U.S. Navy selects Northrop Grumman to develop atom-based magnetic sensor for antisubmarine warfare

WOODLAND HILLS, Calif., 28 March 2012. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC) has been selected by the Office of Naval Research to develop a cost-effective atom-based magnetic sensor, or magnetometer, for antisubmarine warfare operations. The magnetometer will be part of a magnetic anomaly detection system mounted on helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles or submarines. Whether in the air above the ocean or underwater as part of a towed array, the magnetometer will sense disturbances in the earth's magnetic field due to metallic objects in the vicinity, which can indicate a nearby submarine. Under a three-year $1.75 million contract, Northrop Grumman is being tasked to develop a magnetometer that is smaller, lighter and more accurate than current magnetic sensor technologies. Additionally, the goal of the project is to make it more affordable and efficient.