Northrop Grumman Demonstrates Platform Agnostic In-Flight Connectivity for US Air Force
March 23, 2023 | Northrop GrummanEstimated reading time: 1 minute
Northrop Grumman Corporation successfully demonstrated the technical capability to connect a full aircraft ecosystem. The company showcased its Software Programmable Open Mission Systems Compliant (SPOC) multifunction processor in a flight test for the U.S. Air Force, highlighting the ability to integrate existing and future platforms using advanced data links.
“With the maturity of our technology, we have the solutions today that will provide unparalleled mission effectiveness,” said Jenna Paukstis, vice president, communications solutions, Northrop Grumman. “We are connecting platforms that will benefit the joint force and provide them with real-time battlespace awareness across air, space, land and sea.”
Advancing technology in solutions like SPOC provide the Air Force with a low size, weight and power radio that is scalable, upgradable and flexible to fit in any platform. The SPOC design also provides an integration environment for next generation communications that can reduce cost, risk and time to deploy.
Flown on Northrop Grumman’s flying test bed at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Maryland, SPOC connected with a ground station in a live, over-the-air test using advanced waveforms. This flight test is part of a contract with the Air Force to develop and demonstrate a solution to help define the Air Force’s next generation radio approach. Developing SPOC using Northrop Grumman’s software development kit and open architecture will allow the Air Force to introduce new capabilities at speed to meet evolving threats.
Testimonial
"In a year when every marketing dollar mattered, I chose to keep I-Connect007 in our 2025 plan. Their commitment to high-quality, insightful content aligns with Koh Young’s values and helps readers navigate a changing industry. "
Brent Fischthal - Koh YoungSuggested Items
New Episode of Voices of the Industry Podcast Explores Breakthroughs in Test and Inspection
10/22/2025 | I-Connect007In this episode of Voices of the Industry, “Testing Innovation: Advances in Test, Inspection & Failure Analysis,” host Nolan Johnson speaks with Rob Boguski, president of Datest. Together, they explore the expanding world of circuit testing, inspection, and failure analysis, areas that are experiencing a surge in technological capability and sophistication. As Johnson and Boguski discuss, today’s test companies are performing analyses and precision methods that would have seemed impossible just a decade ago.
HT Global Circuits Adds Two atg Luther & Maelzer Flying Probe Test Systems
10/15/2025 | atg Luther & Maelzer GmbHAtg Luther & Maelzer GmbH, a leading supplier of electrical testing solutions for the PCB industry, and IEC USA, a distributor of consumables, equipment, and services in the North American PCB market, confirm the order for high-speed bare board testing technology.
Datest Marches Into SMTA International with Backup Plans, Big Partnerships, and Bigger X-rays
10/06/2025 | DatestDatest, the industry’s favorite second set of eyes (and hands, and solder joints), is heading to SMTA International 2025 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. Find us at Booth #2627, where high-reliability, high-complexity builds meet their match.
Discover TRI's AI Ecosystem at productronica 2025
09/25/2025 | TRITest Research, Inc. (TRI), the leading test and inspection systems provider for the electronics manufacturing industry, is excited to announce its participation at productronica 2025, which will be held at Messe München Center from November 18 to 21, 2025.
TTCI Wins 2025 Mexico Technology Award for Test Services
09/22/2025 | TTCIThe Test Connection Inc. (TTCI), a trusted provider of electronic test and manufacturing solutions for more than 45 years, is honored to receive the 2025 Mexico Technology Award in the Test Services category.