Northrop Grumman secures U.S. Navy contract modification to expand SEWIP Block 3 electronic warfare systems

By Lukasz Prus (Defence Industry Europe)

The U.S. Navy has awarded Northrop Grumman a contract modification to produce up to nine additional Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program Block 3 systems. The award includes the first shipset planned for installation on an aircraft carrier.
Photo: Northrop Grumman.

The U.S. Navy has awarded Northrop Grumman a contract modification to produce up to nine additional Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program Block 3 systems. The award includes the first shipset planned for installation on an aircraft carrier.

 

With this modification, Northrop Grumman is now under contract to deliver up to 24 SEWIP Block 3 systems to the Navy. The program is designed to enhance ship survivability by using advanced electronic attack capabilities to counter missile threats.

SEWIP Block 3 is a program of record for the Navy and focuses on improving defensive capabilities for surface vessels. The system allows ships to detect, disrupt and neutralize incoming threats before they can strike.

Officials said the technology is part of a broader effort to strengthen naval operations in increasingly complex threat environments. The system supports the protection of both vessels and personnel through advanced electronic warfare techniques.

“Our commitment to innovation means we’re not just delivering systems; we’re redefining naval capabilities,” said Lara Kopf. “The SEWIP Block 3 technology transforms the future of electronic warfare by enhancing the adaptability and resilience of our fleet in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.”



Northrop Grumman is also applying SEWIP Block 3 technology to develop Scaled Onboard Electronic Attack capabilities. The new system is intended to provide similar electronic attack functionality for ships that cannot accommodate the full SEWIP Block 3 configuration.

The Scaled Onboard Electronic Attack system is designed with reduced size, weight and power requirements. This allows it to be deployed on a wider range of platforms while maintaining the ability to disrupt and jam incoming missile threats.

The company said it is currently under contract with the Navy and is in the rapid prototyping phase for the system. The effort builds on more than a decade of experience gained through SEWIP Block 3 development.

Northrop Grumman said the broader SEWIP family of systems plays a key role in naval defense strategy. These systems are designed to help ships avoid, mitigate or neutralize threats across a range of operational scenarios.

Officials said the continued expansion of SEWIP capabilities reflects the Navy’s focus on electronic warfare as a critical component of maritime defense. The integration of these systems is expected to enhance fleet resilience and operational effectiveness.

 

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