Northrop Nears Completion of First Next-Generation Global Hawk

Published: Sep 01, 2005
Source: www.primezone.com



SAN DIEGO, Aug. 30, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) moved significantly closer to completing the first of its next-generation, enhanced-capability RQ-4B Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) due to deliveries of two critical airframe components within the last month.

Vought Aircraft delivered the RQ-4B's new graphite-composite wing assembly in July. Measuring 131 feet, the wing assembly successfully completed a rigorous static test to 100 percent of its limit load, validating its structural integrity. Northrop Grumman completed integration of the wings with the fuselage in July.


"This is a significant step forward in the manufacturing of the Global Hawk RQ-4B," commented George Guerra, director for Northrop Grumman's Global Hawk program. "With the wing mate, we can see the airplane taking shape."continue..