Northrop Grumman to Provide Network Systems for Navy

The U.S. Navy has selected Northrop Grumman Corporation to continue providing tactical communication, network, test systems and services that assure that tactical data link systems operate effectively and efficiently. These systems provide the capability to communicate information to enable network-centric warfare operations. Northrop Grumman's Information Technology (IT) sector provides these products and engineering services to the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), Washington, D.C. The indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract has an initial award value of approximately $6 million, with a ceiling of over $29 million during its five-year period of performance, if all options are exercised. This contract is also used as a contract vehicle for purchase of specific systems by all U.S. services and foreign military sales. This follow-on contract was first awarded in June 1991, and extended in May 1996. "Network-centric warfare provides warfighters critical real-time situational awareness during combat operations," said Barry Rhine, president, Defense Mission Systems, Northrop Grumman IT. "Northrop Grumman IT's systems provide and validate joint and coalition interoperability. Not only the U.S. Navy, but all services, and coalition partners, benefit." The NAVSEA contract provides a vehicle for U.S. and foreign military services to purchase Northrop Grumman IT's proven data link and interoperability systems at fixed prices. The numerous data links and standards supported include Link 11, Link 16, Link 22, United States Message Text Format, Standard Interface for Multiple Platform Link Evaluation, and Joint Range Extension. The multiple link test and training tool and derivatives simulate data link network operations and analyze the results of how systems under test perform. Connectivity devices enable networking not only of local systems, but also systems at geographically remote locations, via standard telephone lines, networks and tactical interfaces. Link management systems oversee live network operations and provide the ability to plan and design networks, evaluate network operations and manage communications problems of participating units.