The U.S. Air Force awarded a sole-source contract worth up to $100 million to Northrop Grumman for critical support related to the Stand-in Attack Weapon (SiAW) subsystem. This significant award ensures the continued rapid development and readiness of the next-generation missile designed to penetrate and neutralize heavily defended targets. Northrop Grumman will immediately begin providing active seeker components, along with comprehensive test and evaluation services and science and technology development.
Accelerating Next-Generation Strike Capability
The SiAW is an advanced air-to-surface missile specifically engineered to target relocatable systems within an enemy’s Anti-Access/Area Denial (A2/AD) environment. The weapon utilizes a Weapon Open Systems Architecture (WOSA), a design feature that enables the rapid integration of future upgrades and enhanced capabilities. This digital-first approach aligns with the Air Force’s goal to accelerate capability for the warfighter. The SiAW system is currently compatible with the F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighter aircraft, substantially increasing its operational range and tactical value against emerging threats.
Strategic Program Development
This latest award reinforces the Stand-in Attack Weapon (SiAW) program’s momentum, following a previous $705 million Phase 2 contract issued in 2023. Under the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, the SiAW represents the service branch’s first dedicated digital weapons acquisition effort. Authorities project the missile system will achieve initial operating capacity by 2026. Work for this current $100 million contract will primarily take place at the company’s facilities in Baltimore, Maryland, continuing through December 31, 2034.
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