Northrop Grumman Space Systems
Business sector of Northrop Grumman that designs and builds space systems, leveraging additive manufacturing for spacecraft components, propulsion, and structures.
- CEO / Founder
- Robert Fleming
- Team Size
- 5001-10000
- Stage
- Public
Technology & Products
Key Products
Satellites; Launch systems; Spacecraft; Missile defense systems; Additively manufactured components
Technological Advantage
Proprietary AM processes and material systems, backed by decades of aerospace engineering, with a focus on qualifying AM for critical applications.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Leverages additive manufacturing to reduce lead times and costs for space hardware, enabling rapid iteration and lightweight structures.
How They Differentiate
As a prime defense contractor, Northrop Grumman has deep domain expertise and vertically integrated AM capabilities, enabling qualification of AM parts for mission-critical space systems.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
NASA, U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Space Force, commercial space customers
Industry Verticals
Aerospace; Defense; Space
Competitors
Lockheed Martin Space; Boeing Defense, Space & Security; SpaceX
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
More than 20 years in additive manufacturing; thousands of AM polymer parts integrated into air and space systems; up to 70% cost reduction and up to 90% lead time reduction; first metallic AM part flown on a DoD aircraft (titanium component on X-47B in 2011).
Major Milestones
Completed largest structural titanium AM demonstration with GKN Aerospace; Developed AM for spacecraft thrusters
Notable Customers
NASA; U.S. Department of Defense; U.S. Space Force; National Reconnaissance Office