Airbus selects Northrop Grumman to supply next-generation navigation system

Northrop Grumman Corporation's Navigation Systems Division has been selected by Airbus to provide global navigation air data inertial reference units for Airbus' single-aisle, long-range and A380 aircraft. The inertial navigation system deliveries under this potential $400 million contract will begin in 2006. The LTN-101E provides critical attitude and navigation data to the aircraft.

The LTN-101E introduces new sensor technology, which will provide significant savings in weight and power, while achieving a four-fold increase in system reliability with a reduction in overall cost of ownership of air data inertial reference systems.

Using Northrop Grumman's patented Autonomous Integrity Monitored Extrapolation algorithm, the system interlaces inertial and GPS measurements to provide an accurate aircraft position. The system also provides air data information such as altitude, air speed, angle of attack and other air data parameters.

The LTN-101E replaces 1980s technology laser gyros with new fibre optic gyros and micro-electro mechanical systems silicon accelerometers. Northrop Grumman has proven the accuracy and reliability of these technologies in its military products. The LTN-101E marks their introduction into the commercial navigation marketplace.

"The LTN-101E is part of the division's objective to provide better situational awareness and value to its customers, and it will be available for use on all Airbus aircraft," said Bill Allison, vice president and general manager of Northrop Grumman's Navigation Systems Division.

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