The Air Force has awarded a $13.3 billion contract to Northrop Grumman Corporation to modernize the intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) system via the Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) program.
The scope of work would be based on the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase.
“Our nation is facing a rapidly evolving threat environment and protecting our citizens with a modern strategic deterrent capability has never been more critical,” Kathy Warden, chairman, chief executive officer and president, Northrop Grumman, said. “With more than 65 years of technical leadership on every ICBM system, our nationwide team is honored and committed to continuing our partnership with the U.S. Air Force to deliver a safe, secure and effective system that will contribute to global stability for years to come.”
The 8.5 years endeavor is slated to address weapon system design, qualification, test and evaluation, and nuclear certification. Upon completion of EMD, the Northrop Grumman will begin producing and delivering a modern and fully integrated weapon system to meet the Air Force schedule of initial operational capability by 2029.
Northrop Grumman has demonstrated innovation and agility by applying a digital engineering approach and achieved all technology maturation and risk reduction (TMRR) design review milestones on time and cost. The GBSD program would involve over 10,000 people nationwide working directly on the program.