AIDN
AIDN
  • Membership
    • Member Benefits & Registration
  • News & Events
    • Newsroom
    • Events
  • About Us
    • Our Board Members
    • Our Team
    • Our Presidents
  • 2023 Sovereign Capability Showcase
  • Gallery
  • Contact
  • Member Area
  • Locations:
  • Australian Capital Territory
  • New South Wales
  • Queensland
  • Western Australia
  • Northern Territory
  • South Australia
  • Victoria
  • Tasmania

Northrop Grumman to deliver next-gen targeting system to USMC

Newsroom

23/02/2023


Photo: Defence Connect

Northrop Grumman has secured an initial production and operations contract with the United States Marine Corps (USMC) to deliver the Next Generation Handheld Targeting System (NGHTS).

Northrop Grumman’s NGHTS system performs rapid target acquisition, laser terminal guidance operation, and laser spot imaging functions using its advanced range finder and designator — this will provide ground forces with the option to call in a target, transmit the precise location or use laser designation where previously the only option was to call in target coordinates on a field radio.

Bob Gough, vice-president of navigation, targeting and survivability, Northrop Grumman, explained, “NGHTS’ advanced technology will significantly enhance warfighters’ ability to safely complete their missions.

“NGHTS is lightweight and combines four systems into one portable device with state-of-the-art imaging, targeting, ranging, designating, and networking. This compact, multi-sensor electro-optical/infrared device lightens Marines’ loads and keeps them connected while adding precision and safety to their missions,” Gough explained further.

This single, ergonomic handheld product packed with advanced targeting capabilities will enable the Marines to quickly acquire and perform guidance against targets and generate target location data during combat operations.

NGHTS features three sensors: a colour day imager, a low-light imager, and a thermal imager for creating images in total darkness.

It also includes a high-precision GPS receiver and a celestial compass that provides azimuth readings (the angular measurement in a spherical coordinate system) for a target’s heading relative to NGHTS to within fractions of a degree — the system allows for further targeting ranges than current legacy systems.

The NGHTS system provides superior observation from even the most environmentally and physically onerous locations — during twilight, one of the most challenging times of day to see targets. The streamlined graphical user interface (GUI) provides a sharp and clear image.

This improved user experience allows the warfighter to conduct accurate target location and laser guidance during combat operations no matter the conditions.

Weighing less than 4.5 kilograms, the unit is extremely durable, and will be tested under extreme conditions of temperature, vibration, salt-fog and altitude. To create efficiencies and prioritise sustainment, Northrop Grumman designed various parts for NGHTS that can be 3D printed in the field rather sending them elsewhere for repair.

Read More

Recent Posts

  • Babcock, HII team up to support Aussie nuclear sub program

    Babcock, HII team up to support Aussie nuclear sub program

    22/09/2023
  • Invictus Games Closing Ceremony celebrates our Defence personnel

    Invictus Games Closing Ceremony celebrates our Defence personnel

    22/09/2023
  • PJCIS to review military secrets legislation

    PJCIS to review military secrets legislation

    22/09/2023
  • Parliamentary Committee to review Defence Fuel Transformation project

    Parliamentary Committee to review Defence Fuel Transformation project

    22/09/2023
  • Albanese Government boosts ADF’s maritime patrol and response aircraft fleet

    Albanese Government boosts ADF’s maritime patrol and response aircraft fleet

    22/09/2023
  • Independent review of land uses around key Defence bases impacted by PFAS contamination

    Independent review of land uses around key Defence bases impacted by PFAS contamination

    22/09/2023
  • ADF SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES INTEROPERABILITY TRAINING IN INDONESIA

    ADF SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES INTEROPERABILITY TRAINING IN INDONESIA

    14/09/2023
  • Award-Winning Defence Industry Female Mentoring Program Commences Ninth Year with a Record Number of Participants

    Award-Winning Defence Industry Female Mentoring Program Commences Ninth Year with a Record Number of Participants

    14/09/2023
  • NEW LEGISLATION TO SAFEGUARD AUSTRALIA’S MILITARY SECRETS

    NEW LEGISLATION TO SAFEGUARD AUSTRALIA’S MILITARY SECRETS

    14/09/2023
  • Boeing to develop DARPA hypersonic missile interceptor

    Boeing to develop DARPA hypersonic missile interceptor

    13/09/2023


Australian Industry & Defence Network.

Subscribe → Subscribe →

Menu

  • Home
  • About us
  • Contact Us
  • Events
  • Gallery
  • Industries
  • 2023 Sovereign Capability Showcase

Account

  • Login
  • Register

Legal

  • Privacy Policy

Our Social Pages

  • Share on Linkedin Linkedin
  • Instagram
AIDN

Member Services: info@aidn.org.au

Address: PO Box 5541, Kingston, ACT 2604

2023 © Australian Industry & Defence Network (AIDN)