March 15, 2025

U.S. Navy orders two additional MQ-4C Triton drones from Northrop Grumman

By Defence Industry Europe

Northrop Grumman Corporation successfully completed the first flight of Australia’s multi-intelligence MQ-4C Triton uncrewed aircraft on Thursday, Nov. 9 at its Palmdale Aircraft Integration Center in California. The flight marks a major production milestone as Northrop Grumman progresses toward delivery of Australia’s first Triton in 2024. — The multi-intelligence MQ-4C Triton is the only uncrewed high-altitude aircraft in the world performing persistent maritime surveillance today. (Photo Credit: Northrop Grumman)

The United States Department of Defense has announced a contract with Northrop Grumman for the purchase of two additional MQ-4C Triton unmanned aerial vehicles. The agreement, valued at USD 267.2 million, will see the aircraft delivered to the US Navy's maritime aviation fleet by October 2028.

The contract includes full funding at the time of signing, covering not only the production of the two MQ-4C Triton drones but also a spare parts package worth $1.4 million for Australia. These drones are part of the seventh production series, further expanding the fleet of high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) aircraft.

To date, Northrop Grumman has delivered approximately 28 MQ-4C Triton drones, leading to the announcement of initial operational capability in August 2023. The U.S. Navy has also begun supplying the aircraft to its first international customer, Australia, as part of an export programme.

The MQ-4C Triton is designed to support continuous intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, maintaining five reconnaissance orbits worldwide on a 24/7 basis. These operations will be facilitated by both domestic and overseas airbases, ensuring global operational reach for the U.S. Navy.

Ultimately, the U.S. Navy aims to acquire a total of 68 MQ-4C Triton aircraft to enhance its maritime patrol capabilities. The drones will complement the manned Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft, providing a comprehensive aerial surveillance network for monitoring and securing maritime regions.