Triton enters low-rate production

The Navy's MQ-4C Triton has been given a green light for low-rate initial production.

The approval for Milestone C production came after a Milestone Decision Authority review, according to a Northrop Grumman announcement.

Prior to the decision, a Navy and Northrop Grumman team validated the capability of the large UAV's sensors to perform at different altitudes and ranges, as well as classify targets and disseminate data. In addition, the Triton transmitted full-motion video to a P-8A Poseidon manned aircraft in flight.

"Triton's critical technology is mature, and the system development and design review phases have been successful," said Doug Shaffer, Northrop Grumman's vice president for Triton programs. "Completion of the full system Operational Assessment (OA) testing exercised in various real-world scenarios validated the system's ability to protect the Navy's fleet from evolving threats. We are extremely pleased with the maritime domain awareness products and results coming from Triton."

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