US Defense Department Awards $1.84 Billion Contract for Litening Targeting Pods to Northrop Grumman
The United States Defense Department has entered into a $1.84 billion contract with Northrop Grumman to supply Litening targeting pods to the US Air Force. This agreement, which will remain in effect until 2035, includes the supply, upgrade, and maintenance of these systems. Litening targeting pods, developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and manufactured in the US by Northrop Grumman, are crucial for identifying ground targets and unmanned aerial vehicles. The pods are used across various US military aircraft, including the F-15E, F-16, and A-10, among others. Despite the introduction of the F-35 aircraft, which has an integrated weapons guidance system, the US military continues to utilize Litening pods for other aircraft.