Norway's Kitron AS To Supply Electronic Modules For F-35 Aircraft Avionics

Northrop Grumman has signed a long-term agreement with Norway-based Kitron AS to supply subassembly electronic modules for F-35 Lightning II aircraft avionics.

The agreement is effective through June 30, 2036, and includes rights for future extensions.

Northrop Grumman developed the Communication, Navigation and Identification (CNI) avionics for the F-35, a fifth-generation, international, multirole fighter and the world's most advanced military aircraft.

The first F-35A Lightning II for Norway is scheduled for delivery, the company announced on September 22.

"Northrop Grumman is committed to developing a cost-effective and technically superior source that would provide the best value for the F-35 CNI program," said Jeannie Hilger, vice president, network communication systems, Northrop Grumman Information Systems.

Northrop Grumman's integrated CNI suite provides F-35 pilots with the capability of more than 27 avionics functions including voice and data communication. The CNI design uses advanced software-defined radio technology that allows the simultaneous operation of multiple critical functions while greatly reducing size, weight and power demands on the advanced fighter aircraft.

"The CNI system is critically important to the F-35 and provides the aircraft with its ability to be integrated into the wider battlespace," said Andrew Tyler, chief executive, Europe, Northrop Grumman.

"This agreement will further strengthen the deep partnership with Norway that we have built up over the years and which dates back to 1940." Tyler added.

For more than a decade, the US, Norway and seven other partner nations have invested in developing the F-35. In addition to the nine partners, three countries have agreed to procure F-35 aircraft through the Foreign Military Sales process.