Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman Team Up for the Future of Interception
The Department of Defense has granted two contracts to Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. and Lockheed Martin Corp. to bolster the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) initiative. With a projected maximum value of $1.6 billion extending through fiscal year 2022, this contract allocation is structured to advance two designs into the technology development and risk mitigation phase of the procurement program, aimed at minimizing technical and scheduling uncertainties. This award will guarantee that NGI is a robust and efficient component of an integrated Missile Defense System (MDS) solution.
The Missile Defense Agency’s contracts issued on March 23, 2021, reinforce the department’s objective of enhanced competition by financing two designs, while remaining adaptable to align with evolving Defense Department strategies and priorities.
“Today’s awards represent a significant milestone in the modernization of our Missile Defense System,” stated Stacy Cummings, acting Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. “NGI is crucial for our homeland security, and our acquisition strategy is dedicated to ensuring the department leverages innovation to stay ahead of rapidly evolving threats.”
As part of the ground-based midcourse missile defense framework, NGI is an advanced interceptor engineered to safeguard the nation against intercontinental ballistic missile threats. The department will adhere to “fly before you buy” principles to confirm that the overall system and its components have undergone rigorous flight evaluations prior to any procurement choices.
“NGI is the outcome of the initial comprehensive technical assessment of homeland defenses conducted by the department since the commencement of initial system operations in 2004,” added Vice Adm. Jon Hill, Director of the Missile Defense Agency. “By planning to advance two vendors through technology development, MDA will harness the advantages of competition to deliver the most effective and dependable homeland defense missile to our warfighters as quickly as possible. Once operational, this innovative homeland defense interceptor will be equipped to counter anticipated threats through the 2030s and beyond.”
