Article Posted on : - Jan 19, 2015

The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye delivers long-range detection and tracking of potential threats in any weather. Photo: Northrop Grumman Corporation

REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA (BNS): The Japan Ministry of Defence has selected two Northrop Grumman Corporation systems to enhance its intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.

Under a process known as type selection, the Japanese government chose the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne early warning aircraft and the RQ-4 Global Hawk unmanned aircraft system to help maintain the country's sovereignty.

Type selection identifies the capabilities and systems to be purchased to meet specific defence requirements. Following selection, the US government will be asked to enter into the foreign military sale (FMS) process for these items, Northrop Grumman said in a statement.

"Northrop Grumman has a long history working with Japan's Air Self-Defense Force and we look forward to continuing that relationship for many years to come," said Mary Petryszyn, vice president for International, Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems.

"We are very pleased the Japan Ministry of Defense has expressed confidence in these systems and look forward to working with our U.S. military customers through the FMS process."