Northrop Nears Completion of First Next-Generation Global Hawk

Northrop Grumman, SAN DIEGO: Northrop Grumman Corporation moved significantly closer to completing the first of its next-generation, enhanced-capability RQ-4B Global Hawk unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) due to deliveries of two critical airframe components within the last month.  
 
Vought Aircraft delivered the RQ-4B's new graphite-composite wing assembly in July. Measuring 131 feet, the wing assembly successfully completed a rigorous static test to 100 percent of its limit load, validating its structural integrity. Northrop Grumman completed integration of the wings with the fuselage in July.