NOC to Supply LITENING G4 to RDAF

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC - Analyst Report) has been awarded a contract by the Danish Ministry of Defense. The company will supply its LITENING G4 targeting system to the Royal Danish Air Force (“RDAF”) to be installed on its F-16 fighter aircrafts. The contract award came after a rigorous selection process and reaffirms the confidence of the international aviation community in the LITENING G4 targeting system.

Per the contract, Northrop will deliver LITENING G4 pods, data links, spares, support equipment, training and associated logistics support to the RDAF. Delivery is expected to commence from August, 2013.

The LITENING G4 Advanced Targeting pod integrates the technological advancements in data link, laser imaging technology and sensors. These enable accurate target identification and location at longer ranges in comparison to the previous generations of the pod systems.

In October 2011, the company completed its first LITENING G4 targeting system delivery to the U.S. Air Force. Apart from the U.S., the company supplied this system to Israel and several European countries.

Northrop has signed quite a few contracts with the U.S. and other international defense establishments for the LITENING G4 targeting system in the recent past. In May 2012, the company entered into an agreement, worth $103 million, with Naval Air Systems Command to provide LITENING G4 targeting systems including G4 upgrade kits and spares to the Air National Guard.

Northrop Grumman offers a strong program portfolio positioned to take advantage of focus areas in the defense space, an improving balance sheet and an ongoing share repurchase program. Also, its product line in high priority categories, such as defense electronics, unmanned aircraft and missile defense, gives Northrop Grumman an edge over its competitors.

Northrop Grumman Corporation currently retains a Zacks #2 Rank, which translates into a short-term Buy rating. The company competes with General Dynamics Corporation (GD - Analyst Report).

Virginia-based Northrop Grumman Corporation is one of the largest defense contractors in the U.S. The company supplies a broad array of products and services to the U.S. Department of Defense, including electronic systems, information technology, aircraft, space technology and systems integration services.