Northrop Grumman Enhances Air Defense with Advanced AI Integration

Northrop Grumman Enhances Air Defense with Advanced AI Integration
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 13, 2024

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) has introduced an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) capability to its Forward Area Air Defense (FAAD) Advanced Battle Manager (ABM) system, aimed at improving real-time decision-making for warfighters in the counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) mission space. This upgrade comes at a time when threats in this area are growing increasingly complex.

The newly added AI feature allows operators to make optimal UAS swarm defeat decisions with a single click on a mobile device, enhancing mobility for U.S. military forces, as well as their allies and coalition partners. Successfully tested at Arizona's Yuma Proving Grounds earlier this year, the ABM uses AI and data from years of live fire exercises to make real-time weapon-to-target pairings across both kinetic and non-kinetic systems.

Designed for efficiency and adaptability, the ABM can quickly plan engagements in dynamic swarm scenarios, processing data in less than a quarter of a second to deliver engagement plans. It also continuously monitors the battlefield, adjusting as needed, and is capable of supporting multiple weapon types. The system's open architecture allows for easy integration of future weapons.

"As threats evolve, the need for operations to become simple and clear during high-stress multi-target engagements has increased. This critical AI enhancement will create a streamlined and intuitive engagement plan giving service members more time to save lives with a single click," said Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager of global battle management and readiness at Northrop Grumman. "Northrop Grumman and the U.S. Army's collaboration in innovation ensures the combat-proven FAAD system remains at the forefront of C-UAS technology."

The FAAD system plays a critical role in integrating short-range air defense, counter-rocket, artillery, and mortar missions, alongside C-UAS operations. It provides real-time, coordinated defense for U.S., allied, and coalition forces, ensuring seamless interoperability and rapid response to complex threats. Its cyber-certified command and control software provides a unified air picture, airspace coordination, and fire control across multiple domains. FAAD's adaptable design allows for fast, cost-effective technology updates and is currently deployed in various locations worldwide.