Northrop Grumman has demonstrated its Gateway technology on the MQ-4C Triton unmanned surveillance aircraft, allowing exchange of data across a variety of platforms including F-35 and other aircraft and warships.
This is an advanced capability which could eventually be installed aboard RAAF Tritons of which three are now under construction.
Northrop Grumman said the Gateway technology, which links disparate datalink formats, integrated with Triton’s onboard radar, artificial intelligence and machine learning to significantly enhance situational awareness across previously disconnected platforms.
It could also be used to enhance networking of ally ships and aircraft.
“Triton’s altitude, persistence and robust communications links make it an ideal candidate to host the Gateway system,” said Jane Bishop, Northrop Grumman vice-president for global surveillance.
Australia is set to buy up to seven Tritons for long range high altitude maritime surveillance but so far has contracted for only three. All are now under construction, with aircraft number one set for first flight later this year and delivery in mid-2024.
Australian aircraft will be based at RAAF Tindal in the North Territory and controlled from RAAF Edinburgh in South Australia.
The Gateway trial was conducted using the Triton flying test bed, in conjunction with US Naval Air Systems Command, US Office of Naval Research, US Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific and BAE Systems.
In the test, the Triton shared sensor data from ground-based simulators representing an F-35, an E-2D Advanced Hawkeye surveillance aircraft, US Navy Aegis warships and a carrier strike group.
Northrop Grumman is now conducting a block upgrade of US Navy Tritons to improve the new Multi-INT (multi-intelligence) system which will also go on Australian aircraft.
That’s an enhanced electronic intelligence gathering and communications monitoring capability involving improved sensors. There’s also a more capable electro-optical sensor.
Should the Australian Defence Force decide Gateway is a desirable capability, it could be installed aboard some or all Australian Tritons.
As a partner with the US Navy in the Triton program, Australia can influence development of this capability to best meet ADF requirements.
“Australia is in there as part of that cooperative program and can influence requirements commensurate with not only US Navy needs but Australian needs,” said Northrop Grumman Australia Triton program director ‘Jake’ Campbell.