company plans to certify for commercial passenger operations.

Boeing will showcase the 777-9, the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet, in the 2023 Paris Air Show’s flying display. (Photo: Boeing)

With a strong commitment toward a sustainable aerospace industry, Boeing will demonstrate its “Cascade” Climate Impact Model, a data-modeling tool recently made available to the public to provide actionable insights towards the aviation industry’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. The company will also debut a new tool that tracks sustainable aviation fuel capacity around the world, and provide an update on delivering 100% SAF-compatible airplanes by 2030.

“As our industry returns to Le Bourget, we look forward to joining our customers, suppliers and partners at a time when commercial air travel demand is surging and defense platforms are more critical to global security,” said Dr. Brendan Nelson, president of Boeing Global. “For more than a century, Boeing has protected, connected and inspired people around the world through innovation and transformative products. With sustainable growth at the forefront of the next 100 years, we will continue to collaborate around the globe to support aviation’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050.”

Below are some of the events and programs Boeing will highlight during the air show.

Commercial Airplanes:

The 737-10 and 777-9 will debut at Le Bourget on June 18.

The 737-10 will provide operators with more capacity, greater fuel efficiency and the best per-seat economics of any single-aisle airplane. The 737 MAX family has received more than 3,500 net orders, and its advanced aerodynamic design and highly-efficient engines reduce fuel use and emissions 20% and the noise footprint 50% compared to airplanes it replaces.

The 777-9, the world’s largest and most efficient twin-engine jet, is based on the most successful twin-aisle family – the 777 – with advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner. The 777-9 will deliver 10% better fuel use, emissions and operating costs than the competition. At exhibit B337, Boeing will showcase the 777X passenger interior in an immersive display highlighting its wider cabin, spacious and flexible architecture and options designed to create an unparalleled experience. Boeing has booked more than 350 net orders for the 777X family, which include the 777-8 and 777-9 passenger models and the new 777-8 Freighter.

Additionally, Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s newest carrier, will showcase a Boeing-owned 787-9 in its new indigo livery inspired by the colors of the sky at dusk. The airplane will be on static display throughout the week.

Defense, Space & Security:

Boeing aircraft on display in the U.S. Department of Defense corral will include its highly capable rotorcraft platforms – the CH-47F Chinook and AH-64D Apache – and its mobility and surveillance aircraft, the P-8A Poseidon and KC-46A Pegasus. Other aircraft on display include Boeing’s B-1B Lancer, C-17 Globemaster, and the F-15E Strike Eagle.

Come listen to the roar and feel the heat of the rocket engines with a unique Artemis experience in the Boeing Pavilion. Attendees can learn about the historic launch as part of Boeing’s Artemis Experience.

Global Services:

Boeing Global Services will showcase how its innovative portfolio of solutions keeps the world’s fleet flying safely, sustainably and efficiently. With offerings that address nearly every aspect of a customer’s operations, Global Services will highlight its capabilities in parts and distribution, digital solutions, modifications, fleet sustainment, training, and cabins and interiors. Attendees will have access to an interactive experience that highlights Global Services’ offerings across commercial, government and business and general aviation.

Autonomy:

Boeing is a market leader in autonomous capability, introducing autonomy widely across its portfolio including MQ-25, MQ-28, Starliner, Insitu, X37-B, and more. Recently, Boeing became the sole owner of Wisk Aero, a California-based eVTOL company that is developing the first all-electric, self-flying air taxi in the U.S. for the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) market. Wisk will open new markets and bring air transportation with zero emissions closer to where people live.

Wisk’s 6th generation aircraft will be on display at the Wisk pavilion. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the cabin of the autonomous four-passenger aircraft and learn about the customer flight experience.

Also at Paris Air Show:

Boeing will release its 2023 Commercial Market Outlook (CMO) on June 18. The company’s annual forecast of 20-year demand for commercial airplanes and services is among the most accurate forecasts in aviation, building on 60 years of analysis and insights into airline strategies, passenger demand and economic data.

At Le Bourget, Boeing leaders will discuss market opportunities, eVTOL, sustainability and other topics at media briefings. See boeing.com/Paris and follow @Boeing, @BoeingAirplanes and @BoeingDefense on Twitter for information.
June 13, 2023
Raytheon Technologies delivers fourth combat-ready laser weapon to U.S. Air Force
- Palletized 10kW laser can be moved and mounted anywhere
MCKINNEY, Texas, 12 June 2023. Last fall, the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center and Raytheon Technologies successfully tested the Air Force’s first palletized high-energy laser weapon during four days of continuous live-fire exercises at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico.

The new palletized laser weapon was the first 10-kilowatt laser built to U.S. military specifications in a stand-alone configuration that can be moved and mounted anywhere it’s needed. Known as “H4,” it is the fourth operational laser weapon system that Raytheon Technologies has delivered to the Air Force and is the eighth total system the company has delivered to the US Department of Defense.

The palletized laser weapon, aimed at protecting people and assets against short-range aerial threats, passed the Air Force’s Test and Assessment plan. This included multiple days of live-fire exercises to acquire, target, track and destroy drone targets in short-range attack, swarm attack, and long-range threat scenarios.

“Anywhere the Air Force sees a threat from drones, they now have four proven laser weapons that can be deployed to stop asymmetrical threats,” said Michael Hofle, senior director of High-Energy Lasers at Raytheon Technologies. “Whether it’s on a fixed location, a flatbed or even a pickup, these laser weapons are compact, rugged and ready to go. That’s why we’re proud to support the Air Force’s effort to provide this new tech to the personnel who need it in the field, who can trust and be confident in the system’s capabilities.”

Small enough to fit in the bed of a pickup truck, the laser weapon system comprises a high-energy laser weapon module, a long-range EO/IR sensor that also serves as the beam director, thermal control, internal electrical power, and targeting software—all packaged together for use in the toughest combat environments. It is operated with a laptop and a video game-style controller, and it can plug into a long list of existing air defense, and command and control systems to provide a needed layer of defense.

The palletized laser weapon system was built in the world’s first laser weapon factory in McKinney, Texas, and delivered to the Life Cycle Management Center nine months after receipt of order.
June 13, 2023
PM inaugurates first-ever National Training Conclave
- It is the responsibility of all government servants to increase faith of people in the government system: PM
- Training should nurture potential of officials as well as inculcate whole of government approach and spirit of Jan Bhagidari: PM
- Old approach where posting in training institutions was seen as punishment posting is changing: PM
- Discussing vertical and horizontal silos, PM exhorted officials to break the shackles of hierarchy while seeking out those with experience
- Karmayogi Mission seeks to improve the orientation, mindset and approach of the government personnel so that they feel content and happy, and as a by-product of this improvement, the governance system will improve organically: PM
PM at the inauguration of the first-ever National Training Conclave at the International Exhibition and Convention Centre, in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi on 11th June 2023.

New Delhi, 11th June 2023. Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the first-ever National Training Conclave at the International Exhibition and Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Prime Minister’s address was replete with many anecdotes and stories emanating from his rich political and administrative experience. By giving such examples in his address, he emphasised the importance of aspects like service orientation of government work, ownership in realising the aspirations of common man, need to break hierarchy and using experience of every person in organisation, importance of Jan Bhagidari, the zeal to improve and innovate the system, among other things. He added that the training modules should be oriented and developed such that these aspects are inculcated in the government officials.

Discussing his experience of earlier serving as CM and later as PM, Prime Minister underlined that the government has never lacked talented, dedicated and committed officials. He said that just like the institution of the Army has built impeccable credibility in the eyes of public, it is the responsibility of all government servants to further increase the faith of people in the government system.

Prime Minister said that training should also inculcate a whole of government approach, adding that all efforts must be made to nurture the potential of the officials. He also emphasised that the old approach where posting in the training institutions was seen as punishment posting is changing. He said that training institutes are one of the most important places as they nurture the personnel who work in government for many decades.

Prime Minister also discussed the vertical and horizontal silos and the shackles of hierarchy, exhorting officials to overcome them to seek out those with experience, regardless of hierarchy.

Prime Minister emphasised that training should inculcate the importance of Jan Bhagidari in every government servant. Explaining this to the audience, he credited the success of Swachh Bharat Mission, Aspirational Districts Programme, Amrit Sarovar and the substantial share of India in digital payments in the world, to Jan Bhagidari.

Prime Minister said that training is for every level and for everyone, and in this sense, the iGOT Karmayogi platform has brought about a level playing field as it provides opportunities to everyone for training. He said that iGOT Karmayogi registration crossing the 10 Lakh user base mark shows that people in the system are keen to learn. He added that Karmayogi Mission seeks to improve the orientation, mindset and approach of the government personnel so that they feel content and happy, and as a by-product of this improvement, the governance system improves organically.

He wished all participants of the conclave the best for the day-long deliberations and suggested them to come up with actionable inputs which will help in improving training infrastructure in the country. He also suggested making an institutional mechanism for organising the Conclave at regular intervals.
June 12, 2023
Boeing and Indonesia Partner to Explore Air Traffic Management Improvements
- Boeing to work with AirNav Indonesia
- Joint effort will support safe, efficient and sustainable aviation.
JAKARTA, Indonesia, 12^th June 2023. Boeing has signed an agreement with AirNav Indonesia to explore initiatives to further enhance the safety and efficiency of Indonesia’s national air traffic management system.

Improving airport and flight operations can help increase the safety and sustainability of Indonesia’s aviation system through more efficient movement of aircraft and reduced fuel use.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) brings together Boeing’s engineering expertise with the Indonesian government’s key initiatives in airspace management, training and air traffic management strategic planning. Boeing and AirNav will work closely with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of Indonesia, local airlines, airport operators and other aviation stakeholders in the country.

“AirNav Indonesia is focused on making sure that our airspace system adopts and maintains the highest levels of safety while fostering the growth of Indonesia’s civil aviation industry,” said Mdm. Polana B. Pramesti, President Director of AirNav Indonesia. “Airspace capacity and air traffic management is a shared interest between Boeing and AirNav and a natural space where we need to cooperate. We look forward to this collaboration with Boeing.”

“With its emerging market economy, Indonesia is home to one of the largest aviation markets in Asia,” said Mike Sinnett, senior vice president and general manager of Product Development for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We’re committed to supporting Indonesia’s civil aviation industry and excited to work with AirNav to explore lasting solutions that safely and sustainably enhance Indonesia’s air traffic management system.”

Boeing and Indonesia have worked in partnership for over 74 years to support the development of aerospace and defense capabilities in the country through training, supply chain, and collaborations. Today, Boeing’s presence in Indonesia covers commercial aviation, defense, space, supply chain, and academia partnerships.
June 12, 2023
General Manoj Pande, the Chief of Army Staff Reviews Passing Out Parade at Indian Military Academy, Dehradun
New Delhi, 10th June 2023. General Manoj Pande, the Chief of the Army Staff reviewed the Passing Out Parade (POP) of Gentleman Cadets at Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun today. A total of 374 Gentleman Cadets of 152 Regular Course and 135 Technical Graduate Course, including 42 Gentleman Cadets (GCs) from seven friendly foreign countries successfully passed out from the portals of IMA. Parents and family members of the Passing Out Gentleman Cadets also attended the event and solemnised the pipping ceremony to witness the momentous occasion of their wards being granted Permanent Commission into the Indian Army.

The POP marks the culmination of rigorous training at IMA, a premier institution imparting training in leadership, self-discipline and the art of war. The training at IMA is aimed at the optimum development of intellectual, moral and physical qualities essential for leadership in the profession of arms. Training at the IMA inculcates patriotism, character, dynamism, initiative and understanding that are the very basis of leadership in the Indian Army.

The Army Chief complimented the Parade Commander and participants for the immaculate turnout as well as the crisp & synergised drill movements indicating high standards of training and discipline imbibed by the young leaders. He also complimented the instructors & staff at IMA for the high standards of training being imparted to future leaders of the Army.

The Army Chief, in his address to the passing out course said, “The Profession of Soldiering is the noblest of all professions, that gives you a unique opportunity to don the uniform and serve your motherland, with selfless devotion. It is a career, driven by a sense of purpose and demands sacrifices from you, beyond the call of duty. In the years ahead, your resilience, determination and unwavering resolve, will be the bedrock upon which the Indian Army will continue to make the tricolour proud, in all its pursuits.”

Complimenting the parents of the gentlemen cadets the COAS said, “My compliments to the proud parents and guardians, for raising these fine men of character, who are today ready to be the guardians of the robust value system upheld by the Indian Army. Your role, contribution and continued support is acknowledged, without which this feat would not have been achieved. To transform these young boys into combat leaders, has been our shared vision, and today, we see it happening before us. The nation will remain indebted for your valued contribution.”

The Army Chief also complimented the Gentleman Cadets from the Friendly Foreign Countries and said, “Let me congratulate all the forty-two (42) Gentleman Cadets from various Friendly Foreign Countries for having completed their training at academy. I am sure, you as ambassadors of your country will carry back a treasure of good memories of the place and training with you and will cherish them forever. The Indian Military Academy has imparted training to you which form a bedrock for your growth both professionally and personally and will definitely strengthen the friendly ties between our countries.”

The Reviewing Officer presented the following awards: –
- The prestigious Sword of Honour award was awarded to Academy Under Officer Mihir Banerjee.
- Gold Medal for the Gentlemen Cadet standing First in the Order of Merit was awarded to Senior Under Officer Abhimanyu Singh.
- Silver Medal for the Gentlemen Cadet standing Second in the Order of Merit was awarded to Academy Under Officer Mihir Banerjee.
- Bronze Medal for the Gentlemen Cadet standing Third in the Order of Merit was awarded to Battallion Under Officer Kamalpreet Singh.
- Silver Medal for the Gentlemen Cadet standing First in the Order of Merit from Technical Graduate Course was awarded to Junior Under Officer Sury Bhan Singh.
- ‘Bangladesh Trophy & Medal’ for the Gentleman Cadet standing First in the Order of Merit from Foreign GCs was awarded to GC Kinga Lhendup (Bhutanese Army).
- Chief of Army Staff Banner was awarded to Cassino Company for standing Overall First amongst 12 training companies for the Spring Term 2023.
The Passing Out Parade was followed by most awaited “Pipping Ceremony,” in which the shining brass stars which were pipped by the proud parents of the newly commissioned officers of the Indian Army. These newly commissioned young Lieutenants will be joining their respective units all across the country, including the Northern & Western borders.
June 10, 2023
Combined Operations of INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant
- The ‘Sky’ is the Limit: Showcasing Indian Navy’s Multi-Aircraft Carrier Force
New Delhi, 10th June 2023. Indian Ocean – The Indian Navy showcased its formidable maritime capabilities today with a spectacular display of multi-carrier operations and the coordinated deployment of more than 35 aircraft in the Arabian Sea. This demonstration of naval prowess underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its national interests, maintaining regional stability, and fostering cooperative partnerships in the maritime domain.

It also marks a significant milestone in Indian Navy’s pursuit of enhancing maritime security and power-projection in the Indian Ocean, and beyond. The exercise involved seamless integration of two Aircraft Carriers INS Vikramaditya and the indigenously built INS Vikrant- along with a diverse fleet of ships, submarines and aircraft, showcasing India’s technological expertise in the maritime domain.

INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant, centre-pieces of the exercise, serve as ‘floating sovereign airfields’, providing a launch platform for a wide array of aircraft, including MiG-29K fighter jets, MH60R, Kamov, Sea King, Chetak and ALH helicopters. These mobile bases can be positioned anywhere, allowing for increased mission flexibility, timely response to emerging threats and sustained air operations to safeguard our national interests across the globe. In addition, they provide our friends with an assurance that the Indian Navy is capable and ready to support our ‘collective’ security needs in the Region.

The successful demonstration of two-carrier battle group operations serves as a powerful testament to the pivotal role of sea-based air power in maintaining maritime superiority. As India continues to strengthen its security apparatus, significance of Aircraft Carriers will remain paramount in shaping the nation’s defence strategy and promoting regional stability.
June 10, 2023
General Atomics Awarded Contract For EMALS and AAG for Future Ford-Class Aircraft Carrier USS Doris Miller

SAN DIEGO. On 8th June 2023, General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) announced on June 8 that it has been awarded a contract modification by Naval Air Systems Command for the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) for the future Ford-class aircraft carrier USS Doris Miller (CVN 81). GA-EMS will provide production, manufacturing, engineering, program management, logistics support, and information assurance to deliver EMALS and AAG shipsets for CVN 81.

“From coast to coast, our employees, subcontractors, and suppliers are excited to begin work delivering these critical launch and recovery technologies to the fourth carrier in the Ford-class,” stated Scott Forney, president of GA-EMS. “Having GA-EMS now under contract to provide EMALS and AAG for the CVN 81 enables greater efficiency and utilization of our unique capabilities and resources to help meet construction and maintenance requirements and fleet readiness for all Ford-class carriers going forward.”

GA-EMS delivered EMALS and AAG to the first-in-class USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) and is under contract with the Navy to support CVN 78 sustainment requirements. CVN 78 has completed blue water certification with a full air wing and sustained operations supported by EMALS and AAG. In addition to this CVN 81 contract award, GA-EMS is also under contract and delivering EMALS and AAG for the future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) and USS Enterprise (CVN 80).

“CVN 79 EMALS and AAG certification is underway, and over 80% of CVN 80 EMALS and AAG production has been completed. We are proud to continue our working relationship with the Navy as each carrier continues preparations to enter service to our nation for the decades to come,” said Rolf Ziesing, vice president of GA-EMS Maritime Programs.

About General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) Group is a global leader in the research, design, and manufacture of first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and power generation systems. GA-EMS’ history of research, development, and technology innovation has led to an expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions supporting aviation, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and processing and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

June 10, 2023

CAQM following a comprehensive review directs all sectors in the NCR including Industrial, Commercial, Residential, Office establishments for effective adoption of the Revised Schedule for regulated operations of Diesel Generator (DG) sets including for periods under GRAP

The Revised Schedule for regulations on DG sets to come into force in the entire NCR strictly w.e.f. 01.10.2023
Retro-fitment of dual fuel kits and/or ECDs, wherever warranted needs to be targeted to be completed latest by 30.09.2023, failing which the use of the DG set shall not be permitted under any circumstances, anywhere in the entire NCR, even for the periods not under GRAP restrictions

New Delhi, 8th June 2023. To comprehensively and effectively prevent, control and abate air pollution caused by Diesel Generator (DG) sets in the National Capital Region (NCR), the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas (CAQM), in modification of all extant directions/ orders/ guidelines, has directed for adoption of the Revised Schedule for regulated operations of DG sets across all sectors in the NCR including Industrial, Commercial, Residential, Office establishments, etc. The Revised Schedule is tabled below:

S. No.	Capacity Range of DG sets	System to be adopted for control of emissions	Regulations for use
	Power generating sets of all capacities running on LPG/ Natural Gas/ Bio-gas/Propane/Butane	None	No restrictions. (Even during periods under GRAP(Graded Response Action Plan) )
	Portable DG sets (below 19 kW)	None	No restrictions other than under GRAP. Not to be permitted during periods of restriction under GRAP.
	19 kW to less than 125 kW	Dual fuel mode (Natural Gas & Diesel)	No restrictions during periods other than under GRAP. To be permitted to run for maximum 2 hrs. in a day during restrictions under GRAP subject to methodical maintenance of log of operation of DG sets, preferably in a digital mode.
	125 kW to less than 800 kW	Dual fuel mode AND Retro-fitted ECDs through certified vendors / agencies	No restrictions. (Even during periods under GRAP)
	800 kW and above	Dual fuel mode OR Any other emission control device/ System Strictly subject to compliance for stack emissions.	No restrictions during periods other than under GRAP. To be permitted to run for maximum 2 hrs. in a day during restrictions under GRAP subject to methodical maintenance of log of operation of DG sets, preferably in a digital mode.
	New power generating sets of all capacities up to 800 kW procured to the standards as in MoEFCC notification No.Q-15017/05/ 2012-CPW and GSR 804(E) dated 03.11.2022	None	No restrictions. (Even during periods under GRAP)

Further, the above noted schedule for regulation of DG sets would come into force in the entire NCR strictly w.e.f. 01.10.2023. Retro-fitment of dual fuel kits and/ or Emission Control Devices (ECDs), wherever warranted, needs to be targeted to be completed latest by 30.09.2023, failing which the use of the DG set shall not be permitted under any circumstances, anywhere in the entire NCR, even for periods not under GRAP restrictions.

Representations from industrial associations, commercial entities, business organizations and individuals were received in the Commission and the issues have been repeatedly raised during interactions including with the industrial associations and the Chambers of Commerce, and with MSMEs associations across NCR in particular citing various techno-commercial and financial constraints. In view of the technical, commercial and practical aspects and the constraints involved in emission control from DG sets and considering the practical aspects of implementation of Directions and a need to minimize pollution arising out of large scale use of DG sets across the various sectors including industrial, commercial, institutional and residential units/ premises, the extant directions on the regulated use of DG sets were comprehensively reviewed leading to the revised schedule.

The Commission again urges all stakeholders concerned including vendors for all capacities of DG sets in the NCR, to strictly adopt of the Revised Schedule for regulated operations of DG sets across all sectors in the entire NCR. NCR State Pollution Control Boards (PCBs)/ DPCC shall ensure compliance of above directions through suitable consent mechanisms and periodic monitoring.

June 9, 2023

‘Agni Prime’ ballistic missile successfully flight-tested by DRDO off Odisha coast

New Delhi, 8th June 2023. New Generation Ballistic Missile ‘Agni Prime’ was successfully flight-tested by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on June 07, 2023. During the flight test, all objectives were successfully demonstrated.

This was the first pre-induction night launch conducted by the users after three successful developmental trials of the missile, validating the accuracy and reliability of the system. Range Instrumentation like Radar, Telemetry and Electro Optical Tracking Systems were deployed at different locations, including two down-range ships, at the terminal point to capture flight data covering the entire trajectory of the vehicle.

Senior officials from DRDO and Strategic Forces Command witnessed the successful flight-test, which has paved the way for induction of the system into the Armed Forces.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO and the Armed Forces for the success as well as the copy-book performance of the New Generation Ballistic Missile Agni Prime

Secretary Department of Defence R&D & Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat appreciated the efforts put in by the teams of DRDO laboratories and the users involved in the test launch.

June 9, 2023
Northrop Grumman to Produce New Maritime Navigation Sensor for U.S. Navy

The Northrop Grumman-built AN/WSN-12 Inertial Sensor Module provides accurate positioning data with or without GPS for Navy ships and submarines. (Photo Credit: U.S. Navy)

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., June 8. The U.S. Navy awarded Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) a production contract for the new AN/WSN-12 Inertial Sensor Module (ISM). Northrop Grumman’s AN/WSN-12 ISM is a next-generation sensor that significantly improves maritime navigation in Global Positioning System (GPS) denied environments for surface ships and submarines.

“The new AN/WSN-12 Inertial Navigator System will deliver more precision and performance for the warfighter while occupying the same footprint as its predecessor.” said Todd Leavitt, vice president, naval and oceanic systems, Northrop Grumman. “This allows upgrades to be made on existing systems where space is at a premium.”

The new AN/WSN-12 ISM is a key component of the U.S. Navy’s AN/WSN-12 Inertial Navigator System (INS), upgrading the Northrop Grumman built AN/WSN-7 INS. The WSN-7 is on nearly every ship in the U.S. Navy and has been the program of record for more than two decades. Surface ships and submarines rely heavily on the positioning data provided by GPS for navigation, for safety at sea and to fire weapons. The AN/WSN-12 ISM provides highly accurate positioning data with or without GPS, a key component to establishing Assured Position, Navigation, and Timing (A-PNT) maritime solutions. The first ISM will be fielded later this year.

Northrop Grumman is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Our pioneering solutions equip our customers with the capabilities they need to connect and protect the world, and push the boundaries of human exploration across the universe. Driven by a shared purpose to solve our customers’ toughest problems, our 95,000 employees define possible every day.

June 9, 2023