Northrop Tackles Drone Threat with Next-Generation Technology - AiON

• Northrop Grumman is introducing a new addition to its growing counter-drone portfolio with AiON, a next-gen counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) built to detect and neutralize threats before they escalate.

The system combines artificial intelligence, modular architecture, and intuitive controls to assist operators across public safety, security, and defence missions.

Its interface features AI-assisted decision aids, helping teams spot, assess, and respond to emerging threats with greater efficiency.

Threats from swarms of drones are no longer on the horizon, they are here. With a proliferation of low-cost systems arming adversaries, U.S. warfighters, allies, and critical infrastructure are at risk.

AiON is Northrop Grumman’s pioneering, cost-effective and low-risk counter unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) command and control system.

Proven Capability

After a decisive performance during a recent live fire test, AiON successfully demonstrated various counter drone capabilities through a prototype project with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). Following this achievement, any U.S. Department of War (DoW) organization may award a follow-on production transaction for AiON without further competition.

AiON was rigorously tested at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, where it successfully demonstrated the use of advanced decision aids and full autonomous engagements.

AiON showcased its state-of-the-art technology by detecting, tracking, identifying and neutralizing both simulated and real targets during four engagements with perfect precision and efficiency.

Beyond its operational excellence, AiON proved its advanced safety features, such as friendly air track avoidance.

AiON’s command and control system also allows operators to manage multiple sites from any location. Its flexible, open architecture facilitates the integration of new application programming interfaces (API), sensors and effectors, providing unmatched agility to counter any UAS threat effectively.

“Northrop Grumman rapidly developed AiON to meet the urgent needs of the U.S. military,” said Kenn Todorov, vice president and general manager, command and control and weapons integration at Northrop Grumman. “With AiON’s strong performance at Yuma we’ve demonstrated our ability to innovate and quickly deliver proven capabilities into the hands of our warfighters.”

The Path Forward

With any DoW organization now able to award a follow-on production transaction for AiON without further competition, new possibilities are available domestically and abroad for the system.

“We see significant future opportunities to partner with other customers and allies who recognize the critical need for innovative solutions like AiON,”

Todorov said.

Source: Northrop Grumman